Grooming doesn’t have to be stressful.
And we can still make sure all our dogs needs can be met when they need them.
Using cooperative care in grooming combines the latest behavior science while making sure we see the whole picture when it comes to each individual dog.
When we have a deeper understanding of behavior and physiology, we can make choices that set dogs up for success.
Cooperative Care allows us to:
✨ Give dogs care without sacrificing other areas of their welfare
✨ Create spaces where dogs feel safe
✨ Look deeper when behavior problems happen
✨ Build trust and deeper connections with our dogs
Why Cooperative Care?
Whether you’re a pet owner or a professional, cooperative care can help grooming become less stressful, safer and more efficient. Here are just a few of the benefits!
For Dog Owners
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When you can work with your dog without stress, you’re able to provide more of the care that they need. Being able to provide essential care means less stress for you, too.
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If your dog is cooperative but you’re unsure how to provide grooming care at home safely and effectively, I’m here to help! There are so many products and tools on the market, but not all are good quality or might not be right for your dogs coat type. Knowing what tools to use and how to use them will make you more confident with their at home grooming care.
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Forcing your dog through essential care can break trust and damage your relationship. When you can listen to them by watching cues and body language and change your own behavior, they notice. Giving them choice in their care
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Knowing your dog needs their nails done but not being able to clip them can make you feel stuck. The same goes for long haired dogs who need to be brushed but can’t tolerate it. Dogs that opt into care can have their needs met and live more comfortable lives with less conflict.
For Dog Groomers
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Less stress for the dog means less stress for you and their owners. Grooms are easier to complete and owners can rest assured knowing their dogs stress levels will be monitored.
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When dogs don’t feel the need to escape or defend themselves, they’re less likely to panic. This means less risk for injuries to you and the dog.
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Injuries are expensive. Dogs who are injured at the groomer need to see a vet, and if a dog injures you, you may need to see a doctor. We can greatly reduce the risk of injury by grooming in a low stress environment. You won’t be stuck with a dog too aggressive to safely groom either. You’ll be able to expand your network to trainers and veterinarians for support. Offering specialized care -
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Create a space dogs want to be in with you. Earn their trust through agency, space and reinforcement. Owners notice when their dogs are more willing to go places, and some dogs may even start running to the door in excitement!
Client Testimonials
Groomer Highlight
Nat & Murph
I worked with Nat to help her with one of her grooming dogs, Murph, who was struggling with the clippers and other grooming procedures.
Nat’s Testimonial
“Throughout my grooming career there were countless times when I felt at a loss when dealing with dog behavioral issues that prevented me from doing my job. I had been told by some of my peers to just power through and force grooms on dogs who were struggling, but that never felt right. Still, when these problems arose, I didn’t know what to do that would actually help.
There was one specific dog I worked with who was absolutely terrified of the clippers, the dryer, and anything near his face. It was clear to me that Murph had been forced through aggressive grooming which made him fearful, and that I needed a new approach to work with him.
After reaching out to Jules for help, we met remotely and went over all of Murph’s triggers, figuring out together how to proceed. It was such a relief to have a plan backed by a Master Groomer Behavioral Specialist! After some time and patience using Jules’ strategies, and a few follow-up sessions to fine-tune our approach, I saw amazing progress. With the techniques Jules shared with me, I taught Murph a system for how to opt in or out of grooming tasks, which worked wonders in helping him feel safe enough to be groomed without shutting down. Since he got lots of rewards during our sessions, he became excited to show up at the salon, and I felt like I developed a really special bond with him.
Jules not only helped me with one struggling dog, but more importantly, taught me techniques that completely changed how I approached fearful dogs from that point on. Instead of feeling stuck, I had real tools to reach for, and that made me a better, more capable groomer.”
— Nat, Home Sweet Grooms