01/08/2026
Cooperative care and nail clinics at The Pooch Parlour
Don't just watch the video, you will get it wrong if you decided to try this on all dogs. Read below.
Every dog we see for these clinics is given a different approach. What works for one dog will not work for all. Observation of the dogs behaviour is so important. Warning stress signs like lips licking, tense body, avoidance, yawing are just to name a few. 🥱
Now, I never normally kneel on the floor, why? Because I could not move away quickly and I am right in the firing line of getting my face bitten!
So why have I put myself in this most stupid position? 🤔
Because this sensitive boy is quite worried and anxious of strangers touching her. He was too worried and could not eat any of the humongous buffet I brought to tempt him, nor play with any of my toys, but, he was interested in staying in the room this time. He's an observer and in his own time will come round with patience. So I sit still and do nothing.
I am no threat. I have no end goal to reach. I just want to earn trust. Once you've earned trust, that's your foundations right there! Honest training. I promise that dog I will not push you or force you or trick you.
Why is practicing cooperative care really important?
Because this is part of life's foundation skills. They will at some point need to be touched by a stranger- like the vet, or the groomer. 💉
What if our dogs suddenly become grumpy and shaking their head? It's important that a vet is able to examine around their head to eliminate any clinical problems like an ear infection or eye concern. Then as owners, we need to be able to apply treatment when needed too!
I bet your dogs are perfect!?
Hmmm No! I've been there with my own dogs! So I totally get it! Laying foundations for cooperative care and could easily do a full body check over, then BAM! Got an ear infection = pain= hammer time you can't touch me! Get away, stay away, I hate you! So, yep, that's life.
If you start cooperative care when there is a medical problem which needs addressing. It is harder to diagnose & treat as the dog is not willing or able to cope.
Hence, building foundations is worth its weight in gold, or in doggy biscuits for them 🐾 and hence this handsome boy found that liver pate was the best ever! Yum 😋 ❤️
