Some pets don't like being groomed. Sometimes it's just one aspect of the process, like nail trimming or brushing. Other times, the entire process is stressful to the pet. Dislike for grooming can develop from any number of factors in a dog's life: late or improper introduction to grooming as a puppy; rough or inconsiderate handling during a previous grooming experience; age or health-related pain; unidentifiable reasons only the pet may ever know, we believe that all pets can be safely handled with respect and kindness. We proudly adhere to the LIMA principle, using the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive measures available to complete necessary services. Good leadership, communication, patience, calculated procedures, and lots of treats and reward characterize a Behavior Management or Rehabilitation session at The Beauty Pawlor. Our co-owner and stylist Katelyn is also our resident behavior consultant, certified in Principles and Practice of Animal Behavior Consulting through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Blending the two disciplines creates a unique space for turning scary experiences into relaxing ones for pets with unpleasant grooming histories.  

Behavior Management

For some pets, full rehabilitation is not possible or sensible due to one or a combination of the following factors: 
•Age
•Health/physical status
•Dangerous reactivity levels
•Service needs to be administered immediately for the well-being of the pet (i.e. severely overgrown nails or heavy matting)
•Prohibitive cost 

In these cases, we combine advanced low-stress handling techniques, mindful minimal restraint, and creative grooming solutions to side-step the pet's "triggers" to  complete service as quickly and as safely as possible without crossing the pet's fear threshold. 

Behavioral Rehabilitation

Under the right conditions, many pets can learn to enjoy being groomed- again or for the first time in their lives. 

We judiciously apply the same learning principles that likely caused the issue to develop to gradually reverse it.  Replacing memories of negative experiences with memories of fun, consensual learning experiences is the simplified key to rehabilitating pets from even the most severe reactivity problems on the table. 

​Behavior Management and Rehabilitation costs $55-60 per hour and may come with a written management plan in some cases. Most sessions are limited to about 2-2.5 hours.