I'm sorry, but we will NOT be able to groom your dog

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[@rnp497]

muzzle on arrival - sounds all very Hannibal Lecter

[@suecastillo4056]

Oh as a groomer? You have NO idea!😂I’m lmao BUT… just experience!♥️she does brilliant!!!

[@boathousejoed1126]

Please....I tune in to relax not think about u know who.🤢

[@lulumoon6942]

Exactly

[@QUICKBOOKS1]

@@suecastillo4056 There is no way I would have the needed reflexes. The dog, or cat, would move a lot faster than I would. Mayonaisse, was the first video I saw.

[@ashleypagan4931]

@@boathousejoed1126what’s wrong? Not fan of “the late great Hannibal Lecter”?? 😉 😉

[@nopandakit8051]

He might be better if he had allergy meds. My dog used to chew her paws constantly. The vet prescribed allergy meds, and her skin calmed down immediately. She is so much happier.

[@ratpack0075]

You might wanna try and see if your vet will give you a prescription for pH food from Royal Canaan or Hill science diet that has no dyes in it. My poodle Shih Tzu used to chew his paws like there was no tomorrow he was on Apiquil but my vet also wanted to see it the ph food would help from Royal Canaan and it made a big difference.

[@QUICKBOOKS1]

@@ratpack0075 One of our dogs had an Allergy to Wheat, so he was put on a Special Diet. Even, "Treat Time" was complicated. There is wheat in, a;most, every Dog Food.

[@QUICKBOOKS1]

@@ratpack0075 That was back in the 90s, so, I can't remember what we did.

[@teelasmith5132]

@@ratpack0075 Agree! Apoquel and Cytopoint shot are amazing mix for allergies!

[@nopandakit8051]

@@ratpack0075 Yes. She's on Hills science diet. It makes a huge difference in her health.

[@mickithompson5888]

When I worked as a vet tech, we had a running joke that when a client came in with a Westie puppy, their “new puppy gift bag” had the contact information for the local veterinary dermatology specialist. In 20+ years of that career, I only met ONE Westie that didn’t have horrible allergies.

[@bunnyfrew]

Mine is one of the few !! Almost 15 years old and healthy (other than some old age 😅). Sooo fortunate. I had no idea 15 years ago their allergies were so common. ❤❤❤love my salty little girl

[@yeppiam]

My Westie had horrible allergies and when he was 13 years old I met another Westie owner who suggested using Original Ivory Dish soap... (her dog was perfect) I did and for the rest of his life he was so happy! His skin healed, no itching... I wish I'd had known sooner. Soapy water (not straight shampoo) and rinse well. He was almost 16 when he passed...

[@Katana1982dark]

is it a thing with this breed?

[@fluffyunicorn23]

Ex Vet nurse here (What Australians call a vet tech) Every Westie that came in had yeast infection, Ear infections, dermatitis or all 3.

[@mickithompson5888]

@@Katana1982dark Its really common.

[@lovemusic1963ify]

My folks had a Westie. I would stay with her when they would go out of town. I would take her for walks around the neighborhood. Several times I would hear from a distance "Hi Angel".... walk some more..." Hi Angel" ...........walk some more "Bob, it's Angel, come out and say hi to her"... on and on. It was like I was walking a celebrity. It's been 20 years and my dad still talks so fondly about her.

[@rubybuttons668]

Hi from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿. Westies are notorious here for hating being groomed. They are feisty wee critters but such great dogs. 😊

[@suecastillo4056]

Add Scotties onto that list! I love them but…😵‍💫🥰

[@The_momur]

I love Westies.

[@ronellepatterson4176]

🤔Why did I hear your accent while reading your comment 🤭🤗

[@Daniel-rd6st]

We had 2 of them and i agree, they hate especially the brush (mostly in the face because it pulls their whiskers i assume). Our late Westies defense mechanism vs the brush was sneezing into his moms direction when she tried to brush him :p

[@PamJacksom-xq5rx]

Scotland, impressive.

[@karenbrauneis4290]

Personally, I think there are several factors as to why Vanessa has success with these difficult to groom dogs. The love, care, respect and compassion she shows towards these animals is wonderful. Her first priority is for the safety and wellbeing of the animals. The fact that she is able to groom in an isolated environment without all the other noises and distractions found in grooming salon goes a long way towards the comfort of these nervous and often physically challenged dogs. Bless you and thank you for all the incredible work that you do.

[@TheBaumcm]

Dogs are also, like children, great at reading human body language and emotion, both by tension and smell. If the groomer is relaxed and shows no fear of them but also that they are going to be no nonsense without being aggressive, most dogs will behave.

[@nylabo]

I totally agree, the space is quiet and peaceful and she is so calm & confident and takes her time.

[@mojo4849]

I noticed, particularly in this groom, that Vanessa has a very delicate touch when needed. Beautiful to see.

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

I think so, too. Dogs, unless completely unhinged by fear in the moment, are generally very good at reading people and their intentions. She has perfected her touch, too. Gentle but not tentative and firm enough to inspire confidence. It's clear she has a plan and knows what's she doing which helps dogs relax in the feeling of safety. She just communicates nonverbally that her intention is to do what needs to be done *for them* with an encouraging and familiar "good boy" tossed in here and there.

[@mimsredjelly]

I never thought about it that way before but the fact that she only ever has one animal or family group in the salon at a time is probably a huge factor in keeping the problematic ones calm.

[@susanpallister8037]

Vanessa is so great at her job because of her adaptability. The dog doesn't like one thing? Vanessa pivots, changes tactics/equipment and gets the step done with little stress to the dog. That is an artist and a successful groomer. Well done, Vanessa. Always a pleasure watching you groom.

[@ThatOneWeirdGal]

You could tell he really did not want to bite you and he was trying very hard to be a good boy despite his anxiety.

[@emyra_3293]

as someone who is allergic to outside, especially in the spring, I can understand why he’d be cranky. allergies suck xD

[@marysmith2060]

Oh, yes. Even with meds high pollen days, I try to limit my time outside.

[@Starvingmetheartist]

As a fellow human with an allergy to the color green, can concur. Also having an allergic reaction to stress (that was a fun doctor visit, trying to figure out why I was suddenly getting hives all over) can be super miserable on top of it!

[@silentlyjudgingyou]

Same

[@UmmmmmmmWhat]

Two words... photic sneezing. I literally sneeze my butt off every time i go in the sun. It can even be kinda cloudy, still often bright enough to trigger it.

[@kaceykennedy5499]

My fiance knows how you feel, he's really miserable when pollen count is high

[@melissawilcox5285]

I inherited a 6 year old Westie last year. His skin was a mess. After a year of allergy shots, and still having issues, we put him on a fish/bug diet. No more beef, pork,chicken, or corn. He wasn’t happy about giving up his beef chews, but after being on this diet he is now completely off of his allergy medication and his licking has stopped. He also lets me groom him without hesitation. He’s a really good dog!☺️

[@ellenrussell5391]

Bugs ?? What kind are they ?? 🦗🐾

[@ferretyluv]

@@ellenrussell5391Probably crickets and meal worms. You can get them at some organic grocery stores.

[@kristinjacobsen3417]

Bugs?

[@llook1570]

Probably crickets. Jiminys is a well known brand. Mealworms, maybe, too. Mealworms are bird feeder food, so readily available.

Have also experienced this improvement through diet with a german shepherd who could not stop biting and gnawing his backside and had bald and sore spots. Changed diet to boiled fish - that proved to be his ticket towards a full and shiny coat. No more gnawing & biting other than bones.

[@elizabethannegrey6285]

Considering his sensitive skin and experience at other salons, this doggie is SUCH a good boy - and of course Vanessa is pure genius!❤️🐶❤️

[@timeforanap4268]

Saying that my westie was difficult to groom is an understatement. I think a groomer was rough with him (long story, but I didn't witness it) when he was about a year old, and he was a different dog after that day. I've always felt guilty for taking him to her, but the comments under this video are helping me forgive myself a little. It's nice to know that I'm not the only one who had trouble.

[@stevencorey7702]

Doogie: "Yeah... I've brought many a groomer to tears. I'm a career ender." 🤨

[@sharlharmakhis280]

Vanessa: "Bet."

[@Kags]

For a muzzled grumpasaurus he was a remarkably good boy

[@margaretthatcher6828]

Yes he was. I don't think much of the owner letting his nails go that long!

[@darrylsheffield7102]

He was on that good shit! 😂😂😂

[@jessicamacaulay7462]

​@@margaretthatcher6828 We don't know what the situation might be

[@nova4005]

😄grumpasaurus, I like that.

[@blacksorrento4719]

We had a cross Westie/Maltese. He displayed everything that Dougie did. I was smiling, you are patience personified with lots of reassuring “good boy” in a calming tone. Ours was on allergy tablets, licked his paws constantly. He was feisty. No groomer would touch him, so I had to invest in a Wahl clipper some decent scissors and do him myself. This we managed, we got along quite well, up to a point, but it had to be done in stages. I divided his body into quarters, and then did his head. Including the wash, it took almost a week to groom him. Didn’t like his paws or butt being touched. He wouldn’t have won any dog shows, we came to a compromise, each of us understood. Other than that he was a good dog. I miss him, he passed to doggie heaven 12 Jan this year. Watching you groom Dougie brought back so many memories, even to the gold in his coat along his back. I wish your videos had been around earlier, I could have learned so much, instead it was definitely through trial and error. 😊

[@amandacarter7740]

A TIP FOR LICKING PAWS..an old vet gave me this advice for my yorkie betty boop who drove me nuts licking her paws..he said all the meds do is stop the licking for a time but as meds come out of system they start licking again so back for repeat prescriptions.... He said feed her the yoke of egg twice a week (Dont give the white part though) and the good bacteria it puts into guts stop the allegies forming that makes them lick paws. Shes now 9 and over the years whenever ive forgotten or not done it for a while then the licking comes back! Its just a healthier way of prevention than being on allergy meds for life .hope this helps someone as this advice was a God send to me !

[@terry7907]

Vanessa “We will not be able to groom your dog” Later (also Vanessa) “ Except I am super groomer and can do anything!”

[@dr.jamesdenton3051]

simp much?

[@benjamingardner3314]

​@@dr.jamesdenton3051 💯 she's an incredible groomer who gives everything to her cause. I hope to be half as good at my job as she is at hers. We stan our groomer!

[@bammythegreat]

@@dr.jamesdenton3051 you have never felt the touch of a woman

[@wallysullivan9315]

​@@dr.jamesdenton3051Watch the damn video and you'll realize OP is making a joke based on the title. Projecting much?

[@jessiepooch]

@dr Clown much?

[@chiron591]

A lady that i used to clean house for had a Westie. Very sweet dog, she said it cost her a fortune to figure out what was wrong with his skin and digestion issues. Turns out the dog was gluten intolerant. After changing his diet to raw food, he became very sweet and his skin and digestive issue went away. Its was very similar to me, as i too am gluten intolerant. When stopping gluten i felt better and all other issue went away. May this poor guy is the same.

[@grannyweatherwax9666]

My westie was gluten intolerant too. It got less as she got older though.

[@jrm2716]

My Yorkie had a bad skin problem. Turned out she was allergic to wheat. Change in diet helped a lot.

[@luvondarox]

Our otterhound mix was allergic to wheat / gluten, too, especially as she got older. Trying to find a kibble for her that _didn't_ have wheat or corn as the first ingredient back in the 00s was a heck of a challenge, but she got to enjoy a wide variety of flavors due to the "If we're gonna track it down, we're at least gonna make it interesting" mindset I got as a teen. I used my money from working as a Spoil the Pup fund and would take her with me to stores to pick out new kibble to try. Her allergies cleared up almost immediately after stopping with the Wheat Filler Kibbles, and she loved the variety. She actually had a favorite after a while and would put her paw on the bag to let me know that's what she wanted.

[@maryschade1906]

No reason to feed dogs breads grains.

[@Wisepati]

That makes sense. Dogs digestive systems weren't set up originally to eat grain. I think the only reason they do is because they have been so long associated with humans. But they have no amylase in their saliva which is what starts the digestion of carbohydrates. My dogs do very well on a grain-free diet.

[@therexbellator]

Vanessa does some amazing work even on the most troubled pets. Thank you for being so kind and gentle Vanessa, we could all learn something from you 😭

[@michellegarry1872]

I’m retired from grooming now and it’s dealing with owners like this one that makes me so happy to be done. “Not too short” meanwhile it’s matted or hates to be brushed. “Leave his face fluffy” meanwhile it’s nearly impossible to brush the face. Oh, I could go on and on. You’re a terrific groomer. What an asset to our profession you are.

[@mspears_bobobuddytheseniorcat]

My West Highland Terrier, Westley, lived 2 months shy of 19 years old and passed away in my arms at home. He was the most sweet intelligent well mannered dog and miss him every day! 🐶🕊️❤️

[@mariafentis]

RIP Westley... Miss mine alot too , they are lovebugs!

[@mspears_bobobuddytheseniorcat]

@@mariafentis Thank you so much! They are definitely love bugs! What was yours named? I forgot to mention Westley went to the same amazing groomer his whole life and loved going! He always happily went with a wagging tail! They loved our sweet Westley boy as much as he loved them!

[@AP-ds9pj]

This made me cry, I hope my Westie gets to live so long with me! They are wonderful parts of the family and we love them so dearly

[@mspears_bobobuddytheseniorcat]

@@AP-ds9pj Oh hon! I’m sorry to make you cry but totally get it! I hope your sweet Westie has an extra long beautiful life with you! They are definitely family forevermore! I always imagine when I pass, one of the first things I will see is him and all my loving creatures running towards me and knocking me over with licks, cuddles, hugs and purrs! 😇🐶😻🐰 P.S. Westley spent the first 2 years of his life around cats and didn’t bark, but made a noise unlike anything I’ve ever heard still to this day which we called his “musical happy growl!” He definitely was trying to make a purr noise and only did it when he was happy and playful! There’s so many more unique things of memories with him! He passed many years ago now, but I still feel his sweet soul and our family talks about him all the time! 🙏🐾❤️

[@timeforanap4268]

I'm happy that you got to have Westley with you for so long. I lost Eddie just before his 13th birthday. He's been gone for a few years, so I kind of even miss the ridiculousness of having to wrestle a 17lb dog into a muzzle to get him groomed.

[@pamelamays4186]

It's great that his owners haven't given up on him.

[@natashacotroneo2007]

We never will!

[@madeemad8968]

@@natashacotroneo2007 He is a handsome boy, God bless! Mine is good with the groomers and good with baths at home but not with nail clipping at home. I love his spicy self so much though!

[@AyanneCZ]

@@natashacotroneo2007 I noticed your comment here after I asked the question above. Can I ask what sedatives he takes and whether you really see a difference? My little boy seems to be resistant to Zylkene. Thank you and give your beautiful boy a belly rub for me.

[@robinenbernhard]

​@@natashacotroneo2007good ❤

[@reinadeelsur]

​@AyanneCZ my dog was prescribed 2 different medications one was Trazodone 100mg and Gabapentin 100mg. I was advised by the groomer to give the medication 1 hr before the appointment even with the medication given as prescribed by the vet he was still not a happy boy.😅

[@tinam7011]

Vanessa I know he’s on a sedative but Omgoodness what a sweet boy. My heart went out. To him when you clipped his nails with his crying. You are so good with him. And so patent ❤️. He looks so good 🥰

[@Sassy33]

Perfect carrot tail. So sad about the poor fellow’s allergies. Vanessa you did a superb job. Terriers are never easy.

[@liukin95]

I'm a proud Westie owner! Sadly this breed is very prone to allergies and skin conditions, my first one was on medication for his skin for most of his life.

[@maih600]

Grew up with a westie, she had a lot of food issues that led to the same type of skin issues as Doogie here. We tried a bunch of foods and meds, then ended up with some basic brand with no wheat that cleared it all up.

[@mmmangel1985]

Grew up with a Westie. It’s a terrier thing. I had a pitbull (and have one now), and they are allergy crazy too.

[@TheBaumcm]

@@mmmangel1985I think it’s more a breeding thing.

[@cjseckinger8796]

My present Westie (a rescue) has IBS! She’s on daily steroid pills, Propalin liquid and gets B12 shots once a month. Her diet is the strictest I have ever had for one of my dogs - no fat diet and absolutely no people food.

[@annielewis4342]

My mum is a vet and she said the only westies she saw without skin issues were those who lived on farms! With loads of dogs, in the mud and out all day... Interesting

[@Knorrette]

My dad used to have a Westie called 'Quincy’. When he took Quincy for walks and stopped for a coffee elderly ladies would come up to have a chat. That dog was a real ladies' magnet!

[@emilyfeagin2673]

I’m sure you Dad was charming too. Dog owners usually are

[@Knorrette]

@@emilyfeagin2673 Thank you. He was - especially to those elderly ladies. ;)

[@TheCelestialhealer]

❤

[@MarshaPrice-ss7vt]

My ex husband used to love to take my westie for walks. A real chick magnet.....

[@cbrown6508]

Quincy is the perfect name for a Westie! so cute 😊

[@deborahlynn4439]

Aww - that cutie was so well behaved, and seemed to enjoy his bath! The sedative really helped with his anxiety, and he looks beautiful!❤

[@kathrynseaman6482]

I have a soft spot for these little guys! You are so gentle with him building his trust even though he didn't like grooming his face.

[@annmariesloan8406]

When you were rubbing his back during his bath. His one leg started doing the oooh I like this shake❤

[@TheShadowChesireCat]

I feel you, Doogie. If a hairdresser kept poking me in my ezcema or reoccuring dermatitis issues, I'd try to bite them too.

[@silentlyjudgingyou]

Yup agreed

[@mariafentis]

@@silentlyjudgingyou Our pets do suffer, I had to home cook for mine...very little kibble...but they did well ,so easy to love , they entertain us too!

[@silentlyjudgingyou]

@@mariafentis For mine it turned out to be seasonal, the meds barely seemed to help so she had to spend that time of year in a cone to stop things getting worse

[@BewareTheLilyOfTheValley]

Sadly, he can't groome himself, so while likely painful, his skin needs to be cleaned. But yes, when you don't feel well, you tend to be a lot more short-tempered (though I work in customer service, so I always try to be mindful that people are just trying to help me and me being unwell still isn't an excuse to be rude to people).

[@sassyfrass4295]

@@mariafentis yep, a lot of these issues come from the commercial food - then parasites and often the meds. . old enough to remember when pets didn't have all these issues.

[@LBehold]

Good job! So kind. His cries and shaking were heart breaking though. He’s a real cutie and very sweet.

[@elainestorberg1737]

I love your "unflappability." I learn something from each of your videos. Some might think grooming is just for looks, but it's so often for the health of the dog. I find it so satisfying to watch you clip the dogs' nails. My dogs won't let me do their nails, so I have a traveling vet tech come to my home and do their nails for me. She's wonderful, and she watches your videos, too!

[@Khalexnet]

My parents had to put down their 16 year old Westie a couple of years ago. For most of her life, she had a really lovely beautiful white coat that didn't show the characteristic tan stripe down the back, and very few issues with allergies except for inside her ears. She would get yeast infections in her ears almost constantly until we switched her to a brand of dog food that didn't contain any brewer's yeast (a common filler ingredient in dry food). As she got older, though, her skin definitely flared up-her whole belly turned black just like how Doogie's is in this video and she would lick her paws raw. She also started having vision and incontinence issues and the doggie equivalent of Sundowners (likely due to the vision loss). Eventually, my parents decided that the kindest thing they could do was to let her go. She had lived a full and beautiful life, and even outlived her sister by several years. I love you my sweet Lilly-bug, and I know you're waiting OTRB for us.

[@Blood_Cult_]

I'm so sorry for your loss. May Lilly rest in peace

[@WindsofChange]

Food will do that. I have a rotty that one time when he was younger got an ear infection that would not stop. They treated him with the time release med in his ear three different times. At the time of the third treatment I ran out of the bargain brand turkey cat food I had been putting a spoon of in his food to add flavor. The second that I quit feeding him that he cleared RIGHT up....never to have another "ear infection". It was never an infection, it was allergy to something in that cat food. Never fed him that again, of course. So I'd say on a dog that is constantly having "ear infections" that maybe it isn't infection and may very well be an allergy. You just gotta figure out what the thing is that they are allergic too by taking ingredients away. I'd start by googling the top things that dogs tend to be allergic to and go from there. Try 5-10 lb bags of different foods and watch the ears carefully for the reaction. Saves on waste. Once you know what works, then you can get any size you need.

[@TheBaumcm]

Always a tough decision but that is the job when you take on responsibility for a life. Our lab had issues because she had grass and seasonal allergies (and insisted on eating grass like a cow😂). It made her paws and ears itchy so she would lick her paws making them yeasty (yep, that brewer’s yeast is in everything) and then she would scratch her ears transferring it and getting infections. We used Benadryl for the environmental allergens, wiped her paws regularly and treated them with ketoconazole periodically, and never had to worry about an ear infection again.

[@Ro.Mother-of-Pearl]

His groom looks amazing! I'm sure the owner had happy tears when they saw what a great job you did. I don't know his back story so I have nothing to say about his diet or allergies. His owner loves him so I have to believe that they have tried everything they possible can to ease his discomfort. So good on them for continuing to have their baby groomed and not trying to do it themselves. That's how pets get harmed.

[@natashacotroneo2007]

We have and are still trying everything we can for him. We’ve only had him for one year. We love him more than anything!

[@MaryWehmeier]

@@natashacotroneo2007oh my… he’s actually pretty wonderful boy. I have two and we quickly learned, Get his allergies under control and I think he will calm down in the grooming.

[@junoantaresofficial]

​@@natashacotroneo2007 you're doing great, there's a lot of people on here with scrappy advice, but there's a couple with maybe some things you could bring up at your next vet visit to see if they think it would be good to try. I hope you all are able to figure out the allergy stuff, poor itchy boy, and poor you guys it must be hard to see your little one uncomfortable.

[@byrnep100]

My Cairn Terrier is a love. He is hand stripped, teeth are brushed, whiskers trimmed, and nails are Dremeled. He has never given me a problem. Sometimes, he will cut a fart or two when I am working on his back end. No skin allergies. Wonderful dog!

[@chrisstewart5992]

What’s yur point?

[@lesterine77]

How is this relevant? Good for you. I guess.

[@savvystarfire6667]

They're just sharing a nice thing about their dog, why everyone so mean? Sheesh

[@BellaRainDrops]

What a beautiful boy, you did wonderfully with him.

[@ice999999c]

Girl ...... I was so stressed the entire cut, happy he wasn't as bad as I thought

A very compelling and even moving process to watch indeed.

[@babybluecheeks]

I keep thinking how chill he is, but then remembered he has been sedated.

[@sarahjaynedavies4162]

It's wrong! 😢😢

[@babybluecheeks]

@@sarahjaynedavies4162 no it's not.

[@SAdams1996]

@@sarahjaynedavies4162it’s the humane thing to do. Grooming improves the overall health and quality of life in dogs. However for dogs that are overly anxious or aggressive, sedation is the only way to ensure they are regularly groomed. Many sedatives also work similarly to anti-anxiety medications,so sedating them means they’ll be less stressed at the groomers too!

[@Moon17ob]

@@sarahjaynedavies4162dogs have to be groomed lest they get matting. Matting hurts. Sedation is given to the owners by there vet. This dog would have a much lower quality of life in the long term if he’s not groomed

[@Mark-ke1rj]

@@sarahjaynedavies4162 no it isn't.

[@goodgollymissmolly7624]

those whines and yips while you were doing his paws sounded soooo sleepy! he may have been spicy for previous grooms, but he was downright adorable for this one!

[@kristinb6500]

He is definitely as good as he is, and you are always so patient with him so that helps

[@sikejae]

Your hands are magic, the way you get these type of dogs to look even remotely good at the end is insane 😂

[@Dice-Z]

The real magic is that you can tell she knows how to handle them in a way that makes them feel safe, she knows exactly where to touch and not touch to not set them off and to calm them down.

[@sassyfrass4295]

@@Dice-Z Highly skilled and Talented for sure.

[@sikejae]

@@Dice-Zabsolutely! And I love that about her

[@leannecanty8821]

We had a Westie with severe allergies. We switched to Ripley's Ranch dog food. It was a lifesaver! It's made in Canada too. I Highly recommend it. (No, I have no connection to the company, except being extremely grateful.)

[@dmat7148]

You did such a wonderful job with him, being so kind and patient!

[@hpau87]

I bet that felt SO good on his itchy skin. My pittie mix has some mild allergies and his dry skin is usually kept in check with salmon oil on his food. But when his allergies are bad, he gets cytopoint injections at the vet and they make a HUGE difference. It only lasts 1-2 months and is a bit expensive, but my pet insurance pays for it and I’d definitely recommend it for allergy season

[@YEALANDS2024]

I have the same issue with my pittie mix and use cytopoint. I find that keeping on top of flea and mite treatment has pushed the need for the cytopoint out further. I also give her a daily antihistamine with her hyper allogenic dog roll which I cover in olive oil. Alos every walk she takes I bath her with an oatmeal wash. Her coat is beautiful and soft now. Her skin was terrible before I got it sorted.

[@morningdove2438]

Hanging there thinking of his defeat, the humility.

[@Jomi91]

Had two Westies growing up, one after the other. Neither liked being groomed. Great dogs though, lots of character and also independant.

[@mmmangel1985]

Had a Westie growing up. She didn’t care when I would hand strip her. We got her used to grooming from the start. Only time I saw her get crazy was when the ducks were in the yard or we were spraying the hose. She chased the ducks and loved playing in the hose.

[@beautylalala007]

I love watching your videos. Your patience and calm is always heartwarming. 🥰

[@angelahagood3639]

Vanessa you are the champion of awesome groomers for those dogs that are challenging! Doggie did great considering his health issues. I learn so much about each breed that you groom. He’s quite the handsome little man! I’m sure he felt much better than when he arrived! I bet his owner couldn’t believe you finished him unmuzzled! 🐶💕🙌🏻

[@nrgltwrkr2225]

Poor baby! If I had really bad skin allergies and ingrowing toenails, I might be cranky for a groom too! You did a wonderful job. You were so gentle and encouraging with him, and that really helped. (so did the meds 😉). You made it a very good experience for him. 💜

[@-Down-D-Stairs-]

He's freaking adorable though I'll give him that

[@ElleBrOw]

yessss he is 💞

[@suzannerust8658]

Totally adorable 😍

[@_MORGANIME_]

He really is 😭 sweet mashed potato baby

[@MeaghanCates]

Him in that harness “yup, thats me you’re probably wondering how I got herel

[@lovefortruth3414]

I think you just have that certain something in your energy that thd most difficult fur kids respond to. Even though he was still stressed and resistant whole sedated, he probably would not have cooperated nearly as much with other groomers. You did an amazing job! I'm akways at awe with how you are with them! ❤

[@TheBaumcm]

They are definitely great at reading who is a pushover or who they can play and who is going to be firm but fair. My own little guy has no issue being dropped at the groomers when I or my MIL do it but if my husband or his father go, it is a full on tantrum and fit. They can read anxiety in tension and smell so if you are calm, they will be.

[@lovefortruth3414]

@TheBaumcm absolutely! Still, even with that I'm mind, there is still akways that one person...example..my hubbyvand I are both calm, gentle, but also firm with his dog and our cats. Yet, there are times when the dog prefers to snuggle with me iver him and vice versa. And, the cats gravitate towards me like flies to fly paper lol.

[@Floof_on_pawzzz]

Gosh.. Uh oh I mean every pup deserves to get spoiled and feel clean but I hope the pup can feel better one day

[@lisawhereisthecultjam]

I don’t think any dog getting groomed feels like it is being spoiled.

[@ScarletAngleGaara]

@@lisawhereisthecultjamThere are some that do enjoy it but it depends. Some like it, some hate it, and some just tolerate it. Every dog is different.

[@CherieDono]

Awesome job and video Vanessa. I was in tears and just loved how you helped him through his nail clipping. He really trusted you all the way!! ❤

[@NanceJ47]

I am always impressed that you are so patient and always looking out for not making the grooming a terrible experience.Good job always!

[@jackieorchard8181]

noticed Dougie's skin was very black, when my westies skin went like that it was because he was diabetic, he too had sores on his skin, testing him woudn't hurt

[@jackieorchard8181]

I went to 4 vets, paid loads on money for creams and medication for him that didn’t work. It wasn’t until my 5th vet took one look at him, said he was diabetic, tested his sugar levels, took some bloods and gave him his first insulin, he was a changed dog overnight, and his skin was pink again in no time at all

[@natashacotroneo2007]

This is helpful thank you from Doogie’s owner!

[@chrisstewart5992]

Pretty sure this girl knows

[@alexcootieart2210]

Loved my first Westie so much (I was 18) that I named my 2nd child after him!! Well, not his entire name. The dog's name was Alexander Graham Cootie 😊 my son is Alexander as well. Rescude many of them in FL, they tend to have more skin issues in that climate, in my experience.

[@jackieorchard8181]

@@orangebell2323 I suppose every dog is different, I’m glad your on top of your dog’s skin. my boy was 10 years old before his tummy turned black for the first time and his problems began. The sad thing about it is, it was a simple urine test, which four other vets could have done, but didn’t, while they got money for creams, shampoos and medication, not to mention the cost of just walking through their door. All that suffering they put him through, just to make money, either that or they weren’t really vets at all! The change in him after one jab was unbelievable, he was like a puppy again, running around, play with our other dogs, really enjoying life once more.

[@Hi_Im_Akward]

I've also groomed dogs that were really good with a muzzle on and were terrors with it off, so it's possible that helped calm him down. Not every dog reacts that way but I've had dogs that were muzzle on arrival, tried w/o because they were being really good and regretted it.

[@grannyweatherwax9666]

Yes, the muzzle can almost be a safety blanket for some dogs.

[@savvvysavvv1934]

Unless you talked to the owner you should never take a muzzle off no matter how friendly the dog seemed

[@luvondarox]

​@@savvvysavvv1934 But... you still have to wash and groom the face. 🤨

[@croissant912]

Loved your warmth and thoughtfulnes --- and so did the little dog I think!🥰👏

[@ViaAngeles-ve5uj]

Dougie is a sweetie and you, Vanessa, are magic! You're so calm & kind, I'm sure the doggies respond to that.

[@alifeintransition9782]

I like it when you help out dogs like this one. Ones that are difficult, no groomer would get near. His groom is better with you than with anyone else because I truly believes no one cares about these dogs like you do! Have a good weekend!

[@chrispat7]

I was just thinking after watching your last video that you haven't had any Westies on. Was about to volunteer mine! Our Westie is allergic to all feathered animals, can only eat raw pork and fish without getting a yeast outbreak. If the owners are reading, I would suggest they try a yeast infection cream like Canesten on the tail and bum area, that really helped us to get the redness and irritation down. We also did a round of Cytopoint which we didn't want to but in the end i think that was what got it gone for good. We use Chlorhexidine shampoo as well. Hope this helps!

[@Cloverkitty]

Boosting this comment so it's hopefully seen.

[@mt8795]

I use malaseb shampoo and washbar for dogs bathe him 2 times a week give my dog Kril oil every day and Benadryl and cbd drops for dogs and vitamine called efaskin put Vaseline on the paws to help with the itch give fresh horse meat to eat he is doing much better cytopoint and apoquel did nothing for our dog had many side effects some days I do have to give prednisone but only a small amount to keep the balance maybe it’s helpful for someone our dog was almost bald and had large spots he was really suffering and I tried all sorts all are gone now but you have to be on top of it you can also give the trias drops they are homeopathic drops that help really well as a seasonal treatment

[@Star-kj1zb]

So sweet You speak in a very reassuring calm way that I’m sure Dougie responded to :)

[@bridget1780]

You're doing a great job with him. He's lucky to have you groom him.

[@vitalucas9452]

Well GWTD. You go places successfully where others would not dare❣️😻 You are brave and you have mad skills with dogs.

[@dovie2blue]

He looks so fine when you start. Sneaky devil. Edit: He needs a different diet

[@NJ-Cathie]

Agreed: Science Diet I/D

[@dovie2blue]

@@NJ-CathieRaw. Meat bone organ

[@InJeffable]

I think health issues with dogs (or any pets really) come down to what they're eating. When I was a kid, my mom and I sadly learned that too late with my dog. My mom was buying conventional dog food for him and he ended up with a degenerative back condition that eventually paralyzed his hind legs and had him in constant pain (at which point he had to be put down in order to end his suffering).

[@Blanschee]

​@@dovie2bluecan't just say that. The question is what allergies has the dog. As an owner of an high allergic dog, skin conditions are not foodissues exclusive. Tbh to get the point where your allergic dog is in a good, healthy place can take years (we needed 3) and how often some idiot with no knowledge and backgroundinfo felt the need to step forward and tell me I have to change the diet of my dog...just shut up.

[@vitalucas9452]

I used to believe food was the issue to yeast problems. I listened to what my friend's vet said and applied it to my own dog. It's an external issue. Not related to diet, sugars, wheat etc.

[@kevinkocher9347]

I love that you are trying so hard to help Mr doogie

[@TheTropicalsummer]

The dog looks lovely and you are so kind and gentle with him I think he appreciates you greatly for that and we love to see your work

[@WestieRescueMom]

[@ferretyluv]

Relevant username.

[@junoantaresofficial]

Westitude! I love it 😂

[@bunnyfrew]

Westitude !!! 😂😂😂😂❤❤❤ love them and their sass.

[@tamalaglenn7054]

That is the perfect description, Westitude! I have a 16 yr Westie and she runs the house.

[@fidgetshouse]

I think your calm and loving demeanor helps dogs like him. Maybe a few more visits with you, and he will start to trust the process. I love watching you take care of these difficult dogs. I had an Eskie that would not let me brush her, but she was fine with the groomer. I am certain she was picking up on my emotions. Good job Vanessa, always.

[@Dice-Z]

They definitely do react a lot to your demeanor. Cats are especially receptives to the energy their favorite person is putting out. I know they are extremely observant and like to watch things to learn them. That's how some cats including mine learned what a door knob is and that you have to do something with it to open doors, without being taught. Also something worth noting for both cats and dogs, is that when at a groomer or vet, they are in an unfamiliar environment with an unfamiliar person and are more likely to be anxious, so if they have a freeze response, they are much more likely to display it. Which ironically can end up making them more docile whereas they'd have no issue rebelling in their home.

[@KimmersR-og3ex]

You are amazing❤❤❤❤❤❤ You never give up on any animal that comes to you. Much respect….

[@annettejones4902]

Reminds me of my Cairn lulu who had to put down just shy of 16. She was blind, half deaf and had bad arthritis and skin issues. She hated having her feet touched by me but the groomer could do it. God how i miss my girl. My husband was so heartbroken it was awfully sad. Westies are in the same family as cairns. Non grain foods did wonders with Lulu's skin itching. She loved being clean and kicked up her heels after bathing.

[@cherrymccall4806]

😢❤

[@LivinInSim]

Doogie! You were the bestest boy! The folks will be so proud.

[@Catwrangler1953]

Poor boy. My collie mix suffered from allergies. My schnauzer is at the groomers now. She loves going.

[@gh00stie62]

We used to have a shepherd collie mix that had terrible summer allergies. We would give her benadryl and shave her down to her undercoat. She looked like a little doe and it did wonders for her skin.

[@whosyourhoney-bl8vt]

You are a fantastic groomer! Doogie looks great and for the most part was a dream dog to work on. I credit that with your gentle handling and sweet voice for keeping him calm. I'm sure the sedatives helped but don't sell yourself short, you did a wonderful job!

[@jeannine8400]

I just love the way you are with your animals that you groom. You tell them when they are a good boy or a good girl. And you're petting them and talking to them.

[@Notimportant1995]

Definately related to the Scottish Terrier. Our Scottie is the most wonderful psycho.

[@liukin95]

They are. Both the Westie and the Scottie actually come from Cairn Terriers!

[@Warren-go5ij]

!!! 🤣🤣🤣

[@109367]

I think I read once that a long time ago occasionally Scotties would be born white, some people decided to start breeding white Scotties and eventually they became the Westies, if I am remembering that correctly lol

[@annabelcookson9488]

@@109367 it was the Cairn Terrier :)

[@RebeccaGogovcev]

​@@liukin95 i have two cairn terriers. The best dog ever.

[@adelaidereading]

Doogie the doggie wants no groomie. If you do the groomie, you get the sharp end of the snootie and he ducks out with the zoomies.

[@pattyconley4096]

😂😂 sharp end of the snootie.😅

[@Soldier4USA2005]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@1GoodWoman]

Ahhhh a poochpoet!

[@hubbival7325]

😂😂😂

[@CatherinePerkins-nl4cg]

lol….

[@trishlangford5773]

Brilliant job Vanessa. The sedative obviously helped with his anxieties. Dear little soul.. You always succeed where others have failed. 😊😊😊❤❤❤

[@peacetrain3333]

Nice job! He liked your sure manner & when you called him “good boy”❤️

[@Frenchaboo]

Westies are notorious for being allergic to pretty much everything, but especially food. I've heard the tales of many owners who can't feed their Westies chicken at all, they tend to do better with high quality meats like venison.

[@themermaidstale5008]

I wonder if it’s the steroids in the chicken.

[@melissaharris3389]

Lots of pets are intolerant to chicken byproducts in commercial pet food. The other common culprit is gluten.

[@finnthewestiefinnmccool5916]

My westie is allergic to grass and sticky weed. He’s on non steroid antihistamines and he’s much better now but his paws are still sensitive, itchy and has crusty bald spots

[@axelpriam7843]

It's physically impossible to be allergic to chicken. Chichken protéine and fat are hypoallergenic. However, it's completely possible to be allergic to the antibiotic, steroides and food preserver that you can find in American industrial chicken.

[@JBOD]

My cat became allergic to chicken after many years. Her wet food is now strictly lamb and her dry food is a limited ingredient diet of venison and green peas. Her puking and digestive issues have subsided due to the food change. But there's something else she is allergic too but the vet thinks it's regular allergies to dust etc. So she is on a daily allergy med but she's still scratching and overgrooming so I have to figure out what's causing it. I'm trying to keep my place dust free, got air purifiers, her litter is unscented. I got rid of any room air freshener plug ins, candles etc. But she still has the issue. Hopefully we can figure it out soon. I feel so bad for her. I have allergies etc so I know how much it sucks.

[@julinelson1775]

I really think that so many of these "difficult" dogs are triggered by a large noisy grooming salon.

[@sarahjane4908]

I wonder if any pet groomers will do in-home grooming

[@fredeagle3912]

Heavy curtains to absorb the echoing noise. Rubber mats (magnetic fixing) cladding in the metal wet cubicle to stop the drumming sound. A long extension nozzle on the blow drier to keep the motor noise well away and isolated. A foot switch can turn if of and on. Just some thoughts off the top of my head to keep the noise down. A small investment perhaps.

[@1packatak]

Lack of exposure to the sounds and handling as a young pup. People don’t realize how important it is to get a pup used to being groomed. Many pups protest brushing, nails,ear cleaning, etc and the owner gives up. Which creates a vicious cycle of reactivity.

[@arribaficationwineho32]

Or bad experiences with impatient groomers

[@1packatak]

@@arribaficationwineho32 it can be. That’s why you need to screen your groomer just like you screen your vet.

[@maryzulick9369]

My Westie lived to the age of 15.5 years and he loved getting groomed! I have to say you did a great job with this Westie. Using your soft and caring sweet voice trying to keep him calm definitely helps plus your patience! Enjoyed watching!

[@mezzouille]

I love both your channels. You're such a wonderful person. So loving and caring. I'm sure you've inspired many to go in your line of work !! As for westies... My very dear westie (very much missed) used to love when we washed her... she liked the blow-drying too... She was so fluffy then... after we let her on the carpet when she finished the drying herself :D A real sweetheart.

[@Algo1]

I've had a Westy, a Cairn and now have a Skye, so basically the Trifecta of Scottish terriers. Such sweet creatures, until you approach their paws, or a mat.

[@tinahickman6300]

From the comment section it looks like a lot of people have experience with Westies and their allergies. Definitely information like that would be helpful to the owners of these little guys so they might have a better idea how to control their itching skin. We all have had allergic reactions bug bites poison ivy experience can you imagine what it would be like itching like that everyday for a little guy that doesn't understand? Poor babies

[@janicemacmillan2610]

There are Westie groups on Facebook that just cover the allergies and skin problems. My westie had beautiful skin, we only bathed her 4 times a year

[@ferretyluv]

Fun fact: 20% of people don’t itch with poison ivy. It’s an allergic reaction, not a poison.

[@leanneess5957]

ive enjoyed watching your videos, and as i am a westie owner, i was waiting for one... You did a fantastic job with Doogie. I had a westie, who was ridiculously grumpy by the end of his life, and i would have been very happy with what you were able to accomplish in this groom! Well done! :) Westie-tude is definitely a thing! :D

[@KristinErskine-qn4in]

You are so good with these fur babies! I appreciate your firmness and compassion for the animals you groom.

[@TheLballou]

Poor little guy. Resigned, but I will bet that he feels so much better! And, yes, the meds made a huge difference!

[@1GoodWoman]

Hi Vanessa. Ounce of prevention is a lovely strategy. Watching you change up the order of what you do to adapt to the animal is a masterclass in life flexibility. Every time I drop in to your channel I get my daily dose of expert professional expert kindness and just plain wonderful. You are so good for my quality of life!

[@QUICKBOOKS1]

These videos are MY sedative!

[@nicholedillon751]

You are amazing! So gentle and thoughtful.

[@heatherboardman7004]

Have watched a few of these and must say you are great in the way you treat the dogs. Talking to them and not rough with them.❤

[@jody024]

Of course you were able to groom him, you're the MVP.

[@nousummertime9592]

So glad you managed to groom that poor sweetheart!!! And I'm sure he appreciates & enjoys the relief also!!!😍😍😍💖 Great owners doing the best for him!!!

[@possumofantikka8160]

bless you for helping this poor dog. he must be so uncomfortable. you are a pro

[@ianreiter835]

This reminds me of my Westie- she passed away a couple years back. Such an exceptional breed of dog, but their skin is so very sensitive.

[@mimzyc9949]

Terrors or rather terriers are so cute but kind of like gremlins.

[@lesliecastro6519]

So glad owners of this breed cleared up that they are susceptible to allergies, I was getting a lil upset that he was being ignored🙈now I know he is super loved💓💓

[@coracobb3917]

What a good boy! You could tell he was a bit apprehensive but tolerated it so well. You were also very patient with him and respected his feelings.

[@Oonacles]

Seeing westies always makes me sad because it reminds me of the dog that basically grew up with me. Maggie was put down a few months ago :(

[@xo2quilt]

Some of our dogs leave deeper paw prints on our hearts. I'm so sorry you lost your beloved Maggie.

[@conniemorgan8402]

I also had a westie named Maggieshe lived to be 15.. no issues or allergies.. very well behaved..the first groomer I took her to..never spoke to the animals at all .. I finally found a groomer that loved her job and animals.. she did have a couple of fatty deposits, Maggie loved her and was always so excited to see the groomer.. so important..

[@trcass1]

Great segment. you did wonders with that little guy. I take my 80 lb long hair GSD to the groomers tomorrow, for the first time. Wish me luck.....lol

[@SherryEllesson]

A lot will depend on the groomer's demeanor. If s/he is calm yet firm, the GSD will probably be reassured, esp if the bath water is warm. Good luck to your G-shep. They're great dogs.

[@trcass1]

@@SherryEllesson thanks, i have two. Maverick a 3 year old male and Phoenix a 2 year old female.

[@SherryEllesson]

@@trcass1 I love big dogs - have had a number of breeds - currently (and for past 25 yrs) it's been Briards.

[@trcass1]

@@SherryEllesson i lost an earlier GSD, Harley, to Hemangiosarcoma at almost 6. we had the surgery but it reoccurred in 3 months. I had to have another as he was such a great dog. I got another GSD from Top Gun Kennels in Fairfax Station so i had to name him Maverick. Totally opposite of Harley. We got another when he turned 1, a female GSD we had to name Phoenix. One of the characters in the movie Top Gun Maverick, so he could have a "wingman"......lol