Senior Dog Grooming Case Study: Flynn, a Cocker Spaniel with Arthritis

Grooming senior dogs with arthritis often requires a slower pace, flexible positioning, and an understanding of pain and fatigue. For dogs like Flynn, being able to lie down during grooming and take breaks helps reduce stress and physical strain while still maintaining coat health and hygiene.

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Read Flynn's story below, answers from Flynn's owners:

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Who is Flynn?

Flynn is a 12½-year-old Cocker Spaniel. He is generally an easy-going dog who loves people, although at times he can become stressed and find it difficult to settle.

When did Flynn begin to struggle with mobility?

We first became aware that Flynn’s hips were not great after he started limping. X-rays showed that his hips were quite poor, and the vet explained that as he got older they would become sore and arthritic.

How did Flynn cope with grooming before Vanity Fur VIP?

Before we moved, Flynn was groomed a couple of times a year and coped well once he had built a relationship with the groomer. After moving, and then losing our groomer due to retirement, we needed to find someone new locally.

Unfortunately, the groomer we tried was a mistake. Although the advert sounded promising, when we collected Flynn we were told she wouldn’t groom him again because he wouldn’t stand properly. To be honest, it also looked as though his coat had been hacked at.

What did Flynn find difficult as he got older?

As Flynn has aged, his back legs in particular have become sore, and holding them in one position is difficult for him. He has also developed several lumps and bumps that need careful handling.

Flynn also feels the heat badly, so we know he needs to be kept closely trimmed or shaved. However, his comfort during grooming has always been the most important factor for us.

Why did you choose Vanity Fur VIP?

Our son saw the advert and Flynn was due a groom. After speaking to Mel on the phone, we immediately felt comfortable using Vanity Fur VIP.

What really stood out was that Mel took the time to listen to what Flynn needed, rather than treating grooming as a one-size-fits-all process.

How did it feel seeing Flynn groomed in a way that suited him?

For us, this is the most important part of Flynn’s grooming. He is at an age where he has earned the right to be treated with respect and care, and this is exactly how Mel treats him.

Did you notice any difference in Flynn during or after his groom?

Flynn definitely benefits from having shorter fur, and he has never come home stiff or uncomfortable after being groomed.

Because Flynn knows Mel, he seems happy with however she grooms him, and we trust that she always does what is best for him.

How does Flynn seem after his maintenance grooms?

Flynn always comes back from grooming with a little extra something in his step. We genuinely think he enjoys being pampered.

As owners, we now have no worries when we drop him off. We know he is safe, in good hands, and being cared for properly.

How important is it that grooming is adapted to Flynn’s needs?

It is very important to us that Flynn’s grooming is adapted to his needs. While he still needs to be groomed, we would never want this to be at the expense of his health, either physically or mentally.

We have always said that if Flynn is struggling, we would much rather he came home with an incomplete groom than be pushed past what is comfortable for him.

Would you recommend this style of grooming to others?

We would recommend this style of grooming 100%. When you own a senior dog, their comfort has to be the priority.

We would always advise owners to question their groomer and make sure their dog is not being treated as just a number. If you have any doubts, keep looking. We are very thankful that we found Melanie at Vanity Fur VIP and have no hesitation in recommending her to anyone with an elderly dog.

Flynn’s Final Word

The final word should come from Flynn himself. When we arrive at Vanity Fur VIP, he can’t wait to get out of the car and runs up the driveway. He treats Melanie like a long-lost friend and for us, that is the best recommendation.

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Who This Case Study Is For

This case study is for owners of senior dogs, dogs with arthritis, or dogs who struggle to stand for long periods during grooming.

If you’ve previously worried about how your dog will cope with grooming, Flynn’s story shows that there are kinder, more supportive options available.

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If your senior dog struggles with grooming due to arthritis or mobility issues and you’re looking for a dog groomer in North Yorkshire who prioritises comfort and wellbeing, you’re welcome to get in touch to discuss whether our approach is right for your dog.

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