Need help. Advice regarding dog groomers.

[Midnight Writer]

I came into possession of a Yorkshire Terrier about three weeks ago. Animal control recovered him from a backyard pen and he is very overgrown. Adult male, about two years old, weighs 12 pounds. Very raw, not trained in any way, but he is coming along. He is very affectionate, but he is still a little afraid of me. If I speak in a loud voice or a stern tone, he cowers or flops down in a "bear rug" posture, sometimes urinates. He's got a crooked hind leg that splays out, and a messed up ear.

I had a devil of a time finding a groomer. They are all booked up for weeks, and I think he needs more immediate attention. I went to a local Pet Smart today and they can see him tomorrow. I've never done this and I have a couple of questions.

1) Is this going to be something traumatic for him? Does the owner usually stay in the room, or should I just trust them to handle it? I I noticed they were working on 2 other dogs and the owners were not there.

2) Is a tip appropriate? They estimated about $50, but they haven't seen him yet and that may change.

Any advice would be helpful. Thanks to you all.

[Mr.Bill]

1. He will probably spend some time alone in a crate.

Tell the groomer exactly what you have told us, so they know the situation. As far as tipping, I sometimes tip around the holidays. Remember if you tip, it's only logical they will expect it every time. They never have acted with me as if they expect it. I have no idea what other people do, but then that's why it's a good idea to post the question here.

[Midnight Writer]

2. Thanks. I spoke briefly to the guy who is going to do the work, and he seemed cool.

He has two Yorkies of his own and seemed sympathetic.

[Mr.Bill]

3. That's good.

I have Yorkie/Maltese mix and the groomer always tells me she behaves very well. I'm sure it will go fine.

[multigraincracker]

4. I've found most groomers have seen it all.

We can't touch the feet of our small dog to trim his nails. She has no problem.

[Midnight Writer]

5. Thanks. I am a little nervous about this. I feel like I am just gaining this little guy's trust.

I would hate for him to think he is being punished or deserted.

[multigraincracker]

6. Dogs are pretty much in the here and now.

They are not good at putting things together. Give em a treat and they are happy. He'll be glad to see you and feeling better about being cleaned up.

[Midnight Writer]

7. He'll surely feel better. He is very cute, but his fur is a mess.