The Magic Touch

Freshly shorn.

One constant in Riley’s crazy life since I adopted him is his groomer (the Clip Joint in Arlington). When he was still in the wild animal stage, I took him to a groomer. I was filled with dread. The knot in my shoulder was throbbing. I was on my third vet. One suggested I put him down (this was before his skin problem was FINALLY diagnosed). I arrived at our first appointment with no expectations. Well, I expected a frantic phone call shortly after I dropped him off demanding I come pick up my deranged dog.

I gave them the whole story; his behavior with the vet, his behavior with me, his distrust of EVERYONE. They said they would try to work with him, and if it didn’t work, no problem, they’d call me to pick him up. He’s so cute, they said, he can’t be that difficult!

He cried when left. I ran to my car and turned my phone all the way up. I went home and nervously awaited the call. What was I going to do with this crazy dog that let no one close to him? After two hours I called to check on the progress. He and they were fine, they assured me.

A couple of hours later I got a call; Riley was groomed and ready for pick-up. Really?! Did you drug him?! Did you muzzle him? What happened?! They bathed him then left him on the grooming table and would do a little work, then leave him, then go back. He growled a bit, but was very sweet. What?! Very sweet?! They were so gentle and patient with him, again, I cried.

His behavior at the groomer has even improved over the last few years. They no longer muzzle him and he allows them to do whatever they want – paws, ears, all the sensitive spots. My vet didn’t believe me. I still don’t think my current vet fully believes me. But they worked so hard with Psycho Pup and I am forever grateful. And they can never move!!