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Beauty and the beast: Four-legged clients love spa and salon treatments, too

Maggie Downs • The Desert Sun • October 31, 2009

It's time for your pup's inner star to get unleashed.


Desert pooches who require a glamorous grooming experience now have a new salon at Hollywood Premier Pets.

The Palm Desert store incorporates ambient music, art deco design, even a “Licker Bar,” to spoil your pooch with the VIP treatment. From blueberry facials to “pawdicures,” this is a pet's paradise.

“I have two dogs of my own, and there wasn't anywhere I could really take them for the best treatment,” says owner Dan Barton.

His goal was to give animals the same five-star treatment that humans want for themselves.

“If I'm going to the St. Regis in Dana Point, I'm not going to drop my dogs off at Motel 6,” he says.

Fido's day at the salon begins with aromatherapy, while relaxing on an orthopedic mattress in a holding crate. That gets the pups properly relaxed for their upcoming spa treatments.

Depending on what services the owner chooses, pets can enjoy things like a hydro- massage, a sudsy shampoo and a blow dry.

Besides helping your pet look and feel great, there are legitimate health reasons for getting your four-legged friend groomed.

For one, groomers who see the pet on a regular basis might notice medical issues that can go overlooked by the owner, like lumps, mites or skin problems.

Plus, a thorough brushing removes dead hair and skin, and spreads out natural oils in your pet's coat. Keeping their ears clean reduces the chance of infection. Properly trimmed nails reduce stress on delicate paws and prevent foot problems.

Barton also offers these tips to make grooming a fun and fabulous experience for every pet:

The earlier you expose your pet to grooming, the better. It's only a stressful experience if they're not used to it.

Ask around for grooming recommendations, especially from pet owners who have a similar breed.

It's important to take your pet to a salon that you trust. See if they can give you a tour of the facilities.

You know how you always feel better after a bath? Pets are the same way. Our four-legged friends are more likely to remain healthy when they are clean and well groomed.

“There's really nothing better you could do for your pet,” Barton says.

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