A professional bath is about much more than getting your dog clean! 🫧 

While bathing, we carefully pay attention to your pet’s skin and coat. This gives us an opportunity to look for visible concerns such as:

🫧 Mats or tangles

🫧 Fleas, flea dirt, or ticks

🫧 Redness, irritation or unusual lumps

🫧 Changes you may not easily see beneath the coat 

🫧 And so much more!

Our groomers also ensure our high quality shampoo and conditioner reaches through the coat, rinse thoroughly and prepare each dog for complete drying and grooming.

We aren’t veterinarians and cannot diagnose medical conditions, but if we notice something concerning, we’ll let you know so you can decide whether to contact your veterinarian. Every step matters when it comes to your pet’s comfort and care! 

October 24th, 2026

A little communication at drop-off helps us give your pet the best possible grooming experience! 

Before you leave, please let your groomer know:

📏 Your preferred length and style — reference photos are welcome!

💜 Any recent health or behavior changes, including tender areas, skin concerns, new medications or increased anxiety.

👂 Special requests, such as ear plucking, teeth brushing or areas you would like handled differently.

📱 The best number to reach you and any pickup-time limitations.

We’ll also assess your pet’s coat condition and discuss whether any adjustments are needed for their comfort and safety.

Every pet is different, so these small details help us build the right plan for their appointment! 🐾 

October 13th, 2026

Spooky season is here!

A few simple precautions can help keep Halloween fun and safe for every member of the family:

• Keep candy and treat bags out of reach. Chocolate can be dangerous for pets, while sugar-free candy containing xylitol can be especially dangerous for dogs.

• If your pet wears a costume, make sure it doesn’t restrict their movement, sight or breathing. A festive bandana is a great alternative for pets that dislike dressing up.

• Secure doors and gates when visitors arrive. Costumes, unfamiliar faces and frequent doorbell rings can frighten some pets or tempt them to dart outside.

If your pet eats something potentially harmful, contact your veterinarian promptly.

Have a happy and safe spooky season from Paws on State Pet Salon!

October 6th, 2026

A great groom starts long before the haircut! 🫧

The finished style may get most of the attention, but bathing and prep work create the foundation for a beautiful result.

🛁 A thorough bath cleans the skin and coat

💨 Complete drying prepares the coat and helps prevent new tangles

🐾 Careful prep work also includes brushing, combing, nails, ears and paw pads 

Proper drying is especially important for longer or thicker coats, and professional groomers choose techniques based on each dog’s coat type and comfort.

Every part of the process takes time, skill and attention. At Paws on State, each step matters because your pet’s comfort, safety and finished groom all matter to us. 💜 

September 30th, 2026

Is your pup tangle-free? Don’t forget these easy-to-miss spots!

Tangles can hide in areas that experience lots of movement or friction:

• Behind the ears

• Under the collar or harness

• Around the armpits and legs 

Gently brush each area in small sections, then check your work with a metal grooming comb. If the comb catches, there may still be a tangle hiding closer to the skin.

Never pull through a tight mat or attempt to cut it out with scissors — your groomer can help determine the safest option. Regular brushing can help keep the coat manageable between appointments.

September 28th, 2026

Is your vacuum working overtime?

A professional deshedding service helps loosen and remove the coat that is already ready to come out. This can mean:

• Less loose fur around your home

• A clean, healthy coat

• Less trapped undercoat

• A more manageable shedding season
  
  

A deshed won’t completely stop your dog’s natural shedding cycle, but it can make a noticeable difference! Regular brushing and bathing also help manage loose hair between appointments.

September 21st, 2026

What exactly is handstripping?

Handstripping is a specialized grooming technique used on certain wire, harsh or broken coats. Instead of cutting the outer coat with clippers, we carefully remove the mature, dead hairs so the newer coat can come through.

When performed correctly on a suitable coat, handstripping can help:

• Preserve the natural wiry texture

• Maintain richer coat color

• Keep the dog’s natural, breed-appropriate appearance
  
  

Not every dog or coat is a candidate, and maintaining a handstripped coat requires a consistent schedule. We’re happy to assess your pet’s coat and discuss the best grooming option for their needs!

We offer handstripping, contact us to set up your appointment!

September 17th, 2026

A Puppy's First Groom is a Big Milestone!

The first visit isn’t about expecting perfection — it’s about gently introducing your puppy to the sounds, sensations and handling involved in grooming.

For puppies, their very first groom consists of a bath, blow dry (if tolerated), brush, nail clip or grind, ear cleaning — and for haircut breeds, trimming in front of the eyes, shaving paw pads, shaping their feet, and a light sanitary shave.

We work patiently and move at your puppy’s comfort level. Every calm moment is a success, and these early experiences can help grooming feel more familiar as your puppy grows.

We also celebrate the occasion with one of our special “My First Groom” certificates!

September 16th, 2026

DOG SUPPLEMENT RECALL

We wanted to share this important recall to help keep our clients and their pets safe!

The FDA has announced a recall of two Fi powdered dog supplements because they may be contaminated with Salmonella:

🐾 Fi Calming Supplement for Dogs, 180 g
Lot number: 26118
UPC: 8 50064 80011 1

🐾 Fi 8-in-1 Formula Supplement for Dogs, 180 g
Lot number: 26159
UPC: 8 50055 11168 4

These products were sold through Amazon, Chewy and directly from Fi. If you have one of the affected lots, stop using it immediately, tightly seal and dispose of it, and thoroughly wash and sanitize any bowls, scoops, containers or surfaces it contacted.

Salmonella may cause lethargy, vomiting, fever, decreased appetite, abdominal discomfort or diarrhea — which may be bloody. Some infected dogs may not show obvious symptoms but can still spread the bacteria.

If your dog consumed an affected product and isn’t feeling well, please contact your veterinarian.

You can read the full recall on the FDA's website.

We will continue to monitor recalls in the pet industry so we can help keep your pets safe!

September 15th, 2026

Why can a grooming quote change?

We always do our best to provide an accurate initial quote based on the information and photos we receive.

However, the final price may change once we meet your pet, fully assess their grooming needs, or throughout the groom.

Pricing may be affected by:

✂️Matting and overall coat condition

🐕Your pet’s size, coat type and density

🐾Behavior and cooperation during grooming

⏰Additional time or assistance needed

Two dogs of the same breed or weight can require very different amounts of time and work.

Any necessary adjustments help account for the time, care and handling required to complete your pet’s groom as safely and comfortably as possible.

Thank you for understanding and trusting Paws on State Pet Salon with your pets!

September 12th, 2026

A small update can make a big difference in your pet’s grooming experience!

Before every appointment, please let us know about any recent:

💊Medication changes — including calming medication and when it was given

🩺New diagnoses, illnesses, surgeries or veterinary restrictions

🐾Pain, injuries, sensitive areas, lumps or mobility problems

🧴Skin irritation, allergies, hot spots or ear concerns

💭Changes in behavior, anxiety or tolerance for grooming

🫁Seizures, fainting, breathing difficulties or other medical episodes

Why do we need to know?

Grooming involves standing, lifting, handling, water, dryers and unfamiliar sounds.

A health or behavior change may mean your pet needs extra breaks, gentler handling, a modified or shortened groom, help getting on and off the table, or a quieter and more efficient appointment.

Knowing beforehand also helps us avoid painful areas, recognize concerning symptoms more quickly and decide whether grooming can be completed safely that day.

Please include what changed, when it started, any instructions from your veterinarian and anything that has helped your pet stay comfortable.

There is never any judgment, and sharing this information does not automatically mean we cannot groom your pet.

It simply allows us to make the safest and most compassionate decisions for them. The more we know, the better we can care for your pet.

September 10, 2026

Think you’re finished brushing? Try the comb test! 🐾

A slicker brush can make the outside of your dog’s coat look beautiful while small tangles remain closer to the skin.

After brushing, gently run a metal grooming comb (greyhound comb) through each section of the coat.

✅ If it glides through easily, you’re doing great!

⚠️ If it catches, that area may need more gentle brushing.

Never tug through tight mats or use scissors near the skin — contact your groomer for help instead.

Regular at-home brushing and combing can make grooming appointments more comfortable for your dog and help you maintain the longer style you love. 

We sell slicker brushes and greyhound combs in the salon! Pick one up at your next appointment and we can show you how to use it properly or answer any questions you have.

Mats? No problem, we can help! Message us to set up your appointment today! 

September 9, 2026

DID YOU KNOW?

Some dogs shed even more during the fall!

Many double-coated breeds naturally release part of their seasonal coat as the weather changes. Regular brushing and professional deshedding can help remove loose undercoat, reduce shedding around your home, and keep your dog’s coat comfortable and healthy.

MYTH: Shaving a double-coated dog will reduce shedding.

FACT: Shaving does not stop the natural shedding cycle—it only makes the shedding hairs shorter and may affect the coat’s texture or regrowth. Proper brushing and deshedding are safer, more effective ways to manage all that fluff!

If you’re suddenly finding enough fur around the house to build a second dog, it may be time for a spa day!

September 8, 2026

With the upcoming heat wave, here’s how to keep your pup safe:

• Walk early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.

• Check the pavement with the back of your hand for 7 seconds — if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

• Provide plenty of fresh, cool water. Have one bowl per dog.

• Keep outdoor time short and stick to shady areas for potty time.

• Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows down for a minute.

• Watch for signs of heatstroke, including excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, or collapse. If you notice these signs, move your pet to a cool area and contact your vet immediately.

Remember: Some dogs, such as seniors, puppies, flat-faced breeds, and thick-coated dogs are more sensitive to heat.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and give your pups plenty of indoor snuggles this week! 

June 28, 2026

Just because your dog has a thick coat doesn’t mean they’re overheating! 

Double-coated breeds are actually designed to help regulate body temperature year-round. Their coat acts like insulation — helping keep heat OUT in the summer and warmth IN during the winter.

That’s why shaving a double-coated dog can sometimes do more harm than good. Instead, regular brushing and deshedding help remove loose undercoat so air can properly circulate through the coat and keep them comfortable. 

Keeping up with grooming, hydration, and shade is the best way to help your pup stay cool and healthy this summer!  

How Does it Work?
The top coat (guard hairs) repels sun, dirt, and heat. It acts like a shade and helps protect against UV rays.

The undercoat traps a layer of air close to the body. In summer, that air layer helps slow outside heat from reaching the skin. 

When the coat sheds out dense winter undercoat, the remaining coat allows air circulation while insulating from heat.

Dogs cool themselves through panting and blood flow through the skin, and a healthy coat helps regulate the process naturally.

May 26, 2026

With Mother’s Day here, many homes will be filled with beautiful flowers and plants. 

But did you know some popular bouquets and houseplants can be toxic to cats and dogs?

Some common toxic plants are:

• Lilies

• Sago Palm

• Aloe Vera

• Pathos

• Snake Plant

• Peace Lily

• Philodendron

• Dumb Cane

• Jade Plant

• English Ivy

• ZZ Plant

• Monstera

• Tulips

• Oleander

• Autumn Crocus

 Common Symptoms Include:

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Excessive Drooling

• Lethargy

• Tremors

• Seizures

• Difficulty Breathing

Lilies are especially dangerous to cats, and Sago Palms can be deadly to dogs even in small amounts.

Before bringing new plants and flowers into your home this weekend, make sure they’re safe for your furry family members, too!

May 10, 2026

Flea season is May through October, have you noticed your pup scratching lately? We can help you!

Remember: our flea baths only kill the fleas present on the dog. Thorough house cleaning, bed washing, and flea prevention is important to eliminate them completely.

Please let us know when you schedule your appointment or at drop off if your dog has fleas or you think they might have fleas–it is important we get them in the tub as fast as possible! 

Here’s some facts about fleas, spread the word so we can keep our pets safe and healthy! 

Infestations
One flea lays up to fifty eggs a day, causing an infestation quickly.

When They're Active
May through October, but they can live year-round indoors.

Diseases
Flea Allergy Dermatitis, Tapeworms, Anemia, Skin Infections

Signs of Fleas
Scratching and chewing, red bumps and scabs, hair loss and hot spots, black flea dirt or live fleas

Protect Your Pet
Monthly preventatives, regular grooming, regular vacuuming, stay on it year-round

How We Can Help
Flea baths, flea and flea dirt removal, prevention tips

August 24, 2025

Ticks are more than just a nuisance–they can carry diseases that put your pup’s health at risk. Protect your dog with the right tick prevention!

We can help safely and properly remove ticks if you find them on your dog–we can also check your dog for any ticks if you’re not sure!

Here's some facts and tips about ticks, so you and your pet can be comfortable and healthy: 

What Are Ticks?
Blood feeding parasites that can attach to your pet's skin and cause serious diseases.

Where Do They Live?
Grassy, wooded areas. They can attach to your pet during hikes, walks, or in your yard.

When They're Active
April through November. Most enjoy warm, humid environments. Deer Ticks can also thrive in cooler environments. 

Signs of Ticks
Lumps or bumps, lethargy and weakness, joint pain and stiffness, loss of appetite, fever or swelling.

Diseases
Lyme Disease, Ehrichiosis, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, Tick Paralysis 

Prevention
Monthly preventatives, regular grooming, check after walks, keep yard tidy, avoid dense woods, remove properly. 

How We Can Help
Tick checks during grooming, tick removal, tips on prevention.

August 25, 2025

Matting is more than a bad hair day - it’s painful for your pup!

We now sell slicker brushes and combs at the salon! Pick one up at your appointment so you can prevent tangles and matting in between grooms! 

• Slicker Brush: $12

• Metal Comb: $10

To be sure your dog’s coat stays mat-free, brush daily or every other day starting with your slicker brush and ending with your comb. Combs are important for making sure you are getting down to the skin! 

Here are some tips and facts about matting: 

What is Matting?
Tangled, tightly knotted fur due to loose hair, dirt, moisture, and lack of brushing. If left untreated, it can cause serious health and skin issues.

Why it Matters
Skin irritation, infections, pain, discomfort, parasite hideouts, circulation issues, movement restriction.

Signs of Matting
Clumps of tangled fur, sensitivity when touched, scratching or chewing, odor, tight feeling while petting.

Prevention
Regular brushing, regular combing, dry completely, check friction areas often, regular grooming, short haircuts.

How We Can Help
Brushing services, combing services, coat restarts and shaves, practical haircuts, routine grooming schedules, tips for brushing at home.

We recommend your pet being on a 4-6 week grooming schedule to prevent matting and tangles.

September 6, 2025

Grooming isn't just about looking and smelling great...it's important for their health, too!

Skin and Coat Health

Regular brushing helps prevent matting, removes dirt, and distributes natural oils, leaving your pet’s coat shiny and healthy. It also helps reduce shedding and get rid of dead undercoat, which allows your pet’s double-coat to work properly. This helps keep your pup cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Ear and Eye Care

Routine grooming allows us to check for ear infections, debris, or irritations, and ensures their eyes are clean and healthy. Plus, it’s a great time to trim any excess hair that may block vision or cause discomfort.

Nail Trimming

Long nails can cause pain and lead to posture problems. Regular trims help keep your pet’s paws in tip-top shape, making walks and play time more comfortable. Long nails can push up on the nail bed, causing painful paws while standing and walking.

Hygiene and Comfort

Regular baths not only keep your pet smelling fresh but also prevent skin irritations and discomfort caused by dirt, oils, or buildup. It’s a key step in preventing hotspots and infections.

Early Detection of Issues

During grooming sessions, we check your pup’s skin, ears, paws, and teeth, spotting any early signs of health problems. Early intervention can make all the difference!

Pro Tip

Regular grooming appointments also create a routine your pet can get used to, making it easier for them to stay calm and be less anxious during the grooming process.

We suggest a 4-6 week grooming schedule.

Make grooming a priority for your pet’s health, comfort, and happiness! 

September 21, 2025

How often should you get your dog groomed?

We are asked this question often—the answer depends on many different factors such as breed, coat type, and lifestyle.

 Short-haired breeds ➪ every 8-12 weeks

 Long-haired breeds ➪ every 4-6 weeks

 Curly or wavy breeds ➪ every 4-6 weeks

 Double-coated breeds ➪ every 6-8 weeks

Puppies

Start grooming around 12 weeks old. Early exposure builds trust and creates a stress-free grooming routine.

In Between Grooms

Brush and comb at home, clean ears, check nails, wipe paws.

Not sure what your dog needs? Ask one of our knowledgable groomers and we can help you!

We book up fast! We always recommend setting up your next appointment at pick up to ensure you can get in on the days that work for you. We can always prebook your appointments for the year, too! 

September 28, 2025