Groomer's use a table with an adjustable arm and noose. Let the groomer know your concerns about your dog jumping off the table so she/he will be extra careful but a good groomer will be careful anyway. Most dogs are actually a little better for the groomer than they are for the owner. If necessary a second person will assist in holding the dog but it's rarely necessary. I work in a grooming salon and we have very little problem keeping little dogs on the table. Now some of the big dogs are another story.
As far as watching the whole process....well, all I can say is you will be making the groomers job much tougher. I know you are nervous about your baby but be aware that if you are present your baby will wiggle and squirm and be impossible for the groomer to control. When owner's show up while their dog is still on the table we almost always have to ask them to hide around the corner while we finish up. Some of our parents are so well trained that if they see their dog on the table they dash back out the door before their dog sees them. Check with the groomer. Maybe they have an observation window out of the dogs line of vision or something. Otherwise, maybe you could observe them grooming someone elses dog to ease your concerns before you take your dog there.
I have worked in this grooming salon for a year now. It is so fascinating to see the changes in puppies from visit to visit. I have seen many puppies come in the first time that are very difficult to handle and obviously very nervous and by the second or third visit they are giving kisses and wagging their tails like this is the best thing ever. |