When mine have to take pills I wrap a little piece of cheese, or the peanut butter slices you get from Petco around the pill and it works most of the time. I've also bought the pill pocket, 10 bucks for a small bag, at the pet store that is a little treat you put the pill inside and my dogs do well with those too. But they are so expensive I usually just use cheese or peanut butter slices.
I've taken mine to petsmart and the vet for grooming and didn't like either. I looked and looked and finally found a lady that does it from her home and I think they get more personal attention that way. The vet charged me 55.00 for a nail trim and trimming a FEW hairs on Bentley and I'll never go that route again! As far as hold old when they go, I guess that would depend on how many shots they've had and how much they weigh. I'm sure someone else can advise on that.
Hope this helps
