[paulapoo]

My 2 yr old Otis has never been to the "beauty shop". I've always just "made do" at home. I struggle the most with his adorable face & nails. HE HATES IT!! We've all heard the horror stories. I was at Petsmart one day watching the girl groom a shih-tzu. She pulled so hard on his facial hair, I actually had to stop watching. I'm sure there are gentle, loving groomers out there but without seeing with my own eyes, I don't trust anyone. I even bought a grooming table arm online to use. It helped a little bit, but he still tries to climb up my arm while I'm trying to trim him. I subscribed to a thread about grooming pillows, but didn't get much of a response. I'm single so there's no one to help hold him while I try. In the past I've always kind of "snuck up" on him while he's sleeping and done it 1 cut at a time, as he gets his feelings hurt everytime I try to trim. Is there anyone out there with any more advice for me? He tolerates me cutting the hair on his body, but his face and feet are a totally different story. I don't want people thinking he's not loved because he doesn't have a store bought haircut. I'll figure out this weekend how to post a picture so you all can see my somewhat shaggy boy!! Trust me, he is very loved regardless of his disheveled hair do. I continue to sneak up on him to keep his face trimmed so he can see, in hopes that soon I will find the answers. Will he become more tolerant as he gets older? Any information is appreciated.