Geriatric Grooming In Verona

Geriatric Grooming Experts

Certified Vet Tech & Groomer with 50+ Years of Experience

The Platinum Pooch LLC

What Is Geriatric Grooming?

Geriatric grooming is a specialized approach to grooming senior dogs that takes into account the unique physical and emotional needs that come with age. Older dogs often have arthritis, joint pain, thinning skin, reduced stamina, cognitive changes, and a lower tolerance for the stress of a standard grooming environment. A grooming approach that works perfectly well for a healthy three year old dog can be genuinely uncomfortable or even harmful for a dog in their senior years.

At The Platinum Pooch, geriatric grooming is performed by Donna M. Walko, a Certified Veterinary Technician who holds a dedicated certification in geriatric pet handling. With over 50 years of experience working with animals, Donna understands the aging body in a way that goes far beyond what most groomers are trained to recognize. Every senior dog that comes through our door is treated with extra patience, extra gentleness, and a level of care that reflects how much they truly deserve it.

The Platinum Pooch LLC

When Is Geriatric Grooming Necessary?

Most dogs are considered seniors somewhere between seven and ten years of age, depending on their breed and size. Larger breeds tend to age faster, with some considered senior as early as five or six years old. If your dog is slowing down, showing signs of stiffness or discomfort, tiring more easily, or becoming anxious in situations that never used to bother them, it may be time to transition to a geriatric grooming approach.

You should also consider geriatric grooming if your senior dog has been avoiding the groomer, showing signs of distress during appointments, or if a previous groomer has suggested they are too difficult to handle. These are not character flaws. They are signs that your dog needs a groomer with the right skills, the right environment, and the right temperament to meet them where they are. That is exactly what we offer.

The Platinum Pooch LLC

A Groomer Who Understands What Your Senior Dog Is Going Through

Senior dogs are not just older versions of their younger selves. Their bodies have changed, their tolerance for stress has decreased, and they need a groomer who recognizes and respects that. At The Platinum Pooch, we never rush a senior dog. We adjust our techniques to accommodate limited mobility, work around painful joints, and take breaks whenever needed. We keep the environment calm and quiet, and we monitor your dog throughout the appointment with the attentiveness of a trained veterinary professional.

Donna's certification in geriatric pet handling combined with her background as a Certified Veterinary Technician means she is uniquely qualified to care for your aging companion. She knows the signs of pain and discomfort, knows when to stop and reassess, and knows how to make the grooming experience as positive as possible for a dog who may be going through a difficult season of life. Your senior dog has given you years of loyalty and love. They deserve a groomer who gives them the same in return.

TESTIMONIALS

What Our Geriatric Grooming Customers Say About Us

The Process

Our Simple 3 Step Process

Contact Us

Start by filling out the form on our website. Let us know a little about your dog and what you’re looking for with Dog Grooming. It helps us understand your needs and get things started smoothly.

Schedule Your Visit

After we review your info, we’ll reach out to find a time that works well for you and your dog. We’ll walk through what to expect and make sure everything feels like a good fit for Dog Grooming.

Pick Up Your Happy Pup!

Once your visit is scheduled, you can rest easy. The team at The Platinum Pooch LLC will take great care of your dog with attentive, gentle, and dependable Dog Grooming.