New dog groomer opens

<p>Democrat photo/Michelle Brooks</p><p>Ivy Trowbridge trims a maltese mix.</p>

Democrat photo/Michelle Brooks

Ivy Trowbridge trims a maltese mix.

Regular grooming is important to a dog's health.

Ivy and Wes Trowbridge opened TLC Grooming at 800 W. Buchanan St. to help pet owners do that.

The by-appointment service features adjustable grooming tables, custom-built wash tubs, organic soaps, specialty clippers and kennels.

Ivy Trowbridge has several years experience as a veterinary assistant, as well as completing a dog grooming training program at Pet Sense in North Carolina.

One of the specialties she provides is nail grinding. When a dog's nails are trimmed, the edge are sharp and can be a danger to young or elderly owners. The grinding rounds off those rough spots.

Trowbridge also offers a deshedding treatment, which helps to release all of the loose hair underneath a coat.

She also takes the time to tend to the intricate needs of ears and paws, to prevent sores, infections or other issues.

She works with each dog one-on-one and offers flexible times so the dogs do not have to stay all day, she said.

The average groom time is two and one-half hours, but varies by the dog's breed and temperament.

Trowbridge has worked with tiny yorkies less than 10 pounds and huge St. Bernards, she said.

"I've always liked working with animals and I've had an interest in groomwing," Trowbridge said.

Call 573-338-5777 for more information.