Summer Grooming Part II

Question
QUESTION: Dear Beth,

I'm the owner of a 2 year old Affenpincher, who has very hard wiry hair.  I'm still getting familiar with this type of breed.  Last year, her hair was finer and not as tight and she did Ok in the summer.  This year, I've noticed that she gets extremely hot walking even when the weather was only 80s.  Does this breed need to cut most of their hair during the summer?

Thanks.

Lillian

ANSWER: Oh Lillian what a lucky girl you are!
I wish I could get my hands on your pup to show you what a clever work of nature you have.
The answer to your question is - yes, her hair should be removed. In fact twice a year it dies out and should be plucked- NOT clippered and the fact that your girl has a hard coat is exciting because although that is what they are supposed to have not many people get it or know how to manage it.
If you would like to know more about the process you can visit my website and email me though that. I may be able to find you someone  who knows how to do it where you live.
If you take her to someone who does not know how to do it you risk losing that hard jacket. It becomes soft and dull.
The process is called hand stripping or plucking. When the coat is finished growing the season it needs to be pulled out in order to let the new growth start over. As I said - twice a year this happens and needs facilitating.
visit me on
terrierific.net
regards
Beth

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Beth!
I am the daughter of Lillian who recently asked about our 2 year old Affenpincher Layla. I noticed that you mentioned you wish you could your hands on little Layla. We noticed she has very course hair and actually throws herself on the floor while we walk her which looks like she is irritated or itching. Its quite comical but we suspect she may be a bit uncomfortable. Are you available to do the stripping and plucking at your facilities? How can we make an appointment?  We live on the upper west side and do not mind traveling to you. Also, how much is it to strip & Pluck? I would love to know?

Thanks again for getting back to us so promptly & I look foward to meeting you and really learning more about our little Layla-Loo!

Best regards,

Ariana

Answer
I DID NOT REALIZE YOU WERE SO CLOSE!
I get questions from all over the world....
Please contact me through my website
terrierific.net  read the PDF on becoming a client - it explains mostly everything and you will have a better idea of the process and my work.
Yes I am available and would love to evaluate your dog.
looking forward to hearing from you