I'm considering grooming my two

[n2mark]

cockerspaniels to save money, plus I am at the point where I cannot no longer lift them into the car. They are old and can't get into the car by themselves. Although another choice is to have a groomer come to the house to groom them, this is costly, but perhaps worth the money in the long run.

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

1. About their not being able to get into the car

Have you seen those pet ramps that allow pets to get into cars and onto beds? I've seen them in the Sky Mall magazines on planes.

[n2mark]

4. I made a ramp for my dogs for the bed and couch

but they are beyond using it. They get to the edge of the bed and couch and put their paws there.

[Vanje]

2. I groom my own

standard poodle.
Nothing fancy, just a sensible haircut every 6 weeks or so.

My only advice is get real good gear and keep it clean and sharp.
The good clippers were expensive, but I've saved many times their price by doing all my own grooming.

[n2mark]

3. I have the Oster clippers,

they also include a video. How do you shampoo your dog?

[Vanje]

6. Watson the poodle joins me in the shower or bath

for an occaisional shampoo.

[BlackVelvetElvis]

5. Do you, you know...

"express their anal glands"?
My cousin has a groomer that does this for her dog.

[Vanje]

7. yes

...but never in public!