When I dunked Addy, I shampooed out the Downy and then coated her hair in conditioner. I used a wig brush and a wide toothed comb to brush her out. After she was dry, I just use the brush. Mine did lose some hair, but it wasn't a big deal. She was pretty knotted, so I expected some hair loss. Addy has so much hair, a little loss isn't noticable.
I got the picks from AG, and they are TINY. I haven't used them yet. If I were you, I would pop into Sally's or a beauty supply and get a regular pick if you want to try one. Look for one with no nubs on the end of the metal tines. My wig brush has no nubs, and I strongly prefer it to the ones AG makes.