November 1 is International Pet Groomer Appreciation Day, and we connected with some professional pet groomers about their experience working in the industry. Below, they share their pet grooming tips, tricks, and stories to help pet owners understand the craft.
One Expert’s Pet Grooming Story
Vicki Doyle, owner of grooming business Groomed by Vicki and dog shampoo brand called Dirty Bertie, shares her most epic pet groomer story about a shimmering Cockapoo:
“One of my most memorable grooms was a Cockapoo who came in covered in glue and glitter,” she recalls. “The kids had given him a makeover for a family photo shoot. They put green glitter on her paws and a trail of sequins down her back.”
Of course, this didn’t end well for the pup, whose coat was matted with glue.
“Thankfully, it was PVA glue, which is water-based, so I was able to apply raw coconut oil to her fur to soften the glue before giving her a bath,” Doyle continues. “Rinse and repeat another two times (with plenty of rest in between) before clipping her fur to tidy her up.”
The entire cleanup took a full day, but Doyle was able to restore the pup’s coat to normal.
“Even a year later, I still find glitter in my salon!” she says.
Pro Tips for At-Home Grooming
All types of pets require grooming, including rabbits.
©Irina Skalskaya/Shutterstock.com
If your pet is in need of grooming but you lack access to a professional pet groomer, don’t fret. Here are some expert tips for at-home grooming.
1. Use a Lick Mat in the Bath
If you’re having trouble getting your pet into the bath—a common struggle for many pet owners—Doyle recommends trying a lick mat.
“Stick a suction lick mat to the side of the tub and smear it with something tasty (like xylitol-free peanut butter),” she says. “It doesn’t work for every dog, but when it does, it makes the process so much easier!”
2. Work Out Matted Hair When Brushing
Many pet owners make the mistake of only brushing the surface of their pet’s coat, missing the deeper tangles and knots.
“When brushing, don’t just give the surface a quick once-over,” Doyle says. “Mats start close to the skin. Use a slicker brush to work in small sections and follow with a metal comb to check your work. If the comb won’t go through, there’s still a knot in there.”
3. Brush Your Pet Before a Bath
Instead of waiting until after you bathe your pet, brush them before wetting their coat.
“Wet tangles turn into dreadlocks and become harder to remove,” Doyle says. “Use a coat-appropriate dog shampoo (not human shampoo), rinse thoroughly, and avoid soaking the ears and face.”
4. Towel Dry Your Pet
Towels are much less intimidating for animals than even low-heat hair dryers. If you do use a dryer, always start by towel drying to absorb most of the moisture.
“Always towel dry before using a hair dryer to cut drying time in half and lower stress for dogs,” says Pratima Kandel, founder of Pouty Paws. “Choose a towel made from a quick-dry, wringable fabric so you don’t need five soggy towels.”
5. Use a Robe
To completely eliminate the need for a hair dryer, wrap your pet in a small robe and let it dry over time.
“Use a robe after the towel to absorb leftover moisture and keep your home dry while your dog relaxes,” Kandel recommends.
What Pet Groomers Wish Pet Owners Knew
Many pet groomers will do mobile grooming for at-home services.
©Sherbak_photo/Shutterstock.com
Wondering what the professionals want you to understand about pet grooming? Here are their must-knows.
No shampoo in the world can detangle neglected, matted fur.
Vicki Doyle, owner of grooming business Groomed by Vicki and dog shampoo brand Dirty Bertie
Grooming Is Crucial for Your Pet’s Health
While grooming might just seem like an aesthetic process, it’s actually quite important for your pet’s overall health and well-being.
“Grooming isn’t just about looking and smelling good; it’s essential for your dog’s comfort and health,” says Doyle.
You Should Brush Your Dog Every Day
Too many pet owners neglect brushing their furry friends, assuming it’s an unnecessary routine.
“If you don’t brush your dog and their fur is matted, the kindest option might be a short clip, even if it’s not what you had in mind,” says Doyle. “Their well-being comes first, always! If you don’t want this to happen, brush your dog every day.”
You Must Be Honest About Your Pet’s Behavior
Not every pet is as friendly or calm as the next, and that doesn’t make them less worthy of a proper grooming. However, it’s crucial to let your pet groomer know of any concerning behaviors (e.g., aggression, panic, etc.) so they come prepared.
“We’re not here to judge, just to keep everyone safe and stress-free,” Doyle says. “Not being fully honest can be dangerous.”
Don’t Put Off Pet Grooming
While regular pet grooming might be inconvenient or expensive, neglecting it can lead to irreparable matted fur and discomfort for your poor pet.
“Please don’t wait six months between appointments for a high-maintenance coat,” Doyle states. “No shampoo in the world can detangle neglected, matted fur.”
Make Sure You’re Using the Right Drying Tools
After a stressful bath, the last thing your pet needs is a panic attack triggered by intimidating drying tools.
“A dog’s stress during bath time often comes from long drying sessions,” Kandel says. “The right drying tools can make grooming feel safe, quick, and even enjoyable for them.”
