So I thought I would take this opportunity to write about sensitive dog skin and clipper rash. I will write about clipper burns on a separate post as this is not something that occurs when using a machines similar to my  Clipper Vac .

If after a groom your pup starts to show discomfort by licking an area, scooting and/or show a visible rash, it is important to sooth the area with vaseline or neosporin. This will help keep your dog from further scratching, scooting and biting the area and prevent further irritation. Also let me or your groomer know about this so the event is noted in grooming notes. This allows the groomer to make adjustments specifically for your pet. 

The owner wanted Molly to look Bichon, so together we came up with a long term plan. For this visit, the plan was to remove the mats. So  I pushed the mats out as far away from the skin as possible. I then shaved the mats off. Surprisingly, I was able to keep 1/2" of hair. (it's usually 1/4 - 1/8" that can be saved) Regarding Molly's muzzle, there was nothing I can do but to wait until it  grew out.  

I've saved this picture for when I started this grooming blog. I had a Griffon come in earlier this year who had not been groomed for 7 months. Poor thing was in bad shape. Mats everywhere, but the most interesting is that I found a tightly woven mat around one of his nails. 

Poor thing had a hard time moving that toe. I HAD a hard time trying to figure out how I was going to release that toe. 

I spoke with the mom later that day. I told her that I was not doing my job to support her in keeping up with her dog's grooming. I said that I understood that she had a two year old and a busy schedule, so I offered to book an appointment 6 weeks out and also send her a text reminder the day before. She agreed that being on a regular grooming schedule would benefit her pup. 

SIX WEEKS LATER:  The mom failed to come in with her dog. I am saddened for the dog.