EMT
Crises do arise, and the groomer needs to know what to do and when and how to apply first aid. Some special-needs dogs may at some point need your EMT training. Knowing canine CPR is invaluable. The American Red Cross offers canine CPR classes at some chapters and anyone can sign up to learn. Check with your local Red Cross chapter or online at www.redcross.org. Many times, canine CPR is also offered as a class at grooming seminars.
Pet First Aid & Cats and Dogs by Bobbie Mammato, D.V.M., M.P.H.
The Everything® Dog Health Book by Kim Campbell Thornton and Debra Eldredge, D.V.M.
Pet First Aid for Kids Book by Craig Jones
Groomers have to be prepared to deal with any emergency. Knowing what to do can mean the difference between life and death. Having your veterinarian's phone number handy, or memorized, is a good idea in case an unexpected emergency arises.
Canine first aid comes in handy for any pet owner. There are books available on the subject. Check at bookstores, libraries, and online for these titles.
Medical History
Dogs may experience seizures, difficulty breathing or standing, bleeding, shock, panic attacks, anxiety, and fear. It's important to know the pet's background when grooming her for the first time. Many groomers complete a card that includes important medical information and emergency numbers to reach the owner. The groomer must know about a dog's medical problems so she will know what to do in an emergency situation.
For example, it's important to know if a dog has a heart problem. Stress and heated dryers would not be good for that dog. If a dog has a hearing problem or poor eyesight or is blind, it's important for the groomer to know this so he can avoid accidentally startling the dog and getting bitten. Aging dogs with arthritis or bad hips and knees are common, but it's important to know this ahead of time so the groomer doesn't move the dog in a way that might hurt the dog.
Boo-Boos
Occasionally, boo-boos happen. Toenails get quicked, skin gets nicked, and the groomer responds with first aid. For more serious health issues, such as hematoma caused by headshaking, a trip to the vet may be in order. The groomer advises the owner, and the dog is treated.
A hematoma is a mass of blood that pools in tissue, caused by an injury, disease, or clotting disorder. Dogs with ear infections may shake their heads violently and cause a hematoma to develop in the earflap. Many times the vet needs to drain these hematomas.
A reputable groomer will always tell the owner when an accident happens. There is no reason to hide a wound. Accidents happen. Dogs are living beings that wiggle and move, and groomers are working with sharp tools. A good groomer will advise the owner of any wounds and wound care and let the owner know if the pet should see a vet.
Matting Issues
Removing matted hair presents unique problems. If a dog has his hair shaved off, he may become itchy after suddenly getting air to the skin. The dog may scratch and injure himself. Some dogs will lick and chew areas of their body because they are simply not accustomed to not having hair there. The groomer should advise the owner these conditions could develop if a dog comes in with very matted fur.
