Don’t take your dog here to be groomed! I just picked up my sweet Princess Lily and when they brought her out to me, I didn’t believe it was my dog. She was shaved bald!

My Lily is an F1b Australian Golden Doodle. The breeder told me her hair shouldn’t be cut until she was a year old. So, for her first birthday, I took her in and told the groomer that I wanted just a little trim, especially by her eyes and her butt.

When I picked her up, ALL of her hair was gone. The groomer said her hair was matted and she had to be clipped that short. No way, I brush her all the time!

They have ruined my sweet Princess Lily. Now she’s embarrassed and hiding. She’s shaking her head and the ends of her ears have blood on them.

I’m taking Lily to her veterinarian right now…then I am calling my attorney. This so-called pet stylist needs to be shut down so she can’t butcher any other precious pups!

Wendy couldn’t believe what she was reading—that’s not at all what happened. When this woman brought her dog in, Wendy checked her in, noticing the dog had never been groomed and was pelted. Wendy showed the client the matting and told her that the dog would have to clipped short all over. Even though the woman wasn’t happy, she agreed.

When she picked up her dog, Lily’s owner caused a huge scene. She screamed when she saw her dog and started to cry. She denied that she gave Wendy permission to clip the hair off her “rare” dog. She kept shrieking that Wendy ruined her dog, so now she would ruin Wendy. She refused to pay, took her dog and left.

Unfortunately, Wendy is not alone. Every day we see posts on social media bashing groomers and accusing them of injuring pets. What could Wendy, and others, have done to prevent these damaging reviews of their business?

In today’s world, groomers have to plan for their safety and put procedures in place to safeguard their livelihood. Protecting yourself starts during your first contact with a potential client.

When a client—especially a first-time one—arrives for their appointment, have the owner present when you check in the pet. As you examine the pet, point out and document any problems like matting or other issues, such as ear odor or inflammation, feces stuck to the rear end, fleas, etc.

Good communication between the owner and stylist is vital for a positive outcome. Ask them how they want their pet groomed and clearly explain if it is, or is not, possible. Take the time to discuss in detail what will be done during the grooming process.

Matted pets are one of the most frequent issue groomers are presented with. Have before and after photos showing matted pet clip-downs. If possible, have a piece of pelted hair to show owners as well. Point out how the top of the coat can look brushed out but underneath it is a solid mat.

Make sure the owner understands what you will be doing to their pet. Have every owner sign a consent/release form. If they refuse, don’t groom the pet. There is a consent/release form for nearly every situation: General Pet Release, Matted Pet, Senior Pet, Double-Coated Pet, Creative Color, Pet Safety, Cat Grooming, Mobile Salon, Social Media, Cage Dryer and more. These can be purchased at www.barkleighstore.com or you can make your own.

In addition to having signed releases for every pet you groom, it’s imperative to have insurance coverage and also to take photos and videos to protect yourself. If the pet has any skin abrasions or issues, growths, ear redness or odor—anything out of the ordinary—document it. If possible, video the entire groom. That is irrefutable proof of everything that happened during the grooming process. Also have cameras inside and outside your salon or mobile unit to protect yourself.

Rich, a groomer who has a salon about 20 miles from Wendy, recently had an incident that could have had a totally different outcome if he had not been prepared…

Luckily, Rich has cameras inside as well as outside of his salon. When he viewed the footage of the day, he could clearly see that the dog was not limping when it left the salon. He saw the owner open the back of his SUV and tell the dog to “load up.” The dog attempted to jump in but didn’t make it. It fell to the pavement with a sharp yelp. The owner quickly picked him up, tossed him in the car and left.

After Rich viewed the videos, he called the owner, related what he saw, and calmly invited the owner to come to the salon and view the footage. The owner quickly hung up and Rich never heard from him again.

If Wendy had taken photos or a video of Princess Lily’s groom, and had a signed release, Lily’s owner might have been less likely to leave the bad review. And, even if she had, Wendy would have had proof of the condition of the dog when it came into her salon, proof that the owner gave consent and proof that the dog was uninjured when it left the salon.

Do yourself a big favor and be like Rich—protect yourself!

As a groomer, you may encounter dogs and cats with MRSP infections without even realizing it. The bacteria look like any other skin infection, making it difficult to identify without a veterinary culture and sensitivity test. These tests are essential for determining which antibiotics, if any, will work against the specific strain of bacteria.

Groomers are at a higher risk of exposure to these bacteria due to their close contact with multiple pets daily. Here are some key points to understand about the risks:

1. High-Risk Pets: Pets on long-term antibiotics or with compromised immune systems are more likely to harbor drug-resistant bacteria.
2. Frequent Exposure: Groomers who work with pets suffering from chronic skin issues are more likely to come into contact with MRSP.
3. Human Risk: Up to 4% of people working with pets, including groomers, may contract MRSP.
4. Hidden Threat: Many groomers may have already been exposed to MRSP without knowing it.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear gloves, eye protection and face masks when handling pets with visible skin infections. Water sprays can aerosolize bacteria, making it easier to inhale them or spread them to surfaces.
2. Clean and Disinfect Equipment: Your grooming tools—such as scissors, brushes, clippers and recirculation systems—can become breeding grounds for bacteria if not properly cleaned. Disinfect all equipment between each pet to prevent cross-contamination.
3. Schedule Infected Pets Last: If you know a pet has a skin infection, try to schedule them as the last appointment of the day. This minimizes the risk of spreading bacteria to other pets and gives you time to do a thorough cleaning afterward.
4. Maintain Clean Workspaces: Cleanliness is critical in preventing the spread of super bugs. Disinfect grooming tables, tubs, cages, towels and any other surfaces that come into contact with pets. A good rule of thumb is to clean after every pet.

• Red, inflamed skin
• Pustules or boils
• Hair loss around the infected area
• Itching and irritation

If you notice a pet with these symptoms, advise the owner to consult their veterinarian for a culture and sensitivity test. Identifying the bacteria early can prevent the spread and ensure appropriate treatment.

Encourage pet owners to prioritize testing, especially if their pet has a recurring skin infection. While the upfront cost may be higher, it can save time, money and frustration in the long run by ensuring the right treatment is used from the start.

Super bugs like MRSP are a growing concern in both human and veterinary medicine. As a groomer, understanding the risks and taking appropriate precautions can help protect you and the pets in your care. By implementing proper hygiene practices, promoting responsible antibiotic use and staying informed, you can reduce the risk of spreading drug-resistant bacteria and ensure a safer environment for everyone involved.

Dr. Cliff Faver graduated with a BS in Biology/BA in Chemistry before getting a Veterinary degree in 1987. He is the past owner of Animal Health Services in Cave Creek, Arizona and now the US distributor for Iv San Bernard products, teaches the ISB Pet Aesthetician Certification program, and speaks internationally on hair and skin. His passion is to merge groomers and veterinarians to aid in helping and healing pets. He is also a member of AVMA, AAHA, AZVMA, Board member with Burbank Kennel Club, and has served on Novartis Lead Committee, Hill’s International Global Veterinary Board, and a Veterinary Management Group.

hen it comes to pet grooming, safety is a cornerstone of the client-groomer relationship. Pet parents want to feel confident that their beloved companions are in good hands, and groomers must prioritize transparency and trust. Communicating safety measures effectively not only builds client confidence, but also fosters long-term loyalty and mutual respect. Here’s how groomers can communicate their safety practices in a professional and engaging manner.

For example, explain how you assess each pet’s needs before starting, including a physical check for skin conditions, matting or sensitivities. Share how these evaluations inform your grooming approach, such as choosing hypoallergenic shampoos or adjusting clippers to prevent irritation. This demonstrates that safety is integral to every step of your service.

This is the interaction that they’re going to remember during the grooming process until they pick up their pet. You can use this step to ease their mind and gain professional trust.

Also explain how your training ensures you’re educated in the latest grooming techniques and safety practices. For instance, you might say: “Our team regularly attends workshops on pet safety, including CPR for animals, to ensure we’re prepared for any situation.” Such statements show your dedication to safety while positioning you as a leader in the field.  

If a pet becomes stressed during grooming, explain the situation to the owner. For example: “Max was a bit anxious during his nail trim, so we took extra breaks to keep him calm. While we couldn’t complete the trim today, I recommend a gradual desensitization plan to help him feel more comfortable.”  

This approach reassures clients that their pet’s wellbeing is your priority, even when it means adjusting expectations. Forcing pets through may sound like a good idea to complete the service for the customer, but in reality it is not safe, and the hero mentality is not worth it in the end. Open transparency sets the pet up for future success and provides a chance to build trust with a client that understands the pet’s needs.

This approach validates their feelings while demonstrating your commitment to finding solutions. Not every concern needs to be met with a defensive approach—oftentimes in my career when I’ve been receptive of concerns, the client is more willing to hear the solutions.

Listening and acting on feedback demonstrates your dedication to exceptional care.

Communicating safety to pet grooming clients is not just about listing protocols; it’s about building trust through consistent, transparent and empathetic communication. By educating clients, showcasing your expertise and addressing concerns proactively, you can create a safe and welcoming environment that fosters long-term relationships with both pets and their owners.

In a business where trust is everything, prioritizing safety communication is a win for everyone involved. You’ll find that with these tactics you will earn the trust your professionalism deserves and have happier client relationships.

I also highly recommend everyone take a business course at a local community college, in person or online. These classes are affordable, not academically difficult, and can even be taken for no college credit. A business class will stand you in good stead all your life in helping you keep your own financial records, do your taxes, work safely and profitably, or grow your own economic security.

Many groomers still work for cash, which is illegal when not reported as income. Many employers pressure groomers to skirt the law with them by mutually agreeing to not treat the groomer as a legal employee, putting both at risk. Other trade industries such as beauticians, plumbers, and electricians have become more regulated and even licensed. This regulation and licensure is surely coming our way and has already been proposed in several states.

Groomers are subject to all the same federal and state labor laws as everyone else. If you are a business owner who has other staff working for you and do not have the current year’s federal and state labor law poster hanging on your wall, you are in violation of the law. These can be purchased for a nominal fee each year.

Employers must abide by laws regarding medical leave, paid time off (PTO), hours worked, minimum wage, overtime rules and mandatory reporting. Many states have requirements unique to that state, such as a requirement for annual sexual harassment training for all staff in a workplace. Your local or state Chambers of Commerce may be able to guide you, or you can call your county government officials. Your county animal control may have regulations applicable to your business as well.

Without a doubt, in a service industry like ours, labor is always the business owner’s highest percentage of expenses…and owners are always trying to find ways to cut costs. But workers’ rights must be respected, because these workers are the ones enabling the owners to make money. A good relationship between owners, managers and workforce will mean more productivity, more loyalty and higher-quality work. A stressed workforce invariably produces lower-quality work and reduces productivity.

All grooming businesses with employees, no matter where they are located, must have Worker’s Compensation insurance. Check requirements in your area. Also, Sole Proprietorships must pay half of their Social Security and Medicare for themselves throughout the year. This requirement cannot be ignored, and it will benefit you years from now. Business licenses are also usually required, but find out if it is by county, city or state in your area.

Groomers must comply with all zoning issues and local ordinances, even if they are working from their home. Find out what zoning and local ordinances apply to you. We must also set up and pay sales tax if we have any retail items such as grooming tools, treats or pet supplies.

There are often environmental requirements in most localities. These could affect trash removal and how you manage cleanliness, waste, sanitation, etc. You also must have appropriate types and numbers of fire extinguishers on premises and know how to use them. Fire extinguishers must be inspected and tagged regularly to ensure they are always working. Regular fire marshal inspections are generally required as well, no matter where your business is set up to operate from.

The American Kennel Club, International Professional Groomers and other pet industry organizations offer voluntary, but valuable, safety certifications for individual groomers and salons. These grooming-industry-based credentials are not legally required, but they do enhance your expertise and are a great thing to brag to your clients about, setting you apart from competitors.

Do not try to avoid paying taxes—it is truly a no-win situation for you. As the gentleman on the phone with the Illinois Commerce Commission told me, they are “on to us,” and they know that our industry has a legacy culture of working for cash under the table. If you are found guilty of not paying taxes, or violating labor laws or other legal requirements, you can be fined and put out of business, as well as held personally liable, which means your home and possessions could be at risk.

Many grooming businesses, however, still are using this model illegally. When businesses illegally pay groomers as independent contractors, it places the responsibility on the groomers to report the income on their personal taxes. Groomers often do not even know their obligations, so they end up as a tax cheat either knowingly or out of ignorance of the law, which we all know is no excuse. Workers new to the country are especially vulnerable.

If we do any remodeling, building or improvements, we must get a building permit as required by law. Building codes can be local, county, state or national. No matter where you groom, you are responsible for following codes that are applicable to where you are doing your grooming.

Carrying business and/or liability insurance may or may not be required, but it certainly is a good idea if want to keep your business. There are myriad of laws that could affect what we do every day, especially since we work with animals. Some states, for example, have bite laws that require them all to be reported, no matter the severity of the bite. A pet getting sick or injured, or worse; or a person getting injured on your premises, could happen at any time.

To learn more about the many miscellaneous laws that can affect you, consult with local Chambers of Commerce or an attorney, or search on your state’s legislative websites using keywords or search terms for laws that might affect you. Better yet, join your state grooming association or form one if your state does not yet have one. Contact the World Alliance of Grooming Associations (WAGA)¹ and they will help your state to create a grooming association if it does not have one.

The problem we face is the urge people often have to increase their earnings by cheating the government and the public coffers by doing something illegal or taking advantage of their employees. Instead, be knowledgeable and be proud that you are the kind of person who knows and follows the law with integrity. Laws are a public good, and everyone following them makes life safer and better for all of us.

1. World Alliance of Grooming Associations Inc. https://waga.wildapricot.org/

We all have a horror story of sorts of an uncomfortable encounter with a client—some of us more than one. Here is one of mine: I was grooming a new Golden Retriever while the dog’s owners hosted a party. The male owner came into my grooming van, holding a beer, and obviously a little drunk. I then realized I didn’t know anyone at that party and wondered if anyone would even help if I called for assistance. Fortunately, he didn’t care for bumping into the sharp end of my scissors, which were pointed in his direction, and he left without incident. But that could have been a different story, and I instituted many changes from that day forward.

While I wish I could say that this behavior is uncommon, it’s been the topic of many of our industry podcasts. So, how can we reduce or eliminate these human horror stories?

• USCCA’s Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws by State. https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/

Shedding is another concern. Beyond just being an annoyance to owners, excessive shedding contributes to hairballs, which can sometimes cause dangerous blockages. Other common grooming concerns include overgrown nails (leading to ingrown claws or breakage), flea infestations, dandruff, and even litter box debris clinging to the fur. So, while cats may try to keep themselves clean, professional groomers play an essential role in their overall care—especially as they age.

Matted fur is another frequent concern, even in short-haired seniors. Because cat skin and coat changes with age and they tend to groom themselves less due to arthritis or mobility issues, their coats can quickly become clumped and matted. However, shaving a fragile senior can be risky; thin skin is more prone to injury, and extensive mat removal can cause unnecessary stress. If shaving is necessary, it must be done with extreme care.

Preventative grooming is the best strategy for senior cats. Regular bathing, blow-drying, and combing can help manage shedding and prevent painful mats from forming. When introduced gradually, many senior cats can tolerate and even enjoy regular professional grooming, which makes a huge difference in their comfort and overall health.

Health conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, kidney disease or heart problems also become more common, all of which can affect coat and body condition. Professional groomers should be aware of these changes and alert owners if they have not had the changes checked by their veterinarian. Additionally, the grooming routine may need adjusted to accommodate any health conditions.

Routine grooming can help keep seniors comfortable. For long-haired breeds, a trim or sanitary cut may prevent hygiene issues around the rear, while some may need full haircuts like a Lion Cut (whether removing or preventing mats) or a Comb Cut (can only be done with no matting). The key is to establish a grooming schedule before serious problems arise—waiting until matting, skin irritation or nail issues appear only increases stress for the cat.

For adults with high-maintenance coats, regular bathing and professional grooming prevent future matting and excessive shedding. Persians, Maine Coons and other long-haired breeds benefit from regular appointments to keep their coats in good shape.

At this stage, owners often seek grooming services due to excessive shedding, skin issues or coat contamination (e.g., a cat getting into something sticky or dirty). Adult cats may also require flea treatment baths, medicated shampoos or sanitary trims to prevent fecal matter from clinging to their fur. The best approach to grooming adults is establishing a consistent schedule, which prevents severe matting or coat neglect that could make grooming more difficult in their later years.

This is the age range where many owners first bring in their cats due to unexpected matting. Breeds like Persians, Ragdolls and Siberians are especially prone to developing tight tangles during this period. Even short-haired cats with dense undercoats can experience increased shedding and clumping.

Professional grooming is crucial at this stage, as gentle de-matting and de-shedding treatments and routine trims can prevent long-term coat issues. Educating owners about regular brushing and scheduling follow-up grooming sessions can ensure their cat’s coat remains manageable into adulthood. Remember, matting is not a one-time thing—if the cat has mats at this age, they will need ongoing help with their coat and grooming needs.

Bathing kittens is relatively simple when done correctly, using warm water, gentle handling and hypoallergenic shampoo. A soft towel and a low-noise blow-dryer can help keep them comfortable during drying. Nail trims should be introduced regularly, as kitten nails grow quickly and can cause scratches if left too long.

The key to grooming kittens is making it a positive experience. Gentle handling, rewards and short sessions can set them up for a lifetime of stress-free grooming.

Regardless of age, every cat benefits from regular grooming. A well-maintained coat reduces health risks, prevents painful matting and keeps cats comfortable. The key to success is early introduction and consistency—starting young and maintaining a regular schedule helps cats tolerate grooming well into their senior years.

For professional groomers, understanding how grooming needs change over time allows us to provide the best possible care for our feline clients. Whether working with a wiggly kitten, a stubborn adult or a fragile super-senior, each stage requires a tailored approach. Educating owners on proper home maintenance and the importance of preventative grooming ensures happier, healthier cats and less stress for everyone involved.