In humans, one of the most well-known super bugs is MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus). In pets, a similar super bug exists called MRSP (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius). MRSP infections are particularly concerning because they can be challenging to treat. Many antibiotics that work for typical Staph infections are ineffective against MRSP. The few remaining options tend to be more expensive and can cause severe side effects. Therefore, treating MRSP requires a careful and cautious approach.

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.

Drug-resistant bacteria can spread easily between pets and humans. Staph bacteria, including MRSP, are part of the normal flora on the skin. They typically don’t cause problems unless the skin becomes stressed, injured or inflamed. However, if the bacteria on your skin or a pet’s skin are resistant to antibiotics, treating an infection becomes far more complicated.

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.

If a pet is on long-term antibiotics, it’s crucial to balance their gut health with probiotics. Antibiotics kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria, which can lead to gut imbalances. When recommending probiotics to pet owners, ensure they choose products with live cultures that can survive stomach acid and reach the intestines. This helps restore the natural balance of bacteria in the pet’s body, reducing the risk of further infections.

As a groomer, you play a vital role in preventing the spread of super bugs. Implementing proper hygiene and safety measures, such as the following, can significantly reduce your risk and the risk to the pets in your care.

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.

The symptoms of MRSP are similar to other skin infections, making it difficult to identify without proper testing. Common signs include:

• 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.

Many veterinarians skip culture and sensitivity tests due to cost concerns. However, these tests are crucial for identifying drug-resistant bacteria and determining the right treatment. Without testing, there’s a risk of prescribing ineffective antibiotics, which can worsen the problem.

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.

Drug-resistant bacteria are not just a problem for individual pets and their owners—they have broader public health implications. If resistant bacteria spread widely, it becomes increasingly difficult to treat even minor infections. This highlights the importance of responsible antibiotic use and proper hygiene practices.

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.