Dog owners urged taking their pet to groomers as it could save their lives

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Groomer Lucy Baker, from Hertfordshire, says regular visits to the groomer could save your dog’s life by detecting illnesses early, stressing that despite popular belief it’s “not a luxury, it’s a necessity”.

A groomer is reminding dog owners to groom their pets regularly as it could catch diseases, including cancer, early and potentially save their lives.

tuft Ambassador Lucy Baker, of Shaggy & Chic Grooming Salon in Hertfordshire, says grooming is “so important to the overall health and happiness” of the nation’s canines.

Every non-shedding dog needs regular grooming to prevent matting, bacterial infections, clogged pores, rashes and skin pinching.

Lucy told The Mirror: “Regular dog grooming isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.”

To emphasize the importance of regular pet grooming, Lucy has listed seven reasons why every owner should routinely take their pet to a groomer.

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Groomers see your dog more than vets do

Oftentimes, your dog will visit a groomer more often than the vets, which means they can pick up on multiple health issues, prevent them from occurring in the first place, and treat minor issues.

“We, of course, examine every inch of your pet’s body and can spot even the tiniest bumps and bumps,” Lucy said.

You’re examining areas you’re not allowed to

From the anal glands to the nails and ears, groomers examine areas of your dog’s body that you’re not allowed to.

Lucy said: “These are all areas that need to be watched. Overgrown nails can cause joint problems and pain, overcrowded glands can cause infection and problems with bowel movements.

“Hair growing in a dog’s ear canal often needs plucking to prevent infection.”

You will see weight loss or gain

Groomers will see your dog on a regular basis and often weigh your dog at each visit.

“Sudden weight gain or loss can be an indicator of a disease like Cushing’s or thyroid. Since you see your dog every day, you might not have noticed,” Lucy said.

Think of it as a general health check

A blow dry doesn’t just make your dog pretty — it’s almost like a full body MOT.

“Believe it or not, fleas can actually be incredibly difficult to spot since they hide just under the skin,” Lucy said.

“As we blow dry the dogs, we can see the fur bits and every inch of your dog’s skin. We look for moles, dry patches, rashes and anything unusual.”

It’s an opportunity for socialization

It is good for your dog to experience different environments and people and interact with other dogs without its owner.

“I’ve lost the number of owners who are amazed their dog has socialized with a variety of different dogs as they are usually grumpy,” Lucy said.

“With neutral territory and no owner to protect, it’s surprising how relaxed dogs can be.”

Dogs feel better after a groomer

Your dog will benefit tremendously from being thoroughly cleaned and brushed.

“Even short-haired dogs feel refreshed after a good bath and blow-dry,” said Lucy.

“This is because the powerful blow dryers are very good at blowing away any dust or dander that is lodged in the dog’s skin that may have been irritating.”

You see dozens of dogs every day

Most groomers are experienced handlers who have worked with dogs for years.

“We can counsel on behavior issues, recommend sitters and walkers, and address behavior issues that you may not even know need treatment,” Lucy said.

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