Imagine this: You schedule an appointment to groom your beloved dog. Upon arrival, you receive the unfortunate news that the matting on your pup is "too severe to save," necessitating a shave. Many pet owners can relate to this frustrating situation. It’s disheartening to be confronted with the reality that previous grooming efforts were insufficient. At Le Pawsh, we understand the disappointment this brings. It’s never easy for us to deliver such news, as we genuinely care about your pet’s well-being and appearance. Our mission is to provide exquisite haircuts that showcase your dog’s personality, and when a matting situation prevents that, it impacts us just as much. When your dog is matted to a point that requires shaving, we recognize the emotional weight that carries. Our priority is your pet's health; therefore, starting fresh with a new coat is often the best course of action. This decision allows us to ensure a safe, comfortable grooming experience, paving the way for beautiful styles in the future. From the moment you drop off your pup to when you pick them up, they receive a special spa day treatment, crafted with care and artistry. We appreciate your understanding and support as we navigate these challenging grooming situations together, keeping your dog's best interests at heart.

So what is matting and how can we prevent it?

Mats are tangles and knots that cause clumps of hair to become fused together. While not all matting necessitates shaving, it is essential for all forms of matting to receive prompt attention. Breeds with longer hair coats, such as Yorkshire Terriers and Poodles, are particularly susceptible to this issue. If left unmanaged, matting can escalate to the point of requiring a full shave down. The discomfort caused by mats can range from mild irritation to severe pain for your dog. Once a mat forms and is neglected, it can begin to twist the skin, resulting in complications such as irritation, sores, and hematomas, which may require veterinary intervention. Regular grooming and maintenance are vital in preventing matting and ensuring your pet's comfort and health.

Though we all desire a stylish haircut for our dogs, humane treatment must always take precedence. When your groomer or Le Pawsh Stylist indicates that your dog needs to be shaved, there are valid reasons for that decision. If a magical tool existed that could effortlessly remove severe matting, every groomer would possess it. If you happen to create such an invention, I wish you luck on Shark Tank! Attempting to brush out severe mats is not only impractical but also inhumane. Every groomer eventually faces frustration from clients who react negatively when we refuse to cause further suffering to their pets by trying to detangle what cannot be detangled instead of opting for a shave. It’s crucial to remember that your dog's coat will grow back.

There are countless ways that your dog can become matted; the most common are due to improper brushing and inconsistent or infrequent grooming. Friction areas such as the armpits, under the collar, and the ears are particularly susceptible to matting. Depending on the maintenance level of your companion, most pups should be groomed every 3-6 weeks. It is important to keep the coat at a manageable length that aligns with your lifestyle and at-home care capabilities. During seasonal transitions, especially into summer, shedding of the undercoat can accumulate and lead to deep matting. Additionally, if your pup is dealing with fleas or allergies, excessive licking and scratching can create mats as well. For those who choose to bathe their dogs at home or allow them to get wet, it is crucial to ensure thorough drying afterward. Air-drying can leave the fur damp and tangled, which further exacerbates the matting problem.

To avoid all the headaches and discomfort for your pup, you’ll need to invest time and effort. For some, this translates to daily brushing. While brushing might seem straightforward, matting becomes a problem if it’s dismissed as easy. Achieving success in this task requires practice, patience, and integrating it into your daily routine. I recommend the Chris Christensen coral slicker brush and a quality metal comb for all curly-coated breeds. Variations of both tools are available at Le Pawsh, and our staff can guide you through your options during your next visit. The brush features long bristles that reach the skin, effectively lifting deep tangles, while the comb allows you to verify your progress. Always consult your groomer about the best products and techniques for your specific dog!

Obviously, not all dogs face grooming challenges, but for those that do, they require extra care. This includes thorough brushing that reaches the skin throughout every section of their coat—the back, legs, pits, tail, face, and even the rear. Proper grooming not only allows your pup to achieve a fantastic haircut but also significantly improves their comfort and well-being. There are specific techniques for brushing that the team at Le Pawsh can show during your next visit. We will also cover these methods in more detail in an upcoming post. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask!