Thursday, May 17, 2012

ZZG's Protocol for Ungroomable Pets

 The following is a letter we provide our clients if their pet is deemed a high risk to groom for either itself or the groomer.  Please note that it is the clients decision whether to take or act upon any of our suggestions. AT NO TIME DOES ZOOM ZOOM GROOM ADMINISTER SEDATIVES OR TRANQUILIZERS TO PETS!!!!!!!!!
This protocol has also been shared with the veterinarian clinics in Regina and area.

 

NOT ALL DOGS LOVE TO BE GROOMED................

Zoom Zoom Groom recognizes the importance of a healthy, well groomed pet but there are times when we simply can’t complete a dog due to behavioral issues.  A situation like this may lead us to suggest a visit to your veterinarian for a sedative in which to calm your pet.  Please know this decision is not taken lightly and is discussed as a staff….

Our steps/ criteria for a difficult dog are as follows:

  1. The groomer remains calm- assertive when grooming a dog.  We feel the groomer’s energy is channelled to the dog.  If a groomer is tense we will try another groomer to see if it makes a difference.
  2. If the dog is aggressive (biting) – we muzzle him/her
  3. When struggling with a dog another groomer may assist, trying to calm dog while groomer one is clipping/ scissoring etc.
  4. We try Rescue Remedy (a holistic Bach Flower remedy sold in many health food stores) only with permission from owner.
  5. We give a stressed dog several breaks.
  6. We may have the parents of the dog join us to see if their presence will calm the dog. (It usually doesn’t, but as a last resort we will try).

We will cease grooming if:

The dog is showing signs such as….
  •  heavy breathing
  •  blue tongue
  •  high heart rate
  •  aggression (where the groomer is at risk)
  • Spinning /turning out of control where there is risk of the dog injuring him/herself on the grooming arm etc. 

Should any of these conditions exist, we will make the decision to refer the client to their veterinarian for advice on a sedative. Many dogs, that initially take sedatives, can be weaned of them after several positive grooming experiences, once they establish a repoire with the groomer.  For this we celebrate! Our main goal is to keep both the dog and groomer safe.  We want to groom all dogs as we realize the importance of a well groomed dog from both an aesthetic need and health need.  We also want you to know that we try many different techniques and we do have a policy in place, guiding us as to when we need to suggest a veterinarians help.  This decision is taken seriously and discussed by up to 5 groomers who see/experience the dog’s behavior. 

We thank you and appreciate your understanding.  We truly want to place your dog’s safety first.   Our groomers are using sharp tools and an accident can happen quickly.  We also recognize that the groomer’s career is dependent on their hands, and an aggressive dog can cause harm in a matter of seconds. 

If you are reading this information chances are we feel your pet may benefit from a sedative from your vet.  It is your choice as to whether you feel comfortable with this.  If you have any questions please feel free to phone us at any time.  Should you decide to try a different groomer at a different location, it is important you inform them of your dog’s history, so they can be prepared to help your dog in the most positive way possible.



Sincerely,
Connie Buchanan
& the Staff at Zoom Zoom Groom