Do vets groom Dogs? (Find Out)

Pet grooming is the work of professional groomers who are certified in grooming or have experience grooming dogs at pet salons or clinics. But many people wonder: do vets groom dogs?

Although grooming is not typically within the scope of a veterinarian's primary responsibilities, there are instances where they do engage in grooming, particularly when certain medical conditions are present. Conditions such as blood spots, skin diseases like ringworms and mange, and skin allergies can prompt vets to address grooming aspects.

In cases where a dog's medical well-being is at stake, veterinarians may perform grooming procedures to alleviate discomfort or address specific issues. This could involve trimming or cleaning affected areas to facilitate healing or prevent further complications.

Moreover, there are situations where a dog's temperament poses a challenge. If a dog exhibits extreme aggressiveness during grooming sessions, to the point where it becomes difficult or unsafe to perform the grooming without causing undue stress or potential harm to the animal or the groomer, veterinarians might step in.

In such scenarios, both the dog and the professionals involved in the grooming can benefit from sedation or other appropriate measures.

9 Instances When a Vet May do Grooming

Addressing the hygiene and health of pets often involves various grooming techniques, even if they might be unappetizing. Fur can hinder a pet's well-being, and veterinarians have strategies to navigate these situations.

1. The "Sanitary Clip"

For excessively hairy cats and dogs, shaving the but area is a common solution to prevent pop from sticking to hair. This helps prevent issues like UTIs and constipation due to hair obstructing vital exits. Maintaining hygiene with a trimmed behind is crucial.

2. Sedation Requirement

Pets with challenging attitudes might need sedation or even anesthesia for grooming. If pets react aggressively to grooming tools, seeking professional help becomes necessary to ensure their safety and well-being.

3. Tick Infestation

Dealing with a pet heavily infested with ticks requires a designated space for urgent tick removal. Despite its revolting nature, this service is offered, often billed by the hour due to its complexity.

4. Vaccination Concerns

Groomers usually avoid unvaccinated pets, except in mobile settings. Veterinary professionals may perform a few clip jobs to prevent matting, but no elaborate styling is provided.

5. Specialized medical Drips

Specialized dips are administered in-house for pets with mange mites or ringworm. While some clients attempt these at home, veterinarians recommend professional care due to potential side effects and unpleasant odors from sulfur-based dips.

6. Addressing Hot Spots and Ringworm

Clipper blades are employed to manage hot spots or ringworm lesions. In severe cases, complete shaving might be necessary to facilitate effective treatment without hair obstruction.

7. Taking care of the "Blind Dog" bangs

Long bangs obstructing pets' vision are not practical. Adjusting breed-specific cuts for pets' visibility is crucial. Trimming bangs are offered at no charge to ensure pets can see clearly.

8. Managing Eye and Ear Issues

Clipping hair near the eyes and proper ear hair plucking are essential for pets' eye health and hearing, respectively. Neglecting these aspects can lead to discomfort and problems.

9. Surgical, IV Catheter, and Ultrasound Clips

Veterinary facilities commonly perform grooming for medical procedures. Though some pet owners may contest these clippings, they are temporary and necessary for medical care, especially if the pet is not participating in a show.

In veterinary care, grooming plays a vital role in maintaining pets' health and well-being. From addressing infestations to ensuring proper hygiene, these techniques are essential for a pet's overall quality of life.

How much do vets charge for grooming?

The grooming charges are typically standardized, and if there are underlying medical issues, those expenses are integrated into the overall treatment cost. For individuals solely seeking grooming services, the fee exclusively covers the grooming procedures without additional medical expenses.

This approach ensures transparent pricing and differentiates between routine grooming and instances where medical attention is required.