15/05/2025
Dog Grooming isn’t just a job…………….it’s much more!
It’s a labour of love that brings both joy and heartache. And sometimes, groomers carry more on their shoulders than you might imagine.
When you drop your dog off at the salon and a few hours later, they’re back in your arms - clean, fluffy, and happy. But what about your groomer? What did they go through during those few hours?
Imagine starting your day with a dog that’s terrified - shaking, growling, or hiding under the grooming table. The groomer knows they must remain calm, speak softly, and move slowly to help the dog feel safe. It’s not easy to hide your own nerves when a dog is scared or trying to bite. It’s heartbreaking to see a dog so anxious and not be able to comfort them straight away.
Then there are the moments when they spot something that doesn’t look right - a lump that wasn’t there last time, a patch of sore, irritated skin, or an ear that smells off. They worry about how to tell you without causing alarm. They hope you won’t be upset or blame them. It’s not just about grooming at that point; it’s about caring for your dog’s wellbeing and hoping you’ll trust their judgement.
And when they’ve had to shave a matted coat down to the skin to relieve a dog’s discomfort, they worry you might be angry or upset. Groomers don’t want to let you down. They know how much you love your dog, and they only want to make them feel comfortable and cared for.
But then there’s nothing quite like seeing a dog come into the salon looking dishevelled and leave looking like they’ve just stepped out of a doggy spa. The wagging tail at the end of the groom? That’s the highlight of the day.
And there are the regulars - the dogs that once were timid but now wag their tails as soon as they walk through the door. The shy ones who slowly come out of their shells because the groomer has taken the time to build trust. Those small victories mean the world.
Groomers love seeing the bond strengthen between them and the dogs they groom regularly. The nuzzles, the happy spins, the sleepy eyes after a bath - it’s those little moments that make all the hard work feel worthwhile.
Many dog groomers don’t talk about the days when they go home exhausted - not just physically, but emotionally. They’ve spent hours trying to calm an anxious dog or worrying about whether they handled a health concern the right way. They’ve smiled through the stress of dealing with a challenging dog because they know it’s not the dog’s fault.
When clients don’t understand why a groom took longer or why a coat had to be clipped short, it hurts. Groomers know they’re doing what’s best for the dog, but it can feel disheartening when their expertise is questioned. They put so much love and care into every groom, and they just want you to know that they’re always acting in your dog’s best interest.
For every tough day, there’s a moment of pure joy - a dog snuggling into their arms after a groom, a grateful owner who leaves a kind review, or a nervous dog who finally trusts them enough to lie still during a trim.
Groomers do what they do because they love dogs. It’s that simple. They care deeply about the well-being of every dog that walks through their doors, and they take pride in their work. It’s not just about making dogs look good - it’s about making them feel good too.
If you’ve found a groomer who treats your dog with love and care, let them know! A simple thank-you, a thoughtful review, or even a small tip can make a world of difference. When they mention a concern, listen. They’re not trying to worry you - they just care enough to speak up.
Next time you pick up your beautifully groomed dog, take a moment to appreciate the person behind the scissors. Groomers do far more than just make your dog look good - they’re your dog’s friend, carer, and sometimes even their health guardian.
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Credit to British Dog Groomers’ Association
