04/12/2025
As a dog lover and groomer, it is heartbreaking to see dogs able to get to this state of severe matting.
It is important to check your dog's coat frequently for prickles and mats, even if you are frequently brushing as sometimes, you are not brushing deep enough to pe*****te the mat and you may still not know there are there at the skin they are so thick.
Being rural, prickles are a long coat's nightmare. They will get in and tangle that coat up very quickly. If the prickle or grass seed is able to get to the skin, it can be painful - like you walking with a prickle in your sock or a stone in your shoe.
Swimming dogs - another common thing that causes mats, especially around the neck, thighs, pants and tail. Pool water is very drying, same with sea water. Salt water can also leave a sticky feel and the sand can get in and be abraisive. It is always a good idea after a visit to the ocean, to rinse your dog off in clean water and wash that sand and salt out.
Spraying those problem areas with a conditioner spray, anti static or anti detangle spray and brushing the area can also help reduce mats from forming.
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The severity of mats. Mats are more than just a tangle in your dogs coat. A lot of people are unaware just how detrimental a mat is. Here is some knowledge on mats that will be quite the eye opener.
1. Mats pull on the skin.
2. They harbor bacteria, dead skin, debri and can smell.
3. They can create sores and wounds underneath.
4. Mats in the paw pads or armpits can change your dogs gait.
5. They are painful just existing. Creates bad blood circulation and can cause the blood to rush back to that area when removed. Hematomas. Bruising.
Removing mats:
1. Removing mats by brushing them out takes ALOT of time. And therefore costs more money.
2. Brushing them out still damages that hair.
3. Cutting them out can be dangerous especially if done by a non professional and will leave holes in the coat.
4. Clipping them out is still a lot of time, stressful and painful as the mats are pulled and tugged. It takes a very close (short) cut to get underneath mats to get them out. About 1/4 inch of coat will be left or bald spots.
5. When your dog needs the groomer to remove mats they are not set up for success. It is far more difficult to remain calm, comfortable and cooperative
