The importance of a groomer for therapy dogs
The number of pet owners (and dogs) participating in pet therapy programs at schools and hospitals is growing across the country. Over the past few decades, the use of dogs in therapy has surged in popularity. This rise came when recognition grew of the therapeutic benefits of our friendly canines. It is estimated that there are more than 50,000 therapy dogs in the U.S. right now. These working dogs need to be in top shape to do their work safely and comfortably. That’s where professional groomers come in.
Photo by Ryan Stone on Unsplash
Therapy dogs who spend time with patients and children should be professionally groomed regularly to be sure their hygiene is the best it can be. Many pet therapy programs require regular bathing before visits.
“Getting your dog regularly groomed is essential to ensure your therapy visits are as safe as possible—for the dogs and the patients,” said Elizabeth Toc, co-owner of the Tailored Tail. “It is an honor to care for these therapy dogs and help the owners with the strict grooming responsibilities that come along with the ‘job’ for the pet.”
Therapy dogs have specific grooming needs based on their roles:
Frequent Public Interaction: They require a clean, confident and polished appearance.
Calming Presence: Pick a groomer who knows how to groom a dog in a stress-free environment.
Varied Environments: These dogs are exposed to hospitals, schools, and other health care facilities which means they encounter contaminants and allergens.
According to the Alliance for Therapy dogs, professional dog groomers can help you ensure your dog feels fresh and healthy before their next therapy dog visit. Every facility looks for its therapy dogs to be well-groomed so they don’t spread grime and dirt around the facility.
Toc says regular bathing is required before some visits and can be too much for an owner sometimes. “Groomers don’t always have to do the full-service grooming as they are also a good choice for thorough bathing of your dog.”
She says maintaining a healthy coat also makes for a better therapy dog, and a regular visit to the groomer prevents matting, infections, odors and allow for better temperature control for the hard-working pet. Therapy dogs should not be distracted by problems with their fur, nails or ears, she said.
Also, professional groomers are often the first to spot medical problems for dogs, which is another great reason or working therapy dogs to be seen by professional groomers more often. Regular grooming means someone is looking closely at the dog’s body, looking out for any medical issues that can be detected early.