THIS DOG RIGHT NOW. WHY?

As groomers, we spend time learning about coat types and why they matter. Then a client asks for a double-coated dog to be shaved because “it’s too hot,” “it sheds too much,” or “it’s easier to manage.” We explain that a healthy double coat helps regulate body temperature, but sometimes the answer is, “I want it shaved anyway.” I’ve worked in multiple salons where the policy was educate the client, document that you warned them, and if they still wanted it, do the shave. I don’t agree with that. If I know something has the potential to negatively affect a dog’s coat, I’m not comfortable doing it just because someone insists. My responsibility is to the dog’s well-being, not just to saying yes to every request. That’s why I’ve made a personal decision: unless there’s a legitimate medical reason directed by a veterinarian, I won’t shave a healthy double-coated dog again. If a workplace told me I couldn’t decline that service, I’d respectfully find somewhere else to work. My education and professional judgment should matter, and I don’t want to ignore what I’ve been taught just to complete a service. Clients don’t have to agree with every recommendation, but groomers shouldn’t be expected to go against their knowledge when they believe it isn’t in the dog’s best interest. #grooming #doublecoateddogs #groomer