Matting
We always prioritize the safety and comfort of your pup over the hairstyle.
Mats can hide.
Mats can hide against the skin beneath a top layer of brushed out hair.
Underneath, the mats can be in one carpeted piece up against the skin. This is often referred to as a “pelted” coat.
Mats hurt.
Mats tighten and continually pull on the skin causing pain and itching. Dirt and oils get trapped between this tightly wound hair and the skin. Your pup chews and scratches in an attempt to find relief. This motion along with saliva from chewing and the friction from scratching tighten the mats further and cause more irritation in the skin underneath.
In short, they are uncomfortable, painful, and can cause serious health problems, such as bruising, abrasions, hot spots, and hematomas on the ear flaps.
This picture is of a blood blister caused by pelted mats on the inside and outside of the ear flap. These can be quite dangerous to remove.
Is it dangerous to remove mats?
Mats can lead to sensitive skin and hot spots. Tight mats can tear the skin as they are brushed out, and shaving them out can cause abrasions and even pull on the hair follicle themselves. Some skin irritations can wait to show themselves within hours or days of the removal of mats. Safety is our top priority, and we will be honest about what we feel is appropriate. If we are worried about the removal of mats affecting your pet’s coat, we will speak with you to plan next steps.
Is it “easier” to shave and start over?
Groomers often get asked why we are so “lazy” about removing mats. The truth is that shaving isn’t easier, and it doesn’t take less time. In fact, it dulls equipment far faster, it takes quite a long time to do it safely and properly, and it is quite a stressful process as the groomer avoids cutting skin that has been pulled up into the mat itself.
We will not shave without your permission, but we will always be honest about what we feel is the safest option. If we feel brushing out the mats will cause a lot of pain and/or will be dangerous, we will recommend going shorter. In certain more severe situations, we will even recommend going to your vet to have your dog shaved to be safe.
How do mat fees work?
Removing tightly matted hair breaks down and dulls a groomer’s equipment faster than regular grooming. In addition to these equipment needs, the extra time taken to avoid injuries, especially in heavily pelted dogs, will incur extra fees.
If we are able to save any areas such as the head, face, ears, or tail, we will let you know. If you decide that you wish us to save those areas, this will incur an extra brush out fee due to the time, care, and supplies needed to safely save the hair.
How do I avoid mats?
By brushing on a regular basis with the right tools and the right approaches, pets can remain fairly tangle and mat free. There are quite a few videos online with instructions. Depending on the breed of your pup, their hair texture, and the length you are aiming for, this might mean a longer daily routine which can be quite a time commitment. We recommend considering your lifestyle and schedule before committing to a longer hairstyle.
We are happy to answer questions and give you an in-person tutorial on best practices for your kiddo’s needs. Call us or send us a message to set that up!