Grooming Brushes, Combs & Other Equipment
Rubber mitts and pads
Rubber mitts and brushes can be used to remove loose or moulting hair from short or smooth coated breeds. Often normal brushing is insufficient to remove hair on breeds such as Labradors and Jack Russells.The glove generally has two surfaces depending on the length of the coat . They are generally used on the coat using small circular movements working from the back of the dog towards the front going against the grain of the coat Following use they should be washed in warm soapy water and then sterilised using the UV steriliser.
Brushes
There are a variety of brushes that can be used on coats. Some breeds, such as Poodles require Slicker brush only whilst others such as Spaniels require both a Slicker brush and a softer bristle brush . The Slicker works by separating the individual coat hairs whilst stretching the hair to remove curls - this method is sometimes known as 'carding'. Slicker brushes are available in a variety of sizes with teeth of different lengths and density. Care should always be taken when using to avoid over brushing and irritating the skin and causing 'Brush Burn'- often caused through vigorous over brushing on an area which irritates the skin. The brush can be used working either up or down the body, brushing upwards from the hair root in layers. Pin brushes are generally used on thinner coats or those that have little or no undercoat. The pins are set into a rubber cushion and help to separate the coat without removing it . They do not tend to be used on coats that are matted or severely knotted. They work well when used on double coats and help to lift the coat . They are best used working from behind the head from one shoulder across the back to the opposite shoulder working in layers.
Other types of brushes include nylon brushes, bristle or part bristle brushes and combination brushes.
De-matting tools & Matt Breakers
De-matting tools and brushes are used dependent on groomer's preference . The tools split up and separate knots, matts and tangles. These type of tools need to be used with caution as they are extremely sharp and contain single or double blades. Matt breakers are grooming tools which have short teeth and are generally used on medium length coats. They literally slice through the knots and tangles and remove them from the coat. These tools need to be cleaned carefully after use and dried thoroughly before being sterilised and stored ideally in a separate labelled drawer with the teeth covered with a protective cover.
Combs
Once most of the matts and tangles have been removed then the coat is combed out. Combs divide the hair and further reduce knots and tangles. They generally have different tooth spacing- extra fine, fine, medium and wide . The wider the spacing between the teeth the more hair passes through the gaps in the teeth . It is recommended that initially a wider toothed comb is used working down towards a finer one depending on the thickness of the coat . Coats should be combed through prior to bathing and after bathing. The length of the teeth is also influenced by the length and thickness of the coat
Shampoo & Products
When using shampoos it is important to consider the type of coat, and the condition of the skin . The pH balance of the dog's skin is generally between 5.5 and 7.2 whereas the humans skin is 4.5 -6.0. This means that the dog's skin is more alkaline than a humans skin. Shampoos, soaps and detergents can cause irritation and damage to skins. Shampoos contain cleaning agents known as surfactants. One part of this contains a water attracting part whilst the other attracts dirt and grease removing this from the coat when it is used. Shampoos are generally broken into five general types:
Cleansing- These contain agents that clean and degrease . They create lots of bubbles and lather and encourage the removal of dirt particles and grease along with dead skin to be removed from the skin and coat.
Medicated- These shampoos generally contain anti- bacterial properties and products that help to reduce itchiness or flaking skin. They are ideal for skins that suffer from dermatitis
Mild- These shampoos tend to be neutral or hypo allergenic . They are ideal for frequently bathed dogs or those with sensitive skin and cause least irritation. Mild shampoos tend to be ideal for puppy coats as well.
Insecticidal or anti parasitic - These shampoos are generally used on dogs that come in to be bathed and found to have fleas or other ecto parasites. It is important to ensure correct PPE is worn when using them.
Veterinary- Prescribed veterinary shampoo contains specific medications or compounds that are prescribed for individual dogs . It is important to follow the individual instructions for use
Grooming Products
There is a whole range of grooming and styling products that can be used. It is recommended that manufacturer's instructions are always followed when using these and that the products selected are safe and suitable for use on dogs.
Caution should be used when using these around the head area or if the dog has any medical issues or conditions that might be affected by using them. Under the Duty of Care and welfare legislation it is the responsibility of the groomer to ensure the health and wellbeing of dogs whilst at the grooming establishment.
Bathing
A dog is bathed for a number of reasons - it helps to remove dirt and debris, keeps the skin and coat healthy and clean , and helps to prepare the coat for clipping and styling.
Bathing a dog should be part of a Grooming Routine and can be carried out in a variety of ways. Generally the following routine is followed by most Establishments:
o Select and prepare the shampoo according to the coat type, skin condition , colour and in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
o Collect all the required equipment needed and prepare the grooming table
o Transport the dog and lift it correctly and safely according to its size, temperament, and age into the bathing area. If necessary get assistance to help lift the dog into the bath ensuring there is a non-slip mat to avoid it slipping over in the bottom of the bath. Ensure record cards are checked regarding any medical conditions or problems prior to moving.
o Ensure the dog is safely and securely restrained in the bath or shower Run the water and check it is at a suitable temperature for use
o Wet the dog from bottom to head and apply the diluted shampoo from bottom to head
o Rinse the dog from bottom to head
o Repeat the shampoo and rinse steps
o Check the coat is free from shampoo and complete the final rinse
o Remove excess water using an absorbent cloth or towel
o Blast the dog either in the bath or remove to an appropriate area and blast to remove excess water ensuring it is suitably restrained for its size, temperament and age.
o Reassure the dog throughout.