Twelve Checks Before Pet Grooming
Pet groomers have a very demanding job and also bear extremely important responsibilities. Why? Because during grooming, groomers can perform a complete basic check on the dog. Many pet diseases are also discovered in time by pet groomers. So, what important checks must groomers perform before the regular bathing process?
Eyes: For breeds like Bichon Frise and Teddy with finer tear glands, special attention should be paid to abnormal secretions. If abnormal, seek medical treatment promptly; for ordinary breeds, watch for ingrown eyelashes, tear stains, etc.; elderly dogs should be checked for cataracts, glaucoma, and other symptoms and treated promptly.

Ears: Check if the ears are clean, if there is any abnormal odor, scratches, or excessive secretions. Perform thorough cleaning and treat promptly; check the outer ears for scratch marks or scabs, scales on ear edges, and consult a veterinarian promptly.

Mouth: Check for bad breath, red or swollen gums, tartar buildup, or double rows of teeth. If any abnormal symptoms appear, consult a veterinarian timely to avoid affecting normal eating and worsening conditions.
Nose: Check if the nose is moist, if its color is normal, and if there is hair loss, redness, or swelling around the nose.
Fur: Observe if the fur is dry, shiny, and sufficiently nourished. If abnormalities appear, consult a veterinarian or pet nutritionist promptly.
Nails: Carefully observe if the pet’s nails are too long, inflamed, or if long neglect has caused damage to paw pads.

Skin: Conduct a comprehensive inspection from head to tail for external parasites, red spots, hair loss, or thinning. Check the abdominal skin and sparse hair areas for abnormalities and perineum for itching due to urination problems. If any of these occur, inform the owner immediately for veterinary care to avoid skin disease spread.
Anus: Observe if the anus area is clean, free of dirt, and check for abnormal secretions, which may indicate gastrointestinal discomfort. Contact a veterinarian promptly and consider causes for future control and prevention.
Anal Glands: Palpate the anal glands for swelling or pain; timely cleaning is necessary.

Genitals: For female dogs, check for abnormal secretions, odors, or if they are in heat, and inform owners about necessary precautions; for male dogs, check if the penis head has abnormal secretions or damage and verify if the dog has both testicles.
Joints: Carefully examine for joint abnormalities. Large and medium dogs mainly for hip joints, small dogs especially Teddies for knee joints, and elderly dogs for lumbar joints. If abnormalities occur, consult a veterinarian promptly for effective treatment.
Overall Condition: Check mental state, appropriate obesity level, and if the dog is depressed, timid, scared, or nervous. If such situations arise, inform the owner about the dog’s mental and nutritional status and resolve problems promptly.
When we understand that dogs undergo so many checks with groomers, it should reassure us. Groomers are the little angels of dogs, bearing very important responsibilities. They do not just beautify dogs, but play a crucial role in discovering many key pet diseases. Thank you and much appreciation to every groomer.