Are Muzzles Cruel?

Don't even touch my feet!

Handling biters, can be very challenging, these dogs are usually pets sent from one groomer, to  another,  where they pick up new ways to escape the grooming process. Trust me, they learn quickly just what it will take for that pesky groomer or owner to leave him alone. All they really want is for you to stop, and they will do what ever it takes for you to do just that.
The best way is to do ONE, or ALL of the following:  BITE, SCREAM, DEFECATE, URINATE, FIGHT, OR FLIGHT. It can become so frustrating at times, that you end up sending a dog home, unfinished, and the poor unsuspecting owner is asked not to return.  Sound familiar?


I really hate it when that happens.

 When any groomer gets a real "Houdini" on their table, it creates serious problems and they require more time and effort. Reasons for this include possible injury to the groomer and/or the pets they are working on. In some cases a 20 minute finish becomes an hour or better instead. This puts the groomer way behind causing them to rush on the rest of the pets in the shop. Groomers get stressed and pressed for time and sit with the fear of hurting someone or themselves. This isn't fair to the groomer, the other pet owners, or their pets.
I have worked in several shops over the years and have seen first hand of what can happen. The good thing is, the mistakes of others, and my own, have taught me well.
 Take a deep breath and be patient, and keep in mind that we are dog beauticians not magicians.
Then I call Nestor for help.

 My first concern is for the health and well being of your pet, they are priority above myself. I try to take a little time with all new clients to get their pets profile. By asking questions, and listening to the client, I can easily pick up on key words that will alert me to the personality and quirks of the dog. If the owner is honest enough, they will tell me, the dog may bite, if this occurs  I dig a little deeper and find out whats the real deal by listening and asking more questions.  If he bites just for nail trims, no biggie, this is common and can easily be handled with Nestor assisting. Sometimes a soft muzzle is needed and will quickly be removed when the procedure is complete. The process is quick and easy and less stressful for the pet. If  the owner tells me the dog is very unruly for the entire grooming process, I discuss all the options, costs, and procedures. If we all agree, I move forward with caution. In most cases it just takes a little patience, and understanding animal behaviour.

Because we want all involved to be aware and informed, a full report is given upon pick up. Good or bad, I want my clients to know how their pet reacted while in my care. This is important information that should be passed to anyone that may have to work with your pet in the future. I find being truthful is always in the best interest of the pet.

There are some pet owners out there who get very upset if you muzzle their pet.They think it's so cruel and will often not allow one to be used for any reason. It's this kind of thinking that makes our workplace an unsafe environment. Muzzling a biting dog, is at times the only way to ensure the safety of the groomer and pet. They are tools of the trade and used only when necessary, for restraining a biter.
You must realize that dogs are animals, and although faithful and sweet, if they don't want something done, or they are afraid, they can and will bite!

 When the owner of a biting dog refuses to allow the use of a muzzle, they are letting you know that your safety, and that of their pet, is not their concern. Those dogs I WILL NOT TAKE, and the only option for that owner is, to find someone who will. It's not just for the fact I could be seriously bitten, and unable to work, but the dog could end up getting hurt as well. Biting at sharp grooming tools is very bad! Eyes, mouths, noses, tongues, and ears are attached to that cute face, and can be easily injured.

 Soft muzzles are not cruel, and they do not restrict breathing . They come in various sizes to fit most breeds comfortably. They are a helpful tool used by groomers, Vets, trainers and handlers alike. Like any tool of the trade, they are not to be miss used.

 It is a rarity in our shop to ever have to muzzle a dog. It's not the norm for dogs to bite us. If anything, we are licked to death. However, we do want you to know our thoughts, and That's the Buzz on Doggie Talk!
Feel free to share your comments.

{{Huggs for my Pets}}
Colette




Image credit to
http://able2know.org/topic/144018-1