Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Working Dog Hygiene

By: Tracy Jordan, Certified Professional Dog Groomer

Tracy Jordan with Mason, a Turkish Kangal
My name is Tracy Jordan. I have been a dog groomer for over 30 years and have owned two of my own Grooming Salons and worked for several Veterinarians and groomers. My mother, who was Certified in Poodles, trained me to groom. Over the years I have attended many Groom Expos to expand my education. While working with Veterinarians, I also made a point to learn all I could from them.
When working with German Shepherds, and working dogs in general, grooming is a different approach. It is very important to keep visual on their skin and coat. Best way to do this is daily or at least weekly combing and brushing. You want to comb the dog out completely to find any debris or matting in the coat. When brushing, you have to brush from the skin out. This way you can see the skin and work the coat all the way through.
It is very important to keep your working dog healthy, and a well groomed coat is key. They can pick up all kinds of germs and pests while out in the woods, fields and water. Bathing them after working in the field is important in reducing the chance of getting sick.
If possible, pre-bush the coat to remove all debris and check for open sores or wounds. Then give the dog a thorough bath in a quality shampoo. If not, then at least brush out best you can and use a No Rinse or Waterless shampoo. This will reduce the chance of the dog getting a yeast infection or worse. I recommend Bio Groom Harsh coat for regular and QuickClean Waterless Shampoo for in between quick baths I use a metal Greyhound comb and Slicker brush by Miller Forge. All These Products can be found in Pet Edge Magazine. It is also recommended that the dogs collar is cleaned as often as the dog, if they wear a collar daily. The collar, over time will begin to smell and can also carry bacteria.
Keeping your equipment cleaned is important as well. Harness, collar and crates should be kept clean
to help prevent illness in your working dog. Grooming in general for dogs should include comb/brush out, bath, nail trim, clean ears and check pads of feet. By doing this on at least a monthly basis, you will help prevent hot spots and avoid illness from infection and pests.