Injuries during the Grooming Process

Accidents occur, it happens to the best of us. A dog moves unexpectedly, we miss-judge an area or the scissors slip. It can be highly distressing for the dog, owner and groomer but it is not the end of the world if it is handled correctly.

Each salon will have their own way of dealing with accidents. Honesty and a prompt response is key here.

Transparency is everything. If a dog is injured in your care, is bitten by another dog or whatever the event may be, call the owner immediately. Have your procedure manual close by so you can follow your emergency procedure should you need it.

The example below is worst case scenario. If the dog does not require a vet, always let the owner know you have injured a dog. They will have more respect for you and be better equipped to manage the dog at home.

EXAMPLE

• Attend to the dog, make sure it is comfortable

• Keep calm and make sure all staff are OK

• In the event of a bleed; stem the bleed with clean cloth or bandage and apply pressure

• Call the owner and make them aware of the situation. Ask for permission to take the dog to a vet clinic if deemed necessary. This information should already exist on your pre-grooming consultation form, along with the owner’s emergency contact number for the day of grooming

• Secure all other dogs and leave a staff member in charge

• Take the dog to the owner’s vet or one pre-arranged

• Stay with the dog until the owner arrives or the dog is ready to be discharged

• Deal with the owner, assure them it was an accident

• Once the dog has been attended to either continue the clip or finish the clip at a more appropriate time

Dealing with a dog that is not used to being groomed, or does not being groomed can be a real challenge. Having an admission procedure is essential to ensure you cover any behavioral issues, coat condition and medical concerns. Make the owner aware that the dog may find the process difficult and while all care is taken, accidents can happen. Members can see more on the consultation process here.

You may need to put in place a policy around sub-contractors and employees who injure dogs.

Also, insurance is a must have! You should at a minimum have Business Insurance and Public Liability Insurance and make sure you are covered for any accidents or injuries.

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