Background
- Rocky, a Maltese mix, was brought in for a grooming appointment.
- At check-in, it was noted that his coat was SEVERLY matted, particularly around the underbelly and legs.
- The mats were dense, close to the skin, and included twisting and pinching in areas hard to access safely.
Severe Matting Often Requires A Shave Down
Once matting is severe enough, the best option may be a shave down of the entire coat.
Matting Makes Accidents More Likely
Deep seated mats can present challenges no matter what approach is used. While being groomed, dogs often move. When mats are present, it increases the risk that the clippers will catch a mat/skin. Unfortunately, one of Rocky’s mats got caught in the clippers, he flinched and he got a cut on his leg.
An Unplanned Veterinary Visit
Rocky was taken to his vet where they closed and bandaged up his cut. The vet clinic also performed a surgical shave down under anesthesia to remove the remaining matting.
The Outcome
Rocky made a full recovery, but the severe matting definitely created an unplanned vet visit.
Why Matting Is So Dangerous
- Hidden skin folds and wounds
- Constricted circulation
- High risk of cuts even with professional tools
- Creates anxiety and pain for the dog
- Sedation and vet intervention may become necessary
How To Prevent Matting
- Regular grooming at appropriate intervals prevents matting.
- If your dog has long, curly, or double-coated hair, home brushing in between grooms is CRITICAL.
- If you’re unsure how to brush effectively, ask our team — we’re happy to show you.
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