As we all know, the fad of designer breeds is in no way going to decrease. And as more and more people bring home a dog that is not purebred, the issue with skin disorders will not go away.
Skin disorders are a major challenge for everyday groomers. The most common issues reported by veterinarians include folliculitis, seborrhea, atopic dermatitis and sebaceous adenitis. These skin conditions can contribute to poor coat health, irritation, and hair loss. It is important to note that although these are skin conditions, they will affect the entire body including the coat, ears, and feet.
But as a groomer, how do you recognise a skin disorder, and best of all how do you work with the owner to achieve a better life for the dog?
Groomers carry a great deal of responsibility for their clients’ pets. It is important to understand that skin is the pet’s largest organ, so what you use and how you use it can either prevent or cause dry skin. An imbalance in the skin–what we refer to as ‘atopy’–can cause itchy skin and excessive oil production. So, it’s very important to get yourself familiarized with shampoo ingredients, and atopic disorders that cause skin disorders, because every product you put on a pet should be able to give something back to the skin that helps normalise the barrier.
With so much information and products readily available to you as a groomer, it is important that you research the information and the right products carefully.
The New iPET Network Level 3 Award in Promotion of Canine Skin, Hair and Nail Health has been developed with the pet professional in mind. It provides the underpinning knowledge and understanding of the tools, methods and techniques used to keep the skin, hair, and nails of dogs in optimum condition. This course will enable you to gain an understanding of the importance of canine skin care; learn how to assess a dog’s body condition; understand pain in dogs (and its causes); be able to recognise abnormal/disorders skin lesions; understand disease processes affecting the skin, hair, and nails; and more.
Paula Bryan, Managing Director of Clipit Grooming is delivering this online course to enable candidates to develop knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of canine hair and skin, to discuss and recognise to know when to recommend a client seeks veterinary advice, and to provide advice to owners on grooming, maintaining coat quality and condition.
This online course is available via Clipit Grooming and can be found by using this link https://www.clipit-grooming.com/product-page/ipet-level-3-award-canine-skin-and-hair