Social Interaction
All dogs will be assessed upon arrival, even if they are from the same household. This allows us to check their temperament and body language on the day and plan the groom based on how the dog is feeling.
Dogs will be kept on leads when being moved around the salon.
Members of the public should not come to collect their dog until the groom is fully finished, as this can interrupt the dog during their grooming session.
Dogs will be separated, with adequate space maintained between them by using holding areas or crates.
Minimising Injury When Handling
We will assess the dog’s size, weight, behaviour and ability to move around independently. Some dogs may have specific lifting requirements due to a disability or mobility problem.
We will avoid twisting our back when lifting a dog and always use appropriate lifting techniques.
When lifting heavier dogs, a two-person lift may be needed to avoid back strain and reduce the risk of dropping the dog.
Ramps or other lifting aids can be used for heavier or disabled dogs.
Additional care is required when handling elderly, arthritic or mobility-impaired dogs due to their reduced flexibility.
Accommodation
As dog groomers, we have a responsibility to provide suitable housing and a suitable environment whilst the dog is in our care.
Cage and kennel areas will be kept clean and tidy, with fresh drinking water available.
The area will be safe and secure, with comfortable and clean bedding.
The salon will be well ventilated, including opening windows during bathing and cleaning times where appropriate.
The salon will be kept at an appropriate temperature, with areas available for dogs to cool down.
Accommodation will be free from draughts and leaks.
Social Interaction and Behaviour
We take into consideration that dogs are able to display their normal behaviour patterns whilst in our care.
After their groom, dogs will be provided with mental stimulation and the opportunity to stretch their legs and go to the toilet.
A dog’s behaviour will be monitored throughout their session so we are aware of how they are feeling, including signs of fear, anxiety or stress. This allows us to respond appropriately to their signals before they escalate.
Minimising Injury and Disease
We have a duty of care to protect dogs in our care from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
We will be able to recognise signs that a dog may be experiencing discomfort so we can act accordingly.
When booking a dog in, we will make sure their vaccination records are up to date to help avoid cross-contamination.
A full health check will be carried out on all dogs entering the salon.
The salon will be disinfected after each dog to help prevent cross-contamination.
If any issues are noticed during the groom that may require veterinary attention, veterinary advice should be sought from the pet parent.
Promoting Wellbeing
Dogs will be housed separately from other dogs in the salon unless the owners have given permission for their dog to be housed with dogs from another household.
Separate areas will be provided for dogs who become stressed or upset by barking.
Each dog will be separated into their own crate or kennel where appropriate.
Only dogs that arrive together will be housed together unless permission has been given by the pet parent.
Dogs will be given sufficient break times if they become restless during the groom, especially elderly or disabled dogs.
