Matted hair shrinks by the action of matting and can pull the skin taught leading to Haematomas (Bruising) due to the pooling of blood in the area of tight skin. Left long term, this could lead to sore and damaged skin and the associated health issues. The matted area can become a trap for moisture, fungus spores, bacteria, and flea/bug infestation.
The removal of matting can be difficult as a blade must fit between the skin and the mat as this will be extremely tight it can be uncomfortable for your pet and can bring the skin into contact with the clippers blade and may result in razor burn, server skin irritation and maybe a nick or serious cuts. If the matting is on the ears the matting may cause pooling of bleed on the edges of the ears the bleed upon the removal of the hair. This can be exacerbated by the dog’s natural instinct to shake its head as the ears feel unusual. We use a fabric tube called a Happy Hoodie to reduce this risk. (Add photo of)
Matting can be avoided with regular methodical combing and brushing of your pet’s coat. This will vary from breed to breed. We are happy to show you the required grooming process for your breed if you have any questions or concerns.
The Animal Welfare Act (2007) states that “All animals are to be protected from pain, suffering and disease”.
De-matting is a painful and distressing procedure and will therefore not be carried out.
Where we consider the coat to be severely mated, the coat will be shaved off with clippers, using the longest blade we can safely glide through the coat without pulling or snagging. The blades are usually a 7F which leaves the hair 3mm long or a 10F which leaves the hair 1.6 mm long. This is not a painful procedure but will leave the coat very short.
When a severely matted coat is clipped off, all the blood rushes back up to the surface of the skin which causes the redness. This doesn’t last long and soon settles. In case of bleeding, we will apply a natural antiseptic (Leucillin) spray to calm the area.
We Pet Care has no liability or responsibility for any vets’ fees if health i.e. skin irritation that is exposed when clipping off a matted coat. The owner will be required to sign a waiver form if the coat is severely matted.
The groom may not look perfect however, it is more important that the matting is removed, and the dog is comfortable. There is usually a £10 fee on top of the groom, this covers the sharpening of blades and extra time incurred.