I AM A DOG GROOMER IN AUSTRALIA AND BECAUSE THE SUMMER TEMPERATURE IS AROUND 35 - 40 DEGREES CELCIUS (95-105 F), I MOSTLY USE A #4 OR #5 TO CLIP THE DOGS' BODIES (POODLES, MALTESE ETC). I AM INTERESTED IN HEARING FROM ANY GROOMERS IN COLD CLIMATES WHETHER YOU CLIP THE DOG'S DIFFERENTLY DUE TO THE CLIMATE AND WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOU GET A DOG WHOSE COAT IS MATTED SOLID AND NEEDS STRIPPING OFF WHEN THE WEATHER IS COLD? ALSO, DO YOU FIND PEOPLE RELUCTANT TO HAVE THEIR DOGS CLIPPED BECAUSE OF THE COLD WEATHER
BEEJAY

Replies To BeeJay;

Hi, BeeJay
I guess other than going to the North Pole, Edmonton, Alberta Canada is one of the coldest spots (-35 degrees celcius)in the winter. We have had freezing conditions this year. My grooming business does slow down quite a bit. In terms of clipping differently, no there is no difference. My last customer with a matted dog brought not one, but two parkas for her poodle. Booties and sweaters, etc. are big business here. I hope that answers your question. Talk to you soon.
Judith
Hi BeeJay,
Yes if they bring them in during the winter matted solid I shave them! I also explain to the client that a matted dog will often stay wet (and cold!) for days. On the other hand with a short coat he/she will dry quickly and remain much warmer. If the dog stays outdoors for the most part I give them advice on keeping them warm and protected during the cold months. Many owners do not know how warm a dog will stay with a heavy nest of hay in its dog house. You can also put a low watt light bulb out of reach to keep them warm. Leaving a pelted coat on a dog during the winter is not doing it any favors.
Thanks for asking, see ya!
Diane Hill CMG