This thread got my attention because I am a former animal groomer. However, I am schooled at one of the best teaching facilities in the country.

I love all animals. The first thing we learned is to never turn away from the animal without keeping one hand on the animal.

The noose is a safety device. It provides safety first to the animal and second to the groomer. Most animals learn the grooming routine after a few visits and accept this mild restraint as part of the process.

Even the calmest and forgiving pet can be sensitive around it's feet. Nails and pads need to be kept in shape which includes trimming the nails. The noose makes it possible to perform this procedure without being injured by a biting animal.

The noose keeps the animal in the center of the grooming table and speeds up the process for the animal.

However, I can tell you horror stories by untrained groomers and I advise everyone check out the groomer before trusting your beloved pet to their care.

Word of mouth will put the careless groomer out of business quickly. And will build the business of the competent and expert groomer.

Accidents happen, always will. During my time grooming I had two accidents [none of a serious nature] which traumatized me as much as the animal. The owners, however, understood and forgave me instantly. They wanted only me to care for their animal.

In the beginning I told my clients that I might not be the best groomer in the area, but I promised to do the best job I could.

For the last ten years of my business I had to refuse any new clients because I was fully booked and had no place to fit in their animal.

Grooming is rewarding as it provides great satisfaction to see this shaggy little creature turn into what their owner thought was a show dog.

It's hard grueling work and requires all attention to be on the animal and I don't recommend anyone attempt to do this without proper training.

I began grooming my own dog years before ever deciding to do it for others. I hope everyone will learn to groom their own dog. For the time the animal is on the table the relationship becomes one of deep trust from the animal and confidence for it's owner.


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