EXCESSIVE MATTING

We embody a humane approach to grooming at Cleopetra’s. This approach will always take into consideration the safety and well being of a pet before aesthetics. As such, we will NOT dematta pet that has extreme matting. (Please understand that there is a difference between light/moderate matting that groomers deal with on a daily basis and excessive matting.)

This is what excessive matting looks like:

Excessive dematting is a very painful, time-consuming, and costly procedure that causes extreme discomfort and can aggravate (or cause) skin problems. This is a total contradiction to our philosophy and we are not willing to traumatize a dog in order to keep their coat long. (Bear in mind that many dogs can become traumatized by unnecessary hours of dematting, which can carry negative

associations with grooming for life.)

A severely matted dog can suffer from many conditions, some of which may not be noticeable to the owner since the mats may be concealing the condition, including:

•Hotspots & sores

•Fungal & bacterial infections

•Yeast infections

•Flea infestation

•Moist eczema

•Mites & lice

•Urine & feces scalding

•Eye & ear infections

•Severe itching

DEMATTING POLICY

We will ATTEMPT to demat a coat if we feel that the animal will not suffer excessive pain, but we also reserve the right to stop the process if we believe your pet:

  • Appears to be in extreme pain
  • Becomes overly stressed
  • Exhibits excessively aggressive behavior
  • Cannot physically or emotional tolerate the process

Please note that our normal grooming charge DOES NOT include dematting; any dematting will be charged at a rate of $80 per hour, prorated. We also require a Dematting Release Form to be signed before beginning the dematting process.

We consider shaving an act of kindness. Sometimes the pet is so badly matted that the hair must be completely clipped off below the mat, allowing for new, healthy hair to grow. That’s the simple reality, but keep in mind that its just hair, and it will grow back!

AFTER THE SHAVE DOWN…

Once the coat is removed and depending upon it’s condition, the skin can be red and irritated due to the lack of air circulation and dirt that has accumulated underneath. Occasionally there can be sores or infection lurking beneath the mat; if this is the case, a trip to see the Vet is in order.

Also, dogs tend to scratch and rub their skin after being shaved - this is normal, however some can over scratch, which may lead to broken skin. Again, any issues should be addressed with your Vet.

We understand that it can take a very large time commitment to keep your dogs coat in proper condition and so please feel free to ask us for input or suggestions that may help in your efforts. But please note that it is the pet owners responsibility to care for their pets coat in between professional grooming appointments.