My dog has knots and tangles, but is she matted?

It was a long Winter.  Many of us like to keep our dogs in longer coats until the thermometer creeps above 40 degrees.  Once Spring arrives, we can't wait to whisk them away to the groomer for a much needed spa day.  Once you get to the salon, your groomer informs you that your pet's coat is matted.  You might respond with disbelief and surprise,

"How can my dog be matted?  I brush her all the time!"

Before we get to the bottom of how, let's talk a minute about what mats are.  Mats (knots, tangles, snarls - call them what you like) are a woven mass of dirt and hair.  Do you know what they feel like?  Sink your fingers deep into your pet's coat and feel for patches of hair that seem dense or have an inconsistent density.  Now get your dog's comb.  As you comb through her hair, you will encounter resistance.  Those are your matted areas.

Now let's talk about what causes mats.  There are really just four, and they are...

 

Neglect: These mats are products of time and inattention to the coat.  They are very tight and difficult to remove. Many times, the dog's coat is in extremely poor shape overall and very dirty. They can be a hiding place for pests like fleas and ticks and may lead to skin damage or injury.

 

Friction: Friction mats are caused when two areas rub together. It could be from a collar, dog sweater, or from a body part like behind the ears or under the front legs - but is not limited to those areas.  Depending on the activity level of the dog, friction mats could be found up and down the legs, on long ears, or the tail.  These are the areas that come in contact with other areas like tall grasses or even the ground.

 

 

Brushing AND combing your pet on a regular (weekly) basis is your best line of defense.  You should be able to get your fingers to slide easily through the coat and down to the skin all over your pet.  We can help build your skill and confidence with a demonstration.  Come on in and let us help you learn some grooming tips that will make pet care even easier.