Having a thorough understanding of the science, technique and proper use of grooming products can be <quality of> life-changing for the groomer and pets, writes Cliff Faver, DVM. His article is timely as we close the summer dermatitis season and enter the turn-on-the-furnace season.
It’s also important to understand that since most pets have hair as their first line of defense, their skin is often more sensitive to irritation or dryness, shares Faver. Pet skin is about six to eight times more sensitive than human skin.
Dry skin in pets often leads to itching, which is frequently misdiagnosed as allergies. Hydrated skin, on the other hand, is healthy skin.”
Source: Groomer to Groomer, September 2025. Link. Once we understand how these products work—especially conditioners—we can use them more effectively to make our lives easier and the pets more comfortable. If we have a pet with dry skin, we know we need a humectant to replenish moisture and then an emollient to help retain it.
Related: The evolution of dog shampoo. Groomer to Groomer, September 2025. Link. Melissa Viera shares past milestones and future possibilities.
Image: Link.