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I want to share my experience, knowledge and of course, my opinion about cage drying and our pets. Every pet parent needs to know that there are risks that you will not see on display at any shop owners wall.

Is cage drying our fine furry friends a dangerous health risk? You be the judge.

Stand dryers are meant for use in an open area allowing the free flow of air around the pet. Pet professionals that use stand dryers are typically brushing the section of hair. Their hands and arms are in constant contact with the air, insuring that the temperature is safe and comfortable for both the groomer and the pet. When a dryer capable of reaching such high temperatures and aims the at a pet inside a cage, it cannot escape the blowing air and can easily become overheated or receive damage to areas of his skin.

In addition, a dryer designed for use with a cage typically has lower heat settings and built-in timers. They can still cause harm to pets. For example, if the timer is faulty, pets can be subject to hot air for a long period, causing them to overheat. If the pet is in a cage with limited air flow (such as an airline-type kennel or a cage with solid sides, floor and ceiling), it can become too hot as well. Sometimes a towel is put over the cage door to increase the temperature inside the cage.

This can be a cage drying recipe for disaster!

It is important for all of us to remember that dogs do not cool themselves by perspiring, but by panting. A hot dog will pant, exposing the moist tongue, mouth and sinus cavities to cool air. The blood exposed to the cool air circulates through the dog’s body, effectively decreasing its temperature.

However, if the dog sits inside a cage blowing warm or hot air for extended periods of time, the body temperature elevates to dangerous levels. Normally, a dog’s body temperature should register between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. In one case where a dog died from grooming-related overheating the veterinarian states the temperature was 109 degrees. At this temperature an animal’s organs begin to shut down.

In either event, all pet parents and people working in the pet industry need to be aware that cage drying can cause injury or death if used improperly. In addition, certain dogs are more prone to having difficulty with heat. For example, brachycephalic dogs—breeds with short muzzles such as pugs, shih tzus and bulldogs—should not be put in a cage to dry.

Today, more and more pet deaths occur due to cage drying. Being in the pet industry myself, I try to educate all of my pet parents about the risks of cage drying. I firmly believe in the “HANDS ON TECHNIQUE.” 

I believe all pet owners should get to know their groomer and research the shop where the pet goes.

If the facility prefers to use cage dryers, they should be in a room where a staff member can watch the dogs at all times. It is a good idea to keep thermometers in cages, out of the reach of pets, monitoring the temperature at a glance. It’s important to note that groomers should not assume a dog will exhibit distress if it becomes overheated. It is also recommended that all staff members know the symptoms of overheating and what first aid steps to take while the pet is being transported to a veterinarian.

Properly maintained cage dryers used with caution can be helpful tools for groomers. Used incorrectly, however, they can cause loss of life of beloved pets. Using proper equipment and following common-sense safety precautions will keep pets safer.

In addition, puppies, senior pets, rescues and pets with anxiety and other health issues should be monitored at all times. Never left unattended (all pets should never be left unattended at anytime). HANDS ON as I have experienced it provides the utmost love and attention which makes a happy healthy pet. Pet parents know exactly how their dog reacts to certain circumstances. You, your groomer and most importantly your dog should all work together during all stages of grooming. When pet parents help by soothing the dog or whatever it takes to help them relaxed and happy then everyone wins. Dogs should be eager to come back.

Some Vital Cage Drying Questions to ask are:

• Can you stay with your dog? If not, Why?
• How long does your dog sit and wait in a cage before the actual grooming is done? Hours probably.
• During grooming how long does your pet sit in a cage with hot air blasting on them to dry the fur? And, what is the temperature of the dryers? The size of the dog must be taken into consideration if cage drying.
• After the groom, how long does your pet sit and wait in a cage before you can pick them up? There shouldn’t restricted drop off and pick up times. There’s just something wrong about it.
• Can you tour the facilities grooming and bathing area?
• It should be the owners choice to stay with their pets. Are the proper cage drying equipment in use when cage drying? Sometimes very large and hot dryers not suited for drying any animal are set in front of a cage to dry the animal. That should never happen, but it does.
• What is the process at your pets pampering facility?
• Most importantly…..is your pet safe and monitored at all times if you choose a facility that does cage drying?
• Is the facility CPR PET certified?  

A HANDS ON TECHNIQUE gives a groomer the opportunity to check out the pets skin. Such as hot spots, allergies, inflammations, fleas, ticks, fatty tumors, warts, moles, skin tags or any other irregularities you find, this way you can inform the pet owner and they can let their vet know if need be. The best part about the HANDS ON TECHNIQUE is that the pet gets to know your touch, less stress and anxiety, a pet owner should have the choice to stay, watch or drop off their pets. A hands on approach leaves the coat fluffier and the haircut comes out beautifully.

Ask to meet the groomers and the bathers. Know your pets needs, wants and rights….they are family members and Yes they too have rights.

You want your pet to love their groomer and their pampering. All pets should receive safety and loving care during their pampering. As groomers we want our fine furry friends to get excited and happy about getting their pampering. That’s Unconditional Love. A reward all in itself to a groomer.

Please take note that small breeds and breeds with small snouts already have issues with breathing and can get heat stroke or other health issues faster. Larger breeds with a double or triple undercoat can also be at risk if the heat or warm dryer is blowing right on them for 10 to 30 minutes or even just several minutes. Grooming alone is stressful. Adding extra stress and anxiety is never a good outcome for the pet or the pet parents.

Knowledge is power. Let’s protect our pets, advocate for them and educate ourselves before another pet suffers from cage drying hardships. We need to speak up and ask questions. That’s your right and the right of your pet.

So now you be the judge…..cage dry or hands on technique. Educate yourself before sending your pet for a day at the spa. And remember, together we can make a difference in helping to keep pets safe. Spread the word by educating everyone you know.

When used correctly, cage dryers are a helpful tool for groomers. But, it’s important to choose a groomer who understands how cage dryers work—and uses them responsibly.

• We encourage and allow pet parents to stay with their pet however it is optional.
• Nail Trimming and Ear cleaning.
• Blow Dry by Hand, No Cage Drying.
• No sitting for hours in cages waiting.
• Individual attention for each client.
• All Hands On throughout entire groom. From pre-work to bathing and blow drying which ultimately allows for finishing with Precise Scissor Work. Individualized breed specific cuts (if desired)

BY THE WAY, DOES YOUR DOG NEED GROOMING? Check out our unique shop, Rainbow Scissors And Suds