Ok! My Dog is MATTED! Now what?
Pets left in a matted condition are usually ignored or neglected, perhaps not intentionally. Many pet owners simply
do not understand how miserable this makes their pet. The pets will chew at themselves incessantly if the mats are
not removed. Mats can even pull so tight it can tear the skin. Some pet owners think because the dog is chewing
and scratching there must be a flea or skin problem, but many problems can be a result of mats. Fleas and ticks can hide under the
mats and if the mats cover the 'private' areas, urine and feces will be pressed against the skin or stick in the coat,
causing further irritation and possibly an infection.
How did my pet become matted?
Many pet owners either don't have the time, or have not been advised on how to properly brush AND
comb their pet. Combing and brushing need to be done on a regular basis, and the pet should be taught
as a puppy to accept grooming as part of his/her care. A dog cannot brush itself, so regular grooming
appointments (every 4-6 weeks) and home care is a part of the pet owner's responsibilities. Mats hurt;
imagine how your head would feel if your hair was matted. Now imagine it all over your body or even just
in the really sensitive areas, or areas that always move like your armpits! This would cause the hair to
be pulled and you'd be in constant pain.
What happens if I can't get the mats out?
If the mats are not removed in some way, they will eventually become a health hazard to your pet and
turn into dreadlocks. In the worst case, the mats can rip the skin. Each time your pet gets wet just
makes it worse, and the mats will pull tighter on the skin. The only humane way to remove mats at this
stage is to have the pet shaved. Even then, the pet will be at risk from clipper burn and possible nicks
from the clipper blades because mats start at the skin and work their way out. NEVER try to remove mats
with scissors. There is a good chance you will slice your dogs skin. It can be VERY hard to differentiate between the mat and the skin even for a professional.
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