Professional Pet Groomers & Stylists Alliance Standards of Care, Safety and Sanitation

Welcome to Part Three of the CPPGA Breakdown of the PPGSA Standards of Care, Safety and Sanitation. In this installment, we'll focus on bathing and drying. As always, the specific brands of shampoo, conditioner, or dryer are not our concern—only that products are formulated for dogs and cats and that dryers are used safely.

As with any bath, begin in the tub. Make sure the water is comfortably warm, not too hot or too cold, and check that the hose is in good condition, with no cracks or bulges. A mat or slip-resistant tub surface is also recommended for the pet's comfort and safety. When diluting shampoos and conditioners, always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Products that are too concentrated can be difficult to lather and rinse, which may irritate the pet's skin. Products that are over-diluted may not clean effectively. Either way, product is wasted, and so is money. Manufacturers invest heavily in developing formulas and dilution ratios, so it is important to use them as directed.

Once the pet is bathed, move on to drying. Whether you use high-velocity dryers, kennel dryers, stand dryers, or a combination, pet safety must remain the top priority. Watch closely for signs of distress or overheating. Happy Hoodies and other stress-reducing tools should be cleaned and sanitized regularly. If kennel dryers are located outside your grooming room, check on pets at least every 5–10 minutes. A live-feed camera with a monitor at your station can also help you respond quickly if something goes wrong.

Join us for our next installment, where we'll discuss the grooming room and grooming tools.