Importance of Professional Dog Grooming: A Study by Barkbus
Luxury mobile dog grooming firm Barkbus has conducted a pivotal study examining the levels of bacteria and fungi on dogs before and after professional grooming. The findings reveal just how effective grooming is in removing dirt, grime, and harmful organisms from your canine companion’s coat, mouth, and paws.
Study Methodology
Barkbus performed six gram and stain culture swab tests on various areas of the dogs — specifically their fur, mouth, and paws — both prior to and following professional grooming. The analysis aimed to quantify the colony-forming units (CFUs) of bacteria and fungi.
Key Findings on Bacteria Reduction
The study yielded significant results regarding bacteria reduction in dogs post-grooming:
- Fur: The average CFUs decreased dramatically from 34.7 million to just 10 after grooming.
- Mouth: Initial CFUs of 6.1 million were reduced to 140.
- Paws: While a decrease was noted, from 6,500 to 3,200 CFUs, this difference was less significant compared to fur and mouth.
These findings emphasize the importance of giving extra attention to a dog’s paws when grooming. While fur and mouth areas saw drastic reductions in harmful microorganisms, paws still presented a notable bacterial presence post-cleaning.
The Role of Professional Grooming
Regular visits to skilled professionals are crucial for maintaining a dog’s hygiene. Experienced groomers provide not only thorough brushing, washing, trimming, and nail care but are also adept at detecting potential health issues. Neglecting grooming can lead to prolonged health problems, including:
- Bone deformation from long nails affecting walking.
- Increased risk of arthritis.
- Infections from unclean ears.
Dogs vs. Household Items: A Bacterial Comparison
In an intriguing comparison, the study found that dogs harbor more bacteria than various household items. Before grooming, the bacterial levels on dogs were 14 to 18 times higher than those found on commonly used items, such as headsets and kitchen surfaces. However, post-grooming, the bacterial levels in fur (10 CFUs), mouth (140 CFUs), and paws (3,200 CFUs) were significantly reduced and nearly comparable to cleanliness standards.
Conclusion: The Necessity of Regular Grooming
This study from Barkbus highlights not merely the aesthetic benefits of grooming but also the crucial health implications for your pet. To ensure your furry friend remains healthy and happy, make professional grooming a regular part of your dog’s care routine.
