The Parker Rules and Observations of Scissor Cutting

[F, Calla & Luca]

Why let being absolutely untrained and a relative novice at dog grooming stop me? Some of you have said you take the examples of those of us who scissor cut as encouragement to do so. I decided to share some thoughts. Sometimes I wish I had smaller dogs or dogs who shed.

1) Do what works well for you. Only follow the "rules" that make sense for you.

2) Cut mats part way down and then you may be able to separate them out with your fingers. You can tell some mats are hopeless as soon as you see them. I ferret mats out primarily with my fingers.

****3) If you have to cut close to the skin, make sure the fingers of your non scissoring hand or even the nails only, are between the dog's skin and the scissors. It's a good idea to do this even if you think you are not near the skin but possibly might be. Near the "underarms", around the anus, genitals and ears this is particularly true. Some smart people, like Barb, use a comb between the skin and fingers.

4) Have good scissors that are sharp and more than one pair.

5) Never think you have gotten all the mats. There are always more.

6) Cut the dog the way you like. The hair will grow back quickly enough if you change your mind.

7) Stop when you're really tired or sooner and you can do more another day.

8) Sometimes you can slice mats, particularly in the tail, from the skin outward with the blade of a scissor.

I may think of more rules and will add them. It's hard work and if I can find someone willing to take on my two for a reasonable price I might do it. But for now I soldier on.

 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

This makes great sense to me. Maybe I'll actually try a little DIY with my next non-shedder.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

I have a groomer who will do my dogs for $40 each. Most times, she earns every penny. Thank you for the tips. I do think someday I might try grooming, but I also think I will diet soon too.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I know what you mean. If I could get mine done for that price they'd be there. And for twice as much they'd be there.

[Bonnie and Kona]

me, too!

[Barb @ Gemstone Labradoodles]

3b  Put your comb between the dog's skin and the scissors to avoid cutting your dog.

[Sally, Ditzy Mitzi & Sgt. Pepper]

Dear F Parker,

If I may add  Barb's 3 b is a very useful addition to your rules.

 

Excellent suggestions by the way.

[Judi, David & Maddie Irishdoodle]

F, I ferret (love the word) out Maddie's matts when we are lounging on the couch.  She is usually draped over me or beside me sleeping and I run my fingers through her coat and when I find a matt I snip and slice at it with a little pair of scissors I keep in my doggie basket under the coffee table.  That little basket contains, wipes, scissors, metal comb, brush etc. It really saves my back and then when I'm giving her a full scissor cut on the table it is that much easier because there are less matts to deal with. Your rules rock.

[F, Calla & Luca]

Thanks. I just started keeping a scissors handy too.

[Tina, Clover, Plus 5 More]

F, having smaller dogs is not any easier and to me actually more difficult.  Clover is so patient and will stand, sit or lay down forever.  Thanks for the encourangement.  Even though I groom my own dogs I'm my own worst critic.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Thanks, F.

[Jennifer Tramell]

Great observations - I especially like #s 1 and 6.  Can I add to this?  Have clean paper towel, tissue, and possible band aids on hand.  In trying to protect your dog's skin, you will snip yours.  Multiple times.  Or maybe I just shouldn't be allowed to use scissors.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I've had a tiny nick here and there, too. Fortunately nothing serious. But that may be why Barb's protect the skin with a comb is a better idea. Also why # 7 is important.