As pet groomers, most have experienced lifting a dog to put it on the grooming table or in the tub and feeling a twinge in their back. Many dogs are less than excited about being lifted and show their displeasure by twisting and squirming, which makes that lift much more challenging. There are steps groomers can take to help keep their backs healthy.
Let's start with how to lift those pups properly:
- If possible, team-lift dogs that are long and low or heavy. Lift simultaneously.
- Stand close to the pet. Spread your feet to about the width of your shoulders.
- Using your knees and hips, bend to a squatting position, keeping your back straight.
- Hold the pet snugly towards your body.
- Tense up your stomach muscles.
- Lift with your legs.
- In an ideal world, have grooming tables and bath tubs that can be lowered so pets can easily hop up, and then electricity or hydraulics can do the heavy lifting. Another option is to have an electric or hydraulic table near the tub. Large and heavy dogs can step onto the table and then be directed to walk to the tub or be lifted from the tabletop height instead of the floor, which will be easier on your back.
Other things groomers can do to support back health are:
- Wear comfortable, supportive shoes with skid-resistant soles.
- When standing, use soft ergonomic mats to cushion your legs and back while you work.
- Take breaks and stretch frequently during the day.
- Watch your posture, and don't slump when you work to help reduce muscle stress.
- Work at a comfortable level. Bending to work or reaching up can be stressful to your back.
- Keep a low stool (around 6 inches high) near your grooming table. Alternate resting one foot at a time on the stool while standing for prolonged periods.
- Engage in some form of exercise regularly. Walking, bike riding, swimming, and yoga are all good choices to support back health.
- Stay hydrated.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Try to maintain a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet.
- Use pillows to support your back while you sleep. Side sleepers can use a pillow under their top knee; back sleepers can place a pillow under their knees and another under their lower back.
- Using nicotine constricts blood flow and may increase the chance of back pain.
Teaching yourself to sit for some of the day while you groom can be a huge help. Ergonomic stools that help encourage good posture are perfect for groomers.
Many groomers find that regular visits with a chiropractor are an essential factor in maintaining good back health.
Back pain caused by injury can take a long time to resolve, making even simple tasks difficult. Taking care of your back while you work is an integral part of self-care.
