I was at a grooming trade show the first time Debi Hilley introduced her seminar on wet-clipping matted dogs. It was standing-room only, and groomers excitedly talked about what they had learned all weekend. Since then, many people have authored articles and taught about the topic, but still, not all groomers know about the magic of wet clipping.
This process can get matted hair off dogs without leaving them looking as if they have had a close shave. It works because wet hair can stretch a little, allowing a longer blade to get between the tangles and the skin. For example, if you have a matted Bichon on your table and you assess its condition, deciding that you will need to use a number seven or even a number ten blade to get its pelted fur off, try this instead. First, wash the dog well, working the flow of water as close to the skin as possible to help lift the matting a bit. Don’t be afraid to wash more than once, if necessary, because truly clean coats are easier to work on and look better when you are through.
After the dog is well cleaned, condition the coat. Once it is rinsed, towel the coat as usual. Next, use a high-velocity dryer to separate the tangles from the skin a bit more. You want to leave the coat very damp but not dripping. When you reach the point where the fur is evenly damp all over, stop drying. In most cases, you can now use a number four or five blade and clip the damp, tangled fur off. I will tell you in advance that wet, matted hair feels a little icky as you work. It will cling unpleasantly to your hands and arms, but the “yuck” factor is worth it.
Once the matted coat is removed, apply your favorite detangling grooming spray. Brush the spray all over the pet, then finish fluffing the pet dry. Once the dog is thoroughly dried, brush and comb to ensure there are no remaining snarls. At this point, you should be able to at least go over the pet with the same blade that you used to wet clip. Often, you can use one that is one length longer to finish the clip. (i.e., if you clipped with a five-blade, you may be able to finish with a plusher four-blade.) Sometimes a pet that has been wet clipped with a number four or five metal blade can be finished with a guard comb, leaving more coat than you have ever hoped for. I refer to wet clipping as my “magic wand.” This procedure allows groomers to salvage coat they never imagined that they could while avoiding putting the pet through a lengthy, uncomfortable dematting session.
Wet clipping is best done with a battery-operated clipper to prevent any chance of electrical shocks. If you use a corded clipper, be certain to plug it into a GFCI outlet. When the job is completed, separate your blade and use a dryer to remove any residual moisture, then oil the blade well to prevent rusting. (Note: use actual blade oil, not cooling spray.)
Grooming educators who have shared tips like this with others have saved groomers collectively thousands of hours of work and piles of frustration and offered kindness to pets, too. If you have never tried wet shaving, consider giving it a whirl. It is a wonderful skill to add to your pet grooming bag of tricks.
By Daryl Conner, MPS, MCG
Daryl Conner has been devoted to making dogs and cats more comfortable and beautiful for almost 40 years. You can find her happily working at FairWinds Grooming Studio with her daughter and infant granddaughter, or typing away at her latest grooming-related article. Daryl was awarded both a Cardinal Crystal Award and Barkleigh Honors Award for journalism. She shares her meadow-hugged antique Maine farmhouse with her practically perfect husband and too many animals.
