Originally posted by jenluckenbach
Has any man here ever had an irritation after shaving his face? Has any woman here ever has an irritation after shaving her legs or underarms? Shaving hair off sensitive areas causes irritation. it is a fact! it is not neglect, it is not dull equipment, it is more a matter that some animals have sensitive skin and some don't. And dogs are very likely to scratch these areas (in hopes of making them feel better) and all it does is irritate it more.

In the case of my friend, NOT a groomer herself, getting Max all red most every time she shaved him... She didn't use a blade guard. If you don't know what your doing you can shave too close and burn their skin. There is no reason to shave as close as a mans face or a woman’s legs. It's doggie hair, it can be a bit on the long side.

As for Tonee getting staff infection... She shaved TOO close. And something there was dirty. There is NO need to take it down to the bare skin. This was her neck. She was bald on her neck because she was using the wrong blade. This person was a show cocker groomer, that's why I went to her. 2 days later Tonee's neck was as full as a balloon, with infection.

Nina's groomer shaves her tummy all the time. It is not down to the skin. She has had a funny tail cut several times, but never any red spots from being shaved too close. Now Nina is not a tiny pup, but 40 pounds. She only charges us $24 and Petsmart was over $40.

But back to the original ? of tipping. Maybe there is a new etiquette book out, as the one I have is VERY old. At the hairdresser you do not tip the owner if they are the one that cuts your hair. My guy is the owner, I tip. So I think I should start tipping Nina's groomer too.
Katz