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The images are shocking but they have the merit of being clear. Without going to the groomer, some dogs find themselves in a deplorable state. Nails that get into the skin, knots that are impossible to untangle, blocked ears … “It is not related to the negligence of the owners, on the contrary, they sometimes want to do well, but do not know about it. They shampoo their animal but do not brush it. So it makes knots. Suddenly, they redo a shampoo and so on. Until the situation becomes critical… Sometimes the water macerates in the hairs. There may even be maggots. Coralie Francois, groomer at Fluffy & Co, in Quarouble, is clear: a long-haired dog requires maintenance every 3 months. The groomer knows already that there will be a lot of work coming out of this second confinement. ” In May, when we resumed, we worked for two months from 8 am to 8 pm to catch up. In July, schedules were able to resume normally, until this new break on October 30. »
“I no longer pay myself a salary”
Economically, Coralie is holding out as best she can, helped by her grandfather and her savings. She is not in debt until now but is no longer able to pay herself a salary. ” We received 1,500 euros per month during the first confinement. It paid the charges, including my rent of 1,000 euros. Membership fees were postponed but not canceled. Coralie already estimates the loss of her turnover this year at -40%. And hopes to be able to resume his activity before Christmas. ” The schedule is already full. People like their pets to look good for the holiday season. »
“We can kill animals
but not take care of it! ”
« It hurts us a lot to be considered non-essential“, Deplores Coralie. A situation not understood by groomers, especially since they generally only welcome one person per hour in their salons. And are therefore able to fully comply with the health protocol in force. Supported by local elected officials, the groomers encountered the final refusal of the Ministry on November 10, after several days of hesitation where they were sometimes allowed to open, sometimes forced to close. ” Some prefectures have allowed grooming salons to open. Sometimes it changed from hour to hour. It was very difficult to follow. Neither Xavier Bertrand, the president of the Region, nor the unions, have succeeded in overturning government decisions in favor of groomers. ” During the first confinement, everyone was housed in the same boat. However, today, the inconsistencies of this partial confinement created tensions, recognizes Coralie. We feel injustice. Psychologically, it is very difficult. Pet stores remain open, discount bazaars too, and even hunters obtain exemptions… We can kill animals but not take care of them!«
“We are essential, dogs
need us ”
Groomers consider their role to go far beyond aesthetics. ” Through palpation, we can alert the client when something seems abnormal to us. We are there to reassure, advise and direct clients to other professionals such as behaviorists if necessary. For us, the well-being of the dog is essential. It is not compulsory but it is essential for dogs with long hair. We are essential, dogs need us. » P. B.
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