October 19, 2012 @ 8:37 PM

 

IS COLORING PETS HARMFUL?

    With some pet owners, there is controversy surrounding the idea of dying pets colors.  There are people out there that just simply think it's cruel. There was even a groomer who dyed his own poodle pink,and got prosecuted with an obscure law that was meant to protect bunnies and chicks, at Easter... which grow up to be unwanted pets.

    After dying dozens of dogs over the last 15 years, I have come to the conclusion that it is harmless.  There is nothing harmful about dying dogs.  Silly, maybe, but sometimes we need to be a little silly!  I know some guys that are ridiculous over football.  So, people want  to get a little ridiculous with their dogs. It's not your dog... And, as a groomer, if it will not take or look bad, I will tell you that maybe it's not a good idea to dye your pet.

    I have also come to the conclusion that pets that are dyed, are ALL very good pets. These pets tend to be very happy pets, too. They get tons of affection and petting! These are also, typically pets that LIKE a lot of attention. These are not the kind of pets that would be embarrassed or shy.

    Groomers use many different things to dye pets... but they are all STAINING ONLY techniques. There is no peroxide, to lift  color out.  That is why only white pets are ideal for dying.  We use, Koolaid, food coloring, washable non-toxic marker, and professional tints (such as Manic Panic, Punky Colors, and Adore).  I have also dyed older pets, back to their natural color.. even a couple of younger dogs with dull coats.  I have also dyed dogs for shows... (You don't really think that those black poodles on dogs shows are really THAT black do you? (Miss Clairol, #52 Blue/Black.)

--- Not too long ago, I was dying a dog for an exceptional pet owner.  (Very nice lady, super cute dog, who was also a very good little dog.), and another customer snidely said. "Nature wasn't enough? Or what?"  I was mortified, and responded lamely something about it's all in good fun... But REALLY...............................

IT'S ALL IN GOOD FUN!