As pet owners, we always strive to do what's best for our furry friends—whether it's providing them with the right food, exercise, or regular vet checkups. But one aspect of pet care that’s often overlooked is regular grooming. Beyond making your pet look and smell nice, grooming can play a crucial role in their health.
Earlier this week, Ella, who has been Porkie’s groomer for years, noticed a small lump on him during his grooming session. We hadn’t spotted it ourselves, but thanks to Ella’s attentiveness, we were able to get him to the vet right away. After a check-up, we were referred to an oncologist, who confirmed that the tumor was a 7mm mast cell tumor (MCT). With mast cell tumors, they can often grow or shrink, which can make them difficult to detect early, but we’re hopeful that it was caught before it has spread. We’ll know more after his upcoming ultrasound. Porkie beat cancer last year and he will beat it again!
This isn’t the first time one of our groomers has detected a health issue during a grooming session. Time and again, our team has found lumps, bumps, and other abnormalities that have led to early diagnoses. Catching something early can make all the difference in how successfully it’s treated, and that’s why regular grooming is so important—not just for appearances, but for your pet’s health.
The next time you bring your pet in for grooming, remember that it’s not just about a fresh haircut or clean coat. Our groomers are trained to notice things that might go unnoticed in day-to-day life. It could mean catching something like we did with Porkie, and possibly even saving your pet’s life.
Ella, we love you and are so grateful to you for everything you do for our customers dogs and for ours.
***The photo shown is where the tiny tumor was hiding. When it was aspirated it changed size and was very noticeable. Before it was poked there was no indication of a bump in that area.***