05/29/2026
Some of you may have heard or seen the news report on the groomer in West Bend that was very abusive to a dog in her care. I was very upset when I saw the footage and I am glad she was reported. I want to assure you that this is not how things are done at Barking Kids. When a dog is in my care I treat them as family. I researched many ways to make sure to not intentionally cause harm while grooming. The dryer she was using could harm a dog if held as close to the skin and ears like she did. My dryer is not that powerful, but it doesn't matter..I still use it with appropriate safety measures. Pulling a dog by it's leg when it tries to escape can hurt the dog and eventually the groomer will get bit. There are special holds I do to prevent pain for the pup. Hitting and yelling at the dog is not going to accomplish anything, except causing more fear and anxiety for the poor pup. She should have put the dog on the ground and taken a break before getting to that point. Yes..grooming is at times frustrating and difficult, but if a person doesn't love dogs they should not be doing the job. I love dogs. I see them as people's fur children. I grieve when they are harmed or pass. I want to do what I can so your dog is happy, not hurting. I follow the attached code of ethics.
