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Medical Grooming Services for Dogs and Cats in Abbotsford

Some grooming needs go beyond what a standard grooming salon can safely manage. When a pet's coat is severely matted, when a nail trim requires sedation for safety, or when a full clip is needed for a medical reason, veterinary-supervised grooming is the appropriate setting. Gladys Pet Hospital offers medical grooming services for dogs and cats in Abbotsford, performed under veterinary supervision to ensure your pet's comfort and safety throughout. We are open seven days a week and serve clients from Mission, Chilliwack, and the broader Fraser Valley.

When Medical Grooming Is Needed

Medical grooming is appropriate when standard grooming is not an option due to the pet's physical condition, behaviour, or the nature of the grooming required. Severely matted coats can cause skin irritation, restrict blood flow, and hide underlying skin concerns. Overgrown nails can affect gait and lead to joint discomfort over time. Some pets are too anxious or reactive for conscious grooming without the risk of injury to themselves or the groomer. In all of these situations, veterinary-supervised grooming, sometimes including sedation, provides a safer path forward for both the pet and the person caring for them.

Dematting Services

Matting is painful. Tight mats pull on the skin, restrict movement, and can trap moisture against the skin, creating conditions for irritation and infection to develop beneath the surface. Severe mats often cannot be brushed out safely and must be clipped away. At Gladys Pet Hospital, our team evaluates the extent of the matting and the skin underneath before proceeding. In some cases, sedation is recommended to complete dematting safely and without causing further stress or discomfort to your pet. Our medical team is present throughout to monitor your pet's wellbeing.

Sedated Nail Trim

Most pets tolerate nail trims with minimal fuss. For those who do not, whether due to anxiety, a previous negative experience, or physical difficulty holding still, a sedated nail trim at our veterinary clinic offers a safe and low-stress alternative. Nails that are too long can curl into the pad, cause pain when walking, and affect posture over time. A sedated trim allows our team to address all nails thoroughly and, where appropriate, inspect the paw pads and surrounding structures at the same time. We discuss sedation protocols with you in advance and ensure your pet is assessed for suitability before proceeding.

Sedated Shave

A full coat clip under veterinary supervision may be recommended when a pet's coat cannot be managed by conventional grooming methods, when skin conditions require better access for assessment and ongoing care, or when medical circumstances call for coat removal. Our team performs sedated shaves with attention to both the medical goal and your pet's comfort. The coat is clipped to an appropriate length for the situation, skin health is assessed at the same time, and recovery is monitored before your pet goes home.

Explore More Services

Medical services for skin and coat concerns

Pet care services including ear and nail care

Surgical services including soft tissue surgery

FAQs

How do I know if my pet's matting requires veterinary grooming instead of a regular groomer?
If the mats are tight against the skin, cover a large area of the body, or if your pet becomes very distressed or reactive when touched, veterinary grooming is the safer option. Attempting to remove severe mats without appropriate supervision can cause skin tears, significant stress, and injury. Our team can assess the extent of the matting and determine the safest approach for your specific pet.
Is sedation safe for my pet during a grooming visit?
Sedation for medical grooming is generally very well tolerated, but every pet is assessed individually before it is recommended. Our team reviews your pet’s health history and current status before recommending sedation, and a veterinarian is present throughout. Some pets with certain health conditions may require additional precautions or a modified approach. We will discuss all of this with you before proceeding so you can make an informed decision.
Can my cat receive medical grooming at Gladys Pet Hospital?
Yes. Our medical grooming services are available for both dogs and cats. Cats can develop severe matting, particularly long-haired breeds, and may be difficult to groom safely without sedation. Our team is experienced in managing both species safely during grooming procedures, and we take particular care with cats given their sensitivity to stress and handling.

If your pet needs grooming that goes beyond what a standard salon can safely offer, Gladys Pet Hospital's medical grooming team is here to help. Serving Abbotsford and surrounding communities, open seven days a week. Call (604) 850-2000 or book at https://gladysvet.ca/appointment-booking/ to discuss your pet's needs.

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