one-to-one Dog Grooming
handstripping
1. Purpose
This Hand-Stripping Policy outlines the standards, procedures and expectations relating to hand-stripping services provided by K9 Glow Up.
Hand-stripping is a specialist grooming technique used to remove dead coat from wire-coated breeds in order to maintain correct coat texture, colour, skin health and breed-specific appearance. As hand-stripping is a highly specialised service, not all dogs or coat types are suitable candidates.
The welfare, comfort and safety of every dog remain our highest priority throughout the grooming process.
2. Suitability Assessment
Prior to commencing hand-stripping, K9 Glow Up will assess:
• Breed and coat type.
• Coat condition.
• Skin condition.
• Age and general health.
• Behaviour and handling tolerance.
• Previous grooming history.
We reserve the right to refuse, modify or discontinue hand-stripping where it is not considered appropriate, safe or in the best interests of the dog.
3. Coat Requirements
For optimal results, dogs should attend appointments with a clean, dry coat unless otherwise agreed.
Hand-stripping is generally most successful where:
• The dog has a wire or harsh coat type.
• The coat has been maintained on a regular grooming schedule.
• The coat has not been routinely clipped.
• The coat is free from excessive matting or compaction.
Hand-stripping may not be appropriate where the coat is:
• Matted.
• Severely impacted.
• Damaged by previous clipping.
• Excessively soft.
• Overgrown beyond a manageable maintenance stage.
In such cases, clipping or alternative grooming methods may be recommended.
Owners should be aware that clipped coats may require several growth cycles before hand-stripping becomes viable again, and in some cases normal coat texture may never fully return.
4. The Hand-Stripping Process
Hand-stripping involves the manual removal of loose, dead coat from the follicle using specialised grooming techniques and tools.
The process:
• Promotes healthy coat regeneration.
• Maintains correct coat texture and colour.
• Reduces coat softening associated with clipping.
• Helps maintain breed-standard appearance.
• May improve skin ventilation and coat management.
The amount of coat removed will depend upon:
• Coat condition.
• Breed requirements.
• Coat growth cycle.
• Welfare considerations.
• The dog's tolerance of the procedure.
5. Welfare and Comfort
K9 Glow Up operates a welfare-first approach at all times.
Whilst hand-stripping should not be painful when performed correctly on a suitable coat, some dogs may find the process tiring or uncomfortable due to the length of the appointment or sensitivity of certain areas.
We continuously monitor for signs of:
• Stress.
• Fatigue.
• Anxiety.
• Discomfort.
• Skin sensitivity.
If a dog's welfare becomes compromised, we may:
• Reduce the amount of coat removed.
• Modify the groom.
• Schedule additional appointments.
• Discontinue the procedure altogether.
Any decision made in the interests of the dog's welfare shall be final.
6. Puppies and First-Time Hand-Stripping Clients
Puppies and dogs new to hand-stripping may require shorter introductory sessions to allow gradual acclimatisation to the grooming process.
Multiple appointments may be necessary before a full hand-strip can be completed safely and comfortably.
7. Appointment Frequency
To maintain a healthy rolling coat and achieve the best results, appointments are generally recommended every 6 to 12 weeks, depending on:
• Breed.
• Coat type.
• Coat growth cycle.
• Individual grooming requirements.
Failure to maintain a regular schedule may affect coat quality and future suitability for hand-stripping.
8. Pricing
Hand-stripping appointments are priced according to:
• Breed and size.
• Coat condition.
• Time required.
• Amount of coat removal.
• Behaviour and handling requirements.
• Complexity of the groom.
Additional charges may apply for heavily overgrown, impacted or neglected coats requiring significantly longer appointment times.
9. Fleas and Parasites
If fleas, ticks or other parasites are discovered during the appointment:
• Grooming may be modified or discontinued.
• Additional cleaning and sanitation charges may apply.
• Veterinary treatment may be required before future appointments can be booked.
Please refer to our Health & Safety Policy for further details.
10. Aftercare
Following a hand-strip, the skin may be temporarily more sensitive than normal.
Owners are advised to:
• Avoid bathing their dog for at least 5–7 days following the appointment.
• Avoid swimming during this period where possible.
• Avoid applying shampoos, sprays or topical products unless advised by a veterinary professional.
• Brush the coat gently between appointments if appropriate for the breed.
• Monitor the skin and coat for any signs of irritation.
Regular maintenance appointments are recommended to support healthy coat growth and minimise coat compaction.
11. Potential Side Effects and Complications
As with any grooming procedure, there are inherent risks associated with hand-stripping.
Temporary and generally self-limiting effects may include:
• Mild skin redness.
• Skin sensitivity.
• Temporary irritation.
• Increased scratching.
• Localised inflammation.
• Tenderness in stripped areas.
In rare cases, more significant reactions may occur, including:
• Follicular irritation.
• Skin infections.
• Localised hair loss.
• Coat changes.
• Delayed skin sensitivity reactions.
Owners should seek veterinary advice if they have concerns regarding their dog's condition following a hand-strip.
12. Furunculosis
Post-grooming furunculosis is a rare but recognised inflammatory skin condition that can occasionally occur following grooming procedures, including hand-stripping.
Symptoms may include:
• Redness.
• Swelling.
• Skin lesions.
• Pustules.
• Pain or discomfort.
• Excessive licking or scratching.
Although uncommon, this condition can develop despite appropriate grooming techniques and standards of care.
Owners should seek prompt veterinary attention if any of these signs develop following grooming.
Veterinary diagnosis and treatment remain the responsibility of the owner.
13. Limitation of Liability
K9 Glow Up will always exercise reasonable care, skill and professionalism when carrying out hand-stripping services.
However, owners acknowledge and accept that:
• Hand-stripping is a specialist grooming process involving the removal of coat from hair follicles.
• Individual dogs may react differently to the procedure.
• Certain skin sensitivities, allergic reactions, underlying medical conditions or coat abnormalities may not be visible prior to grooming.
• Temporary redness, irritation, inflammation or discomfort can occur even where the procedure has been carried out correctly.
• Rare complications, including post-grooming furunculosis, may occur despite appropriate grooming standards.
K9 Glow Up shall not be held responsible for:
• Pre-existing skin conditions.
• Undisclosed medical conditions.
• Coat damage resulting from previous clipping or poor coat maintenance.
• Reactions arising from underlying health conditions.
• Veterinary treatment required as a result of pre-existing or undiagnosed conditions.
• Naturally occurring skin reactions or complications associated with hand-stripping where reasonable care and skill have been exercised.
Nothing within this policy shall exclude or limit liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence, fraud, or any other liability which cannot legally be excluded under UK law.
14. Cancellation Policy
Hand-stripping appointments require significant time allocation and preparation.
Clients are requested to provide a minimum of 48 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
Late cancellations, missed appointments or repeated non-attendance may result in a cancellation fee being charged in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
15. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required due to changes in legislation, industry best practice, insurance requirements or business operations, whichever occurs first.
Document Version: 1.0
Effective Date: 01 June 2026
Review Date: 01 June 2027