Writer For Hire collaborated with a grooming business to write a 75-page pet grooming manual. Here is an excerpt from that manual:

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN EXAMINATION

During the initial examination process, you will want to feel for any noticeable mats in the pet’s coat.  If you find that the coat is heavily matted, then this would be the time to ask the owner what type of hairstyle is best for their pet.  Most owners have an idea of how they want their pet to look.  In some cases, due to the condition of the coat or age of the dog, it is impossible or inappropriate to give the pet a certain type of hairstyle.

Another part of the examination process is checking the pet’s ears.  A foul smelling ear discharge is a good indication that the pet may have an infection.  During the grooming process, the pet will put up plenty of resistance if you attempt to clean its ear.  It is my opinion that if you do find that the pet has a possible ear infection, it would be best not to clean the ear in its entirety.  By leaving some discharge in the ear, you will aid the veterinarian in properly diagnosing the problem.

Checking the pet’s teeth is also a good idea.  If the pet has tooth decay, it will be very painful for the pet if you attempt to shave around the muzzle.  The mouth tissue is very tender when this is the case.  You will usually find this to be a problem in older pets.

If you notice anything on the pet such as moles, bald patches or injuries, mark them down on your examination card and ask the owner how it happened or if they know about the injures.  When you are done filling out the card, ask the owner if there is anything else they want you to be aware of.