I hang a dog refused by groomers

For happy hoodie, de-shedding shampoo and conditioner + more pet products visit: www.girlwiththedogs.com

[@SimplyTina53]

I groomed an 18 yr old cat. It was heartbreaking. Unfortunately it was his last groom. People don't realize that as groomers we cry for these clients❤️

[@orangebeagle3068]

:(

[@cerebraltackle]

My wife gave ours his last "baffers". While it was an honor, it was gut wrenching. We still miss him dearly. Love that pooch so much. Love you every single day Sully Boy.

[@sirenenoire4091]

They just don’t live long enough. 😢

[@Madnessmakes]

@@stillme340I cry as a viewer, I can’t imagine what it’s like for you.💜

[@BewareTheLilyOfTheValley]

@@stillme340 The owners might not have the physical capabilities of grooming the pet. We saw everything it took for Vanessa to groom Figa and the amount of groomers who sadly had to turn her away. And I believe she said (in another video) that the presence of the owner can make things worse. I wouldn't shame the owners as we don't know what's fully going on. We're only seeing part of the picture here. And either way, their beloved pet is close to its last days, the last thing they need is condemnation. I'm happy they wanted to send her off with dignity.

[@MsStarsea]

You can see about halfway through that she realises this is actually making her feel better, even though she doesn't love it. The progress from you attempting to trim her face at the beginning, when she's yelling in fear and confusion, to the end when she's grumbling but understands what you're doing, was really impressive to watch. I think she felt so much better after the bath. It sucks to get old.

[@utuberhoda]

This is the best comment. You’re absolutely right and couldn’t have said it better ♥️

[@tinderbox218]

I think part of it was she just tired herself out

[@ShesAaRebel]

@@tinderbox218 Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. People tend to put human emotions to things like this though. Even with the bath, I think it was just her expending the last of her energy, so by the end she just wanted to be held. I do think that animals who receive this care will for sure feel better once they have recovered, compared to the state they were in before. But they don't have the same kind of memory. A dog that is severely matted, and goes to the groomer, and has a bad time, will only associate that time frame with trauma. So no matter how many times they go back, they still won't enjoy it. There are ways to train an animal into tolerating it though. Rewards for good behaviour during the groom are important. This can be done with negative reinforcement, or negative reward. So their reward for good behaviour, is for the thing that is upsetting them is taken away. Example being, maybe they tolerate 2 minutes of grooming with no bite attempts, the grooming takes a break. Then increase to 3, and so forth. Desensitizing them to brushing, face touching, and water as well, while at home. This require lots of time however.

[@auntylinda7640]

I think she saw that her protestations were not working and through fear and tiredness, she gave in. I'm sure a 'reduced' grooming would have been more appropriate due to this dogs age and health status 😪

[@janetryan4612]

Actually stress and pain is exhausting....people are so out of touch with their own bodies that you can't see it in an animal. Was this animal not even given an anti-anxiety med??

[@Kibaheart]

Props to the prior groomer for being honest and productive by offering information and feedback that can help someone else groom the dog, very mature and professional. Lots of groomers just decline dogs like this with no help or suggestions

[@AtarGG]

Also for Vanessa making that connection as well. Well done by all. glad she was able to get nice and clean for an enjoyable summer.

[@Bellz972]

It's professional too that they are being honest about being uncertain if they can safely finish the groom😊. And maybe they don't necessarily know another groomer with better equipment like her.

[@tafellappen8551]

Yeah we had to deal with that with getting our dog’s nails clipped recently. Shes generally sweet but absolutely loses it at nail trimminng and the only place that did manage to cut her nails went out of business. She even knows how to take a muzzle off. We took her to the vet sedated as they directed and they still wouldnt do it and their solution was basically “uuuh lets try this other sedative next time”. Eventually we found a place that cut Most of them.

[@jimbrown2350]

“Be a beautiful corpse”takes on a whole new direction.

[@melaniekendall4903]

Props??

[@briangibson8009]

This wonderful woman has a better bedside manner than most doctors, her caring nature is a privilege to watch

[@michellebonto]

Exactly.

[@BarafuAlbino]

Well, if an adult human patient behaves like this and it is not a mental issue...

[@cameronschyuder9034]

⁠​⁠@@BarafuAlbinoadult humans can communicate (most of them, to certain degrees), whereas dogs have to use what they can to signal their discomfort/needs, which can include acting out. Babies do this too before they learn what the appropriate things to say are. Also, this dog is old, and it did say she recently had a stroke, so I would say mental issues are not out of the question, even if not stated in the video Edit: some comments are saying they’ve seen similar behavior in dogs with dementia, so that further supports my point

[@lenababyyy1482]

@@BarafuAlbinoeven if they did act like that they still deserve dignity and the same amount of care as a patient who didn’t act that way. Hope this helps ❤

[@jennigthatonecrazydoglady8100]

THANK YOU for helping this sweet vintage puppy, and for understanding her protests meant “I’m scared, I’m confused, I’m uncomfortable, I’m achy, I just want to be curled up on the couch with my people.” What a comfort you’ve given both Fica and her people. 💜💜💜💜💜

[@mrsbodeutsch]

I doubt this dogs behavior started with age. She's probably had these behavior issues all her life. If these behaviors came with the onset of age and medical reasons then why is the dog forced to suffer through a groom?

[@l.baughman1445]

@@mrsbodeutsch because the matting is even more painful and damaging for an animal, especially one with special needs. It was stated directly too -- it comes down to quality of life and as upset as the dog was, did you notice how the dog was less intense and calmed down so much more? Lots of breaks, rest, taking time, all counteracts the emotional distress (for everyone). 👍

[@jazzycat8917]

@@mrsbodeutsch "she probably had those issues all her life" Ok so when a previously sweet and gentle Grandpa starts flying into rages and irritability because of his dementia altering his perception and ability tp self regulate, do you point and say "well obviously he was an asshole all his life". There is zero cause or evidence for that accusation.

[@anunknownentity5070]

@@mrsbodeutsch do you know anything about age?

[@AngelicFlash]

@@mrsbodeutsch Vanessa stated that she gave Figa lots of breaks and took a long time with this groom. At some point: it becomes necessary. With Figa's mobility issues, it's probably difficult for her owners to do home grooming for her. If the pet is otherwise happy but uncomfortable getting combed every day, they'll end up in even more discomfort as mats form. The mats pull at already thin skin and just increase the pain. At some point: you have to put them through some temporary stress to make them comfortable for a longer period of time. Vanessa also pointed out this is most likely Figa's last groom. Again: temporary stress to make her more comfortable. Figa was visibly more comfortable near the end of the groom without having all that tension on her skin.

[@Anon_E_Muss]

Thank you for putting this up. People have no idea how stressful and difficult it is to groom elderly dogs, especially elderly dogs with dementia. We do what we can safely, to not stress them out. It's very hard on them. Great work with this little elderly lady! She was upset but you did what you could to clean her up. 💙

[@a.evelyn5498]

I never thought about elderly dogs having dementia.. oh my god that breaks my heart!

[@Anon_E_Muss]

@@a.evelyn5498 they get it. You take care of them as best you can because they're family. It's not the end of the world 😊

[@margodphd]

Especially after stroke:( My beloved 24 year old mutt, Krecio, needed support peeing and standing, we fashioned him an oxygen tent...in our bed. He could have lived much longer, but when he lost his appetite and life in his eyes changed to pain I had to decide to let him go peacefully..I am extremely thankful for my elderly wheelchair bound neighbour after a stroke for telling me that he sees the pain... Other people can often tell what we, seeing them every day, can often miss, that's why regular checkups are so so important.

[@CynfulArts]

My 17 year old mini poodle had it. She would just lay there and cry and she would get spooked when we pet her to try to calm her

[@yaritzamiranda921]

@@a.evelyn5498 same, that's so sad

[@G1ngerFox]

It might not be an "aesthetic" groom, and she felt scared at the beginning of it... but then she realized it really wasn't doing harm, and better, she felt good! So thank you for taking care of that elderly lady so she can spend the rest of her days in comfort with her humans.

[@michelleashleigh]

This was a tough one to watch. What a sweet girl, what a deserving girl. End of life is always hard, but she deserved the dignity you gave her so much.

[@WN_Byers]

You restored dignity to Figa at the end of her life and did so out of service. You are the best

[@babblet3601]

The dogs name was figa? Were the owners Italian.. that's a very specific word

[@SeekingTheLoveThatGodMeans7648]

@@babblet3601In a vulgar Italian sense it's one thing, referring to a female reproductive feature. In a slang Italian sense it is something like "drop dead gorgeous girl" (voluptuous, etc., blazing girl, arm candy) which seems fit for a final grooming near the end of her life. This double sense isn't mirrored in the more prudish English which reserves the c-word for pejoratives if not for anatomy. Poor doggie didn't understand until it was almost completed. My heart went out to that dog as it kept going "aah! aaaah! aaah!" in apparent alarm. And in Polish it's just a fig.

[@babblet3601]

@@SeekingTheLoveThatGodMeans7648 well I heard a lot of Italian boys yelling "bella figa" and laughing hysterically so... Whatever you want it to mean but... To a majority it means the vulgar Italian slang word for a woman's genitalia.

[@rivergreen1727]

As a former caregiver, I read most of her protests as anxiety and fear due to dementia. Unfortunately it's hard enough to reassure humans in those situations; I can only imagine trying to explain anything to an effected dog. You did an amazing job working with her when possible, and working quickly when not. ❤️

[@dogscratchedoor]

I don't see her working quickly at all. She stopped to yak it up every two seconds, meanwhile miserable scared dog is hanging in the air.

[@vp0617]

@@dogscratchedoor She was giving the dog a break every so often so it could calm down.

[@stillhere1425]

Yeah. My mother-in-law was almost as bad until she realized she was going to be showered 3x a week like it or not.

[@stillhere1425]

@@dogscratchedoor You are clearly an expert. I’m sure you would do so much better.

[@stillhere1425]

River Green-Yeah. My mother-in-law was almost as bad until she realized she was going to be showered 3x a week like it or not.

[@ElleWeby]

As an ex nurse, this is something akin to bathing sick humans. This is what happens and sometimes a soul needs helping. You are so kind and your experience shines through 💜💜

[@vyoletrose3218]

I know I’m soft but I didn’t expect my eyes to stream the entire time 😢 Poor little baby. I love how kind and gentle you were with her..those little cries broke my heart. I don’t have dogs but I love them and your channel is a favorite for me. Thank you for everything you do to help! You are wonderful Vanessa.

[@glenysdukes4340]

This made me cry as well. You can tell that she is very loved and it has to be so hard on her people,as well. Many of us have been there...we know the heartache.

[@jen50madison]

Me too! 😢

[@merrieshiparski3353]

So sad ... She was crying 😢

[@nunya8903]

^^Me^^^

[@paigemalloy4276]

I am 100% confident in saying that after the groom, Figa went home and was given a ridiculous amount of love and comfort from her family 💕

[@EchoJ]

Figa’s family is why she’s in such bad hygiene condition 🤨 What kind of people let their fur friends get *this bad* before taking them to the groomer??

[@AnnabethOwl]

@@EchoJ it was said that they tried taking her to groomers and she was rejected by many groomers. It is not the owners fault.

[@ericplunder2744]

@@EchoJ the owners may be elderly as well.

[@Zoe-tj4ld]

@@EchoJ we dont know the situation, all we know is that the dog was turned away by many groomers.

[@Nannie4334]

@@EchoJ Stop judging when you don't know the whole story. The owner's probably elderly or disabled. You don't know, so maybe you should stop judging and realize that she was rejected by a lot of groomers and she was able to do it, because as a professional and able to take the time to do it, she helped the owner out by doing the groom for a dog that's probably not gonna be around long.

[@jaroneller1525]

honestly what i love about this channel is that you didnt tell us this groom was done for free until the last 30 or so seconds. its not an attention grabber, it's not vying for clicks, you dont even want any praise. i love that this channel can give you the freedom to do more good. one of the best ones on yt right!

[@DrNoBrazil]

She wouldn't mention it at all if she was really THAT kind.

[@slowbrofastbro]

@@DrNoBrazil shut up

[@PrincessofKeys]

I mean I don't see whats the problem saying it personally. If its done free than fine she is kind enough perosn for it.

[@PointsofData]

I mean...she put in the title that she's doing a dog refused by other groomers. And "I hung". All of her titles are pretty clickbaity if you pay attention, esp on the main channel; quite a few playing on the idea of certain breeds being dangerous, but I'm not shaming her since she makes sure to educate in her videos and ultimately the clickbaitiest ones (like this) she talks about the stigmas and nuances of the situation.

[@PointsofData]

@user-jq2js9bj3c the kindness is also in spreading awareness of how often pets in very loving homes can get into terrible shape because of issues outside of the pet owners control. As someone who grew up below the poverty line and lived in a motel with three pets at one point, I'm extremely grateful that she gives context for the animals condition and doesn't let people assume someone who was able to pay for a grooming appointment just...didn't until now.

[@lindasudduth8995]

Poor baby...I feel bad for her...😢But..I am amazed with your love for these dogs. You have a gift, such patience. Bless you for all you do...❤

[@haileymarie1168]

My little maltese Muffin had her last groom at 18 years old. She passed away 2 weeks later. She was such a sweet little girl and her groomers loved her so much. Although grooming can be stressful, it had to be done. At her age, she would occasionally go to the bathroom on herself and we needed to prevent matting in that area. Her groomers took their time with her and gave her so much care and respect. So thankful for loving groomers like you that care for elderly dogs

[@amandak.5354]

She may not look perfect, but I bet she feels so much better. She's definitely a sweet dog. She was obviously scared but didn't get bitey - what a blessing of a pup for her owners ❤

[@FarmerFpv]

But she did get extremely bity. She just doesn't have any teeth. Actually, she was trying to gum her the whole time.

[@r3dp9]

@@FarmerFpv Nah, she was most bitey in the middle. At the end and very early on she was doing her best to behave.

[@UltimoDogLover]

She was very bitey. Her quality of life is gone. It's time for her to cross the Rainbow Bridge, which her owners acknowledge. They said it's her last groom.

[@2catsandacorgi386]

As a vet technician for 16 years I am so proud of you when watching your videos but especially this one ! We see geriatric pets constantly that are in poor condition because owners can't get help and you can tell her quality of life improved immediately after. Thank you for everything you do!!!

[@blanketyblank604]

Vanessa is a true professional and caring groomer.

[@warrenpuckett4203]

It has been 7 years since my 12 lb ball of anger with the scissors or clipper was able to enter a grooming salon. I ran out of ones that she would go into. Also and her bark hurts your ears. Just this. If you do it. Remember to lube the clipper with silicon lube to keep it cool. Some numb brain clipped her with dull hot clippers and burned her belly twice. They do wiggle around even the calm ones do. So I do it one step a day. She is 14 and has all of her teeth. I will NOT get another oodle mix again. My Tervuven was easy. Just needed a brush and a couple big paper sacks in the Spring and that is it. Plus he liked it. A bath not so much. But Buttercup was a Tervuren made to my landlord's specifications. Plus he was very territorial. Just what you need in and around Inglewood, CA. I left CA after he died.

[@deawinter]

Our dog got groomed the week before we had to let him go. His mobility was going, and it let him be comfortable and, frankly, made it more pleasant to hold and pet and let him sleep in our beds for his last days. I know some people might think, why bother, but I know from experience how much this surely meant to her and her owners, no matter how much time she has left.

[@traciprovins3221]

I just cried throughout the video. It doesn’t compare, but I had an acquaintance do a photo session when I knew it was my dog’s last Christmas. He did it quickly and for free. I will appreciate it forever. That was my soul dog. I have a puppy now who recently turned 1 who I love to death, but he will never be my Jakey. I rescued Jake at 3 and had him from age 24-34. I can’t imagine how grateful the owners were to you for this, with the condition of the dog, at least making their baby comfortable and presentable for the end of its life ❤️❤️❤️This broke me

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi tracia where are you from

[@trustbuster23]

This brings back some tough memories. We had a Husky who had no outward problems beyond the usual arthritis of an old dog, but then, at 15, her mind started to go. Dementia in dogs is just brutal, and this is what it looks like. Learn from our experience - when they start aimlessly wandering around the house confused, it is time, no matter what their physical condition seems to be. We held on longer than we should have, to our regret. Sometimes love means letting go.

[@jrshaul]

I don't want to go into details, but you're entirely correct.

[@kaiyakershaw1028]

I’m so sorry you went through that. My husband and I went through that with our 15 1/2 year old rat terrier mix a year ago. It was a really tough call to make, but she was ready.

[@mariyamwaniki]

And that's the hardest thing. I lost both my cats during COVID-19. My daughter did the vet thing, I couldn't do it. I'm very proud of my daughter( she's an adult). My cats were 15 and 16. Miss them so much.

[@carolprobert3948]

My Mom had such difficulty letting go of her sweet pug Nikki. She had a great life with my Mom. She lived to a ripe old age of 16 with a lot of TLC! Near the end she developed dementia and it was heartbreaking. Mom loved her enough to know she was doing the right thing to let her go.

[@soggypaws4944]

I agree, between the doggie dementia and this dog has suffered a stroke you have to put the dogs quality of life first and peacefully let them go if the grooming process is too hard on them its just not fair.

[@cheryleverhart3786]

This one just broke my heart. I know that all dogs get old, but seeing her struggle so was just heartbreaking. I cried most of the way through it. Thank you for helping this dog.

[@byrongilbert3720]

me too

[@katiekane5247]

Hard to let them go but it's the loving thing to do. This old gal isn't having quality of life IMO

[@aa1greg]

Get a grip, Cheryl 🙄

[@ossia1708]

@@aa1greg Have a heart, Greg

[@suzawilo]

@@katiekane5247 Ikr. And I feel like it might have been a good idea to let her go a lot earlier. I know most Americans are "oh do not kill" but elderly dogs aren't meant to go on no matter what. I had to euthanize my dog at 14,5 due to a tumor.She still had life in her, we were happily settled into our life as 2 spinsters but I would not have her go through things just because over medicalised pet industry. She was a dog, loved her dearly and to this day I'm happy I was able to "pull the plug" before her illness made her incapable of living a dog's life.

[@shirleybender]

As difficult as that was to watch… I am very proud of you and proud of the pet owners. My grandma had a teacup poodle that in the end was not able to get groomed… It made it difficult to pet her because of all of her matting… And she became so smelly from all the rotting food in her beard and the poop on her bum … even though it was difficult for an hour or so… You gave her dignity and approachability for the rest of her life. As much as I did love my grandma‘s poodle it was very difficult those last few months to love her and hold her like we had done for the first 14 years of her life

[@kellybeverly3601]

You help me to keep believing not everybody is "angry" in today's world. Kindness does such good. You are DEFINITELY a contributor to the good!!!

[@Aeonmancer]

Major respect to you for being so gentle and patient with this tiny, elderly lady. I particularly appreciated how you took the time to soothe her throughout.

[@cq9882]

Such beautiful comments. Thank You. 🐶

[@gastonbell108]

Doggie dementia is real and a helluva thing. I knew one that was so demented at the end he couldn't sleep, he'd wake himself up howling with nightmares.

[@clyb3926]

I'm really glad you pointed out that not all groomers can be expected to do something like this. That you have special equipment and the time to do a challenging groom like this that other groomers may not have available. That's really important to know. You did a great job! Sweet puppers.

[@shahilllove]

I love how you address her. This triggered true anxiety in her. This session pulled on my heart strings.

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi shah where are you from 😊

[@chelseaharmon9580]

Ms. Figs looks and definitely feels better. I love that her owner had her groomed in her advanced age to make sure that she is comfortable.

[@momofschnauzers]

With a history of stroke, one of my biggest fears grooming was that the pupper would suffer another one with me being groomed. Great job with this wee one.

[@RayvenFeather]

I gave my 18 year old cat a bath the day before she died. She was unstable like this and had been unable to groom herself for a while. I did my best with cat wipes to keep her clean but I finally ended up giving her a bath. She was so smelly and I felt so bad for her-in her prime she was very attentive and kept herself as clean as possible at all times. I didn’t know it was her last day at the time but I’m glad that I was at least able to give her a little bit of her dignity back before the end. It was heartbreaking though, we’re thinking that a tumor on her tail spread up her spine so she had trouble eating towards the end, she was so skinny while all wet. My poor little baby. Rest in peace ❤

[@diane5593]

Love you for that!, I'm in same boat right now, bean 17😢

[@christrujilllo6059]

😢 so sorry for your loss.

[@danielleking262]

This reminds me of my first cat. I think she was only 13 when she died. She needed dental work and stopped grooming herself, so I scheduled a cleaning the first day and a grooming the next day thinking she would feel better and not lick herself with a nasty mouth. She ended up passing away not even a week later. 💔

[@gailremp8389]

You were good kitty moms. Really. They know you did your best. And you know it too. May God bless.

[@workingmothercatlover6699]

It's always hard to watch an aging family member deteriorate. I'm sorry for your loss.

[@amiralions2681]

Aw, she totally warmed up to you after the grooming, using her little side shuffle to get close to you 🥰

[@nicola6530]

Poor girl, she's so stressed but she needed this love and care to be clean and comfortable. This is how extreme one of my dogs used to react to having her nails cut. It took years to get her comfortable. I so wish we could explain to them that they're safe. 💜

[@kimj.6669]

This was the hardest video for me to watch. My sweet boy was 16 when he passed. He got to a point where local groomers refused to groom him. I tried my best to keep his hair trimmed. He was my best friend and I miss him terribly. Thank you so much for the kindness you showed Figa and her family. You are the best!

[@Raelven]

Going through that right now. It's incredibly difficult both emotionally, and to accomplish.

[@hydewhyte4364]

Had to stop the vid 4 times.

[@amandaheck7897]

She went from "Don't touch me!" to "I still don't like this but I'll let you do it because I do feel better." You were a blessing to her.

[@user-zt6yr9wh7j]

You are a gem. You are just a peach. Your kindness, compassion just shone bright in this video. Yes, older dogs are precious and wish every dog could be groomed by you.

[@katheeelder6908]

So well said ❤

[@MaryWehmeier]

Vanessa,, Thank you. You gave her her dignity back one last time. I raised schnauzers for 20+ years. That cry of an elderly schnauzer brought back tears and memories. ❤️

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi Mary where are you from?

[@ShannonR1969]

Poor Figa. Thank you, Vanessa, for treating her so kindly and realizing that she's just scared, confused and sore, not angry.

[@jrose8085]

Kudos to you for getting through that. 24 years as a groomer (now retired) and I was the groomer for all the rejects from other shops. It takes incredible patience and know how to get through something like this, as I've done it many times myself. It's so difficult and often times heartbreaking to try to help when your client is in desperate need, but has no idea what is going on and why you're doing what you're doing. I love it on the few occasions when the little old ones have that "Ah Ha" lucid moment, stop struggling so much, as they realize you're trying to help and that they are feeling better. Thank you for doing what others cannot or will not and providing comfort and care when they need it most.

[@reapsow3003]

Thanks for what you did ❤️😊 grooming seems so challenging

[@choschiba-music]

Incredible to see how much she calmed down and started trusting you.

[@BethBurns68]

Bless you for taking care of this little old doggy. She looks 100% better and I think she feels a ton better, too.

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi Elizabeth where are you from?

[@len452000]

Ain’t gonna lie… if she were my dog I would be in tears when I picked her up after this groom. The transformation was an amazing gift to the dog and the owners.

[@quaver1239]

Whew. I’ve not ever heard a dog scream like that. Poor, suffering little old lady. The Girl With the Dogs is a simply wonderful person, spending an entire day with the little dog and eventually calming her down. I will always remember this. Thank you for sharing so much of it with us. ❤

[@janrankin2457]

That old puppy was quite a challenge for you. Thank God you have this channel to help animals in need, God bless you and your family.

[@LoisChisholm]

Bless you for taking care of dogs like Figa. This is a great example of a comfort groom and so necessary for special needs seniors.

[@galatea5455]

You said she doesn't look fantastic, but she looks SO MUCH BETTER! You did an amazing job and I'm sure Figa and her owner are very grateful.

[@Operational117]

This is why Vanessa is a grandmaster groomer. And we as viewers and supporters (as she said in this video) have enabled her to take on such titanic appointments and complete them with flying colors. This dog may not be long for this world, but she will forever be in our hearts.

[@Genjustice92]

I just lost my 18 year old pupper Shelby 2 days ago. Thank you for showing so much love to these elderly dogs.

[@kathyflorcruz552]

💜

[@maryeckel9682]

So sorry for your loss

[@judithhowell6654]

@Genjustice92 How heartbreaking to lose your 18 yr old fur baby. You and Shelby had 18 wonderful years. God bless.

[@spiralrose]

May Shelby rest in peace. What a beautiful name

[@LaureninGermany]

I‘m so sorry. It’s so painful.

[@katheeelder6908]

Ank you for your kindness & compassion. That was hard to watch and made me choke up. I can't imagine being with her all that time. Your heart must have been breaking too. 😢 Some dignity for this sweet little girl

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi kathee where are you from 😊

[@sabriguzman]

She started feeling better for sure. Thank you for your transparency and gentleness

[@pattisimmons67]

This touched my heart. This little one did not need "any" groomer. She NEEDED YOU! You did a great job. She looked so much better and I know how much better she felt.

[@andimurray2896]

Man!! I felt every tear and every scream of this poor pup!! Thank you, Girl w/the Dogs, for your loving kindness & patience with this one.

[@sherrydee7880]

Schnauzers are a very vocal breed, so to hear her "scream" in this video wasn't too surprising to me. You did an AMAZING job of not allowing her to intimidate you into stopping due to fear (hers or yours). It's rare to find any groomer these days with the patience to deal with the aging dog. I have a 15 year old Standard Schnauzer that I must do myself and it takes me over a week to complete a full body shave every 4 months. I have the scars to prove it too, so watching you groom this dog has given me a few ideas to use on my own pooch in his arthritic years of doggie dementia. The Pluto Living channel also has tips and tricks to help owners of older dogs with anti slip socks and even using low cost yoga mats on the floor to help these woobely legged dogs walk across slick floors inside the house. The less they slip around, the less they fall and this means less vet bills due to injuries.

[@KristenRowenPliske]

She reminds me of the grandmas & grandpas with full-blown dementia/Alzheimer’s, who are admitted to hospitals and don’t know what the heck is going on. Maybe they remember some of their family but most of them know they’re not in their usual place and it terrifies them. I’m glad you were able to help this lady.

[@diaml]

I can only imagine how emotional that groom was for you since I was crying on this end. I’m sure the owner was really grateful. Thank you for all you do! ❤️

[@sherrykiskunas3601]

I was crying also for this elderly, sick pup😢

[@dianeb1405]

Thank you so much for helping Figa. What a big difference. I can't imagine how she felt prior to coming to you.

[@truderenken3248]

To see the precious girl's anxiety level dissipate, and stop groaning was a wonderful thing. Your care has given her what we used to call "a new lease on life" 💖

[@alicelee5045]

I suspect this was one of your most difficult grooms and most rewarding too. I am glad that all of our support allows you to focus on the most needy pets who will benefit from your kindness and expertise. I am sure Figa's loving and devoted humans are deeply grateful to you.

[@susanbender2953]

Yes

[@suzawilo]

How loving are they really to torture it like this?🙄 Sometimes it's just the kindest to let them go.

[@aatroxie]

@@suzawilo what do you mean? this isn't torture lol i'm so confused on what you're on about

[@tinalyzhen]

@@aatroxie i think they mean how the matting got so bad without the owners taking care of it earlier on

[@aatroxie]

@@tinalyzhen i'm pretty sure that is explained though since she said the dog kept getting refused by groomers due to the doggo struggling to keep itself up and how nervous it was.

[@SilverFlame119]

I've watched a lot of grooming videos over the past few months but honestly this is the first one to make me cry. Her whining is just so heartbreaking, she's so confused and scared. Thank you for taking the time and patience to take such gentle care of her, it didn't seem like it was easy on either of you.

[@seamarie3111]

I know; each of her cries tore at my heart; the poor dear was terrified! I'm so glad she was able to take her and be so gentle. I've never had a dog that old; the closest was 14. One of these went blind/deaf so the last year or so of his life he stopped making sounds altogether. I am glad this sweetheart's owners cared about her enough to try getting her cleaned and feeling better.

[@ebenezermarley]

Poor soul. It's heart breaking when they get old and unwell. She's a lovely wee soul 😘

[@Poutnicek]

You can really see how much she relaxed towards the end of the groom. She definitely felt better. You can tell that the grumbles at the end are just general unhappy camper noises, not the scared yell she made at the beginning. What a sweet, brave girl. ♥

[@PoobiePants]

This was definitely a tougher watch; her little cries were so heart-wrenching. But boy is this an important video. Thank you for sharing and educating about dogs and their needs on such a wide scale. I'm glad you are in the position to help dogs like these when others can't. She definitely looked more comfortable with all of that awful hair taken off. I hope she has a good amount of time with her family and that she experiences as little suffering as possible

[@mircat28]

Shave the dog every 3 to 4 months! Making her have anxiety just to get a pattern or shape is mean!

[@campbellmccord6339]

This one was hard to watch, but it's so good you're sharing all sides of grooming and not just the fun cute puppies. Thank you for sticking it out and helping that sweet little old lady. I know she must feel SO much better.

[@glenmacnicol7825]

I had a large standard poodle mix (picture a VERY large Bichon) and I remember his last bath. He was 17 and small strokes had caused him to loose his mental faculties. The looks of confusion and distress in his eyes broke my heart and I held him in my arms, the two of us in the shower together. He calmed, but I promised him no more. Its about the pet and what they need. I had to put him to sleep, but my vet kindly came to my house to not distress him with an office trip. He went peacefully in his own bed and no more fear, just peace. No matter when they go, they will, and you'll grieve. So, do what's best for them.

[@nuclearhotseat1550]

Your patience and kindness are astonishing, and wonderful to watch in action.

[@berglettemom6045]

You’re a hero in my eyes, Vanessa. We had three miniature schnauzers over 24 years, and all of them were difficult to groom when they were elderly. It is quite a challenge. You did an amazing job.

[@franciscook5819]

I'm not a dog groomer but you showed a marvellous degree of understanding and care to this poor old ailing dog and, as you said, calmed her down to the extent that she accepted that what was happening was helpful. You are a bit of a star groomer on the quiet and this is an excellent example of what can be achieved (by you, if not others).

[@annettethomas2770]

Poor baby. Thank you for the great work you do. She may already be in doggie heaven running healthy and free.

[@src4409]

It's awesome to have this knowledge available. People without knowledge just buy a cute puppy and don't think of any care required beyond feeding it and maybe occasionally bathing it themselves. I've been guilty of owning dogs that ended up being way more work than I thought. This helps me teach my kids for their future.

[@adarlingdemondemise]

Honestly, I've never met a mini schnauzer who WASN'T super vocal and dramatic- especially when upset or excited. This is just the elderly evolution of that. Poor baby must have been so stressed- thank you for helping this sweet girl!

[@crystalcorbett1705]

Ur comment made me cry

[@wolvensong18]

For all the stress and fear she felt, I'm sure it paled in comparison to the comfort and relief she felt afterwards. You are so kind, patient, and professional. Thank you so much, not only for what you do, but for sharing it with us. This isn't the side I feel a lot of people see, and it's important!

[@cynthiasmith8136]

👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🎉🎊

[@julie9785]

Compassion,Empathy,Patience,and such a generous soul you are Vanessa! You not only educate us,but also inspire us to give back,and share our individual areas of expertise with others . Huge hugs and thanks 😊

[@BlinkinFirefly]

She just made fret noises the whole time, with every breath she took while getting groomed, poor puppers. You did such an amazing job with her, and I think eventually she warmed up to you and trusted you. You have a big heart for doing this work!

[@rina123456]

This was such a hard watch. It broke my heart, but she really needed you. Thank you for taking the time to get this groom done. I hope whatever time she has left is peaceful and happy. I'm so glad us supporting you is helping you help animals in need. Thank you so much.

[@dkeue-k-fkzlsk]

The change, not just in how she looks but in her demeanor, was astounding. I'm sure that even if Figa doesn't fully understand what's happening she appreciates the increase in her quality of life in her last weeks/months

[@deborahgunn-hutton4436]

She says , momma , I want momma. My dog baby was crippled in her last days. She didn't want to go, but I had to let her. My heart goes out to her momma. Thank you for making her last days better.

[@MarinaJBoyd]

Figa reminds me of my own mom at the end. She only had strength enough to fight me trying to make her more comfortable (cause she didn't want to bother me having to get up to get her something, only to help her get up after falling). May all the old girls who put in their time, rest in peace.

[@UzziHD]

It’s a dog 😂

[@laurengarcia1023]

This was such a surprisingly emotional video. There is nothing worse than a scared animal or baby and you can't explain to them what's happening. She was so sweet and obviously felt so much better. Thanks for all you do to help!

[@EchosJourney]

Thank you for addressing the need to use the sling. Just today I heard a groomer complaining about how much dogs were so frightened in the sling. I believe people don't take into account the dog needing The Grooming versus becoming matted.

[@stardoll1995]

My dog was professionally groomed his whole life at least twice a year until he passed at 17yos, the groomers on one of his last grooms loved him and his sweet disposition so much they even gathered around and took a photo with him, it's a photo to this day that leaves me very emotional and so did this video, I couldn't even watch properly because my eyes were just full of tears the entire time ngl

[@KylaFallenAngel124]

ngl this video made me cry and want to go hug my little chihuahua, she's getting up there, almost 10yrs. Even though the vet said she's the healthiest chihuahua they've ever seen for her age I'm still worried every day about when will be her last. She's been so good to me, I always like to say that she was born perfect. She doesn't bark, loves everyone and everything, comes and comforts me any time i'm feeling down without me even asking, she's an absolute genius- i've run out of tricks to teach her and she masters every puzzle i give her, she's been perfect off least since the day i got her, not to mention all her adorable little quirks. i just know i'm gonna miss her so much. the last time i lost a dog i had this much of a bond with it was very traumatic and sudden and i still, 11 years later, am not over it so i'm so scared for the day to come again

[@susantretakis9915]

Vanessa….I am 72 years old and I am watching you from. South Florida. I do not have a pet - and even so - this channel is a delight . I’m impressed with your skill, your compassion, your sense of humor and ALL you do for animals. You give me reason to believe in people.

[@vickyvey1657]

Yeah, I dont have any pets but love watching her and giving commentaries.

[@denverdubois5835]

Awww. At the end there I think she just wanted nothing more than a big hug and to fall asleep in your lap. What a sweetheart you are to help this dear old lady. What haunts me about elderly animals is our common....humanity, if you will. Something in the tone of an elderly dog's barks or an elderly cat's meows literally reminds me of my late grandmother's voice. We all get old, and it's never easy. Thank you for your kindness.

[@fondasharkey-wyatt9944]

Thank you for helping this little munchkin. They all deserve to have a good end of life.

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi fonda where are you from?

[@Tiewaz]

She looks amazing from what we could see from the start. I am glad she was able to calm down, though I wonder how much of that was just exhausting herself to the point she finally noticed that she WAS feeling better.

[@LivingHT22]

Awww. Poor baby. It’s obviously distressing but the groom is for her health. ❤

[@feelah2]

Lovely how she went from hysterical to seemingly realizing you are an ally. Well done.

[@RrrRrrRo736]

You are a guardian angel on this earth. I am so happy how are able to do charity work and you deserve all the success TEN FOLD!

[@jinoshiosote4049]

I love your patience. It is so easy to see how much you care for the babies. Your voice is soothing and your touch gentle. I am so glad that you have made it your calling to help the babies that would otherwise not be able to be groomed. Hugs! 🤗

[@a.evelyn5498]

You can definitely see how she calmed down after you got the bulk off of her body as she indeed must have been far more comfortable. You’re an angel. I’d cry the whole time.

[@ErinPlaysSims]

I can't believe she's 16 years old and still maintained her black fur. I'm sure she felt instantly better after getting all those mats and tangles off her and could live out the remainder of her time in ease and peace.

[@babblet3601]

Lol dogs don't go straight white the way humans do. Just thins out and gets wispy with wiry strands

[@puddypudding9609]

​@@babblet3601many older dogs get a type of frost around their mourha / the fur around their face becomes whiter

[@puddypudding9609]

​@@babblet3601many older dogs get a type of frost around their mourha / the fur around their face becomes whiter

[@aftersexhighfives]

​@@babblet3601Think she meant specifically around the face. Because my dog has a bunch of Gray around her face and most older dogs do. But yes we can all agree that their body hair rarely changes. But their muzzles usually go gray.

[@leelei4636]

That poor baby...breaks my heart. Bless you Vanessa for helping her.

[@sharonreeves9093]

Bless you for helping this "mature" lady. You have a heart of gold, and I know she has to feel so much better ❤

[@thumbsarehandy.]

I'm not crying, you're crying! 😭 In all seriousness, I am so thankful that you are able and willing to provide this service. You remind me of this other incredible woman I watch - also Canadian I believe - who does free emergency house cleanings on the weekends for people who desperately need them. I think her name is "nottheworstcleaner" or something. She does it entirely free as a volunteer service and it absolutely changes lives, just like how you're changing Figa's life and giving her humans some incredible last days with their "baby". ❤️🥰 Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

[@livableincome]

Thank you for your lovely works. I will look up nottheworstcleaner. I am doing this for just one guy under threat of eviction. He has done many good things in his life - helping people out when he has so little. Putting up with challenging personalities. But no one ever does things for him.

[@coolkid9566]

@aurikatariina from Finland also does these cleanings, you might want to check her out

[@jenpink4298]

Poor little thing! I’m so glad that her people found you to take care of her! You are a blessing to pet parents all over the world!❤

[@basiafournier]

Thank you for being so kind and patient.

[@unbreakable_jules]

It's heartbreaking to see a dog in this condition. But you've done so incredibly great job. And it mustn't be easy at all to remain calm in this situation, seeing the dog suffering so much and still being able to continue for the poor creature's benefit. The resilience you have is unbelievable 😢❤

[@xGabyHdzx]

This is my mini, she is a rescue, and her grooming is so stressful for everyone involved. The best solution as an owner is to brush and try to keep the very, very fine fur from knotting, so either us (we do her grooming, she has been abused or had accidents at groomers before because of being so difficult, we don't blame the accidents at all) or the groomers have the easiest fastest time, and honestly looks are not a priority, just comfort

[@christopherbownes494]

So how did you reach out to Vanessa to arrange this?

[@patreich8690]

This little girl absolutely broke my heart! Wondering if the stroke left her with neurological damage and can’t recall previous grooming! You did a wonderful job and you are so patient!

[@DOMINIKPAULSEN]

WOW! Just amazing this little old lady will feel much better for her last days on this earth. Thank you for being her angel.

[@bonniewagg5711]

You are a true angel on earth. Old age is never fun, especially when there are so many health problems. That groom helps her quality of life and for that, you are blessed.

[@fatkidsdontrun9394]

I can't tell you how much I appreciate you trying on this poor little confused old dog. It's so hard. It's hard to see them in that stage of life. It's hard to put them through that. But I sympathize and I appreciate you doing all you could!