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A bad hair day isn’t exclusive to humans. Animals, unfortunately, get them too.

And these poor pets didn’t just end up with a few tangled fur strands. They went through some unforgettable (and hilarious) transformations that turned out so outrageous, they just had to be shared online.

Scroll down to see these creative “makeovers” and send a little sympathy their way—they could really use it! Plus, don’t miss our conversation with dog groomer Lia Jayne Godding to learn what proper pet grooming truly looks like.

More info: Instagram | TikTok

#1

We Thought He Was Just Fluffy, But Really My Friends Cat Is All Dad Bod

We Thought He Was Just Fluffy, But Really My Friends Cat Is All Dad Bod

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    #2

    This Dog Showed Up To Petsmart And Asked To Speak To The Manager

    This Dog Showed Up To Petsmart And Asked To Speak To The Manager

    ProfessorRetro Report

    People can speak up if a haircut goes south, but pets can’t, which means it’s up to their owners to find a groomer they can rely on.

    To understand what a proper grooming experience should look like (and spot the red flags), Bored Panda got in touch with Lia Jayne Godding, a seasoned dog groomer and captain of Groom Team England, who has over 20 years of experience in the industry.

    According to Godding, every appointment should start with a chat. “A typical grooming session includes a consultation with the owner to discuss any issues with the dog, the haircut they’re after, and any specific preferences they have,” she explains.

    #3

    Whisky Got A Haircut, And We Discovered He Is 90% Head

    Whisky Got A Haircut, And We Discovered He Is 90% Head

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    #4

    My Friends Cat Got Shaved At The Vet And Now She Looks Like A Game Of Exquisite Corpse

    My Friends Cat Got Shaved At The Vet And Now She Looks Like A Game Of Exquisite Corpse

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    “After the consultation and a little cuddle with the dog, the next step is to bring them to the grooming area, remove their collar, and start by clipping their nails and removing any mats before the bath,” Godding continues.

    “Then, they get washed twice, towel-dried, and blasted (a process that uses a high-speed dryer to remove excess water), followed by fluff drying, which is like a blow-dry for humans. Afterwards, we prep them by clipping out pads, cleaning sanitary areas, and combing their coat to get them ready for styling,” she adds.

    Once styled, the final touches are applied. “After clipping or scissoring, they’re usually spritzed with a dog cologne, and a bow is added to their collar. More cuddles, a quick photo session, and a call to the owners let them know their dog is ready to be picked up,” Godding says.

    #5

    Las Vegas Shelter Dog Up For Adption Has A Unique Hairline

    Las Vegas Shelter Dog Up For Adption Has A Unique Hairline

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    #6

    Ready For Vampires

    Ready For Vampires

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    LakotaWolf (she/her)
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I hope pup had mats (or surgery), as one should never shave a Husky for funsies. Also, that collar/chain(?) is horrible. If that's what the doggo has been wearing for a "collar", I wouldn't be surprised if doggo got mats from that.

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    #7

    Please Tell My Parents They’re Terrible At Haircuts

    Please Tell My Parents They’re Terrible At Haircuts

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    Karl der Große
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't leave him on the front porch. People will use him to clean their boots.

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    Some owners may feel anxious about leaving their pets in a groomer’s hands, but a lot of people aren’t fully informed on proper dog grooming. In fact, according to a survey by the British Dog Groomers’ Association, 73% of groomers see pets arrive with matted coats or other signs of poor grooming.

    #8

    I Got My Girl Groomed. This… Is Not What I Was Expecting. I Can’t Stop Laughing

    I Got My Girl Groomed. This… Is Not What I Was Expecting. I Can’t Stop Laughing

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    #10

    Surprise From The Groomers

    Surprise From The Groomers

    Reporter_Tasty Report

    Godding notes that there are many misconceptions about grooming. “A lot of people think only long-haired dogs need regular grooming, but short-coated and double-coated dogs need it too,” she says.

    And the myth that shaving a dog in summer keeps them cool? “Not true!” she points out. “Dogs need some coat to regulate their body temperature. Shaving it too short can actually do more harm than good.”

    #11

    Our Cat Is An Old Longhair Who Won’t Let Us Brush Her And Doesn’t Groom

    Our Cat Is An Old Longhair Who Won’t Let Us Brush Her And Doesn’t Groom

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    Roni Stone
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Poor baby, but this is the only reason (other than skin condition necessity) for this kind of cut.

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    #12

    I Had A Little Too Much Fun With Titus’ Pre-Shave

    I Had A Little Too Much Fun With Titus’ Pre-Shave

    fixie_chick Report

    Another common mistake is over-bathing. “If you’re using a high-quality dog shampoo, it’s fine to wash your dog weekly if needed, especially if they have allergies, skin conditions, or if they just require regular maintenance,” Godding says.

    #14

    My Friend Is A Groomer And Today She Had A Special Request

    My Friend Is A Groomer And Today She Had A Special Request

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    #15

    Puppy With Mohawk Haircut

    Puppy With Mohawk Haircut

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    Callie27
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looks like one of the hyena's from the lion king, from the back at least

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    #16

    So, My Friend's Dog Just Got A Haircut

    So, My Friend's Dog Just Got A Haircut

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    WindySwede
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    At Frankensteins haircuts? 😅 edit, since it looks like two dogs now.

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    “Then there’s the belief that puppies don’t need grooming until they’re a year old because ‘my breeder said so.’ This one really grinds my gears,” she adds. “It’s so important to introduce puppies to grooming early on. They need to build a bond with their groomer, get used to grooming tools, and learn how to stand, be bathed, be clipped—it’s a lot to take in.”

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    “That’s why I start with puppies at 12 weeks, giving them gentle introductions to grooming and establishing a regular schedule,” Godding shares.

    #17

    Does This Count..? I Think It Does

    Does This Count..? I Think It Does

    _sabbracadabra Report

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    Jesse
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    please don't trim the forelocks this badly! horses need them as a natural protection against flies and other bugs, and it takes years to grow back to a natural length!

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    #18

    My Cat Stands Up, When He Hears Bell Noises

    My Cat Stands Up, When He Hears Bell Noises

    Flbudskis Report

    #19

    My Rabbit Just Got A Head Shave By The Vet Because Its Hairs Are Getting Into His Eyes. He Looks Like Old Kung-Fu Master

    My Rabbit Just Got A Head Shave By The Vet Because Its Hairs Are Getting Into His Eyes. He Looks Like Old Kung-Fu Master

    cratts21 Report

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    Bay Bo
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That is the weirdest thing I've seen today ....ummm...wow

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    If you’re not sure where to take your pet for grooming, Godding suggests visiting the salon in person to get a feel for the place and the people. “Check their social media, too, to see if you like their style,” she recommends. And when you pick up your pet, pay attention to their mood. “If your dog seems happy when they leave, that’s a great sign,” she says.

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    #21

    Charlie After He Was Groomed Short And Found Out He Has Rubber Legs

    Charlie After He Was Groomed Short And Found Out He Has Rubber Legs

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    #22

    Took Him For A Trim Because His Back Half Was Starting To Get Dreads. Dropped Off A Pup, Picked Up A Lion

    Took Him For A Trim Because His Back Half Was Starting To Get Dreads. Dropped Off A Pup, Picked Up A Lion

    thserntmyglsses Report

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    LakotaWolf (she/her)
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's not a fail, that's exactly what a groomer is supposed to do if your dog's fur is matted. OP needs to be a responsible owner from now on and brush/comb pup regularly so mats don't form.

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    Just as with hairdressers, a groomer may be talented and experienced but not the best match for every dog. “In the UK, dog grooming isn’t regulated, so some groomers may be qualified, and others not,” she says. “But that doesn’t mean an unqualified groomer isn’t amazing at their job.”

    #23

    When You Get Skunked & Have To Go To The Groomers 3 Times In One Month, But On The Third Time You Parent Asks The Groomer If They Have Time For A Haircut

    When You Get Skunked & Have To Go To The Groomers 3 Times In One Month, But On The Third Time You Parent Asks The Groomer If They Have Time For A Haircut

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    #25

    "Sister: I'll Save So Much Money If I Cut The Dogs Hair Myself ... " She Is No Longer Allowed Near The Dog

    "Sister: I'll Save So Much Money If I Cut The Dogs Hair Myself ... " She Is No Longer Allowed Near The Dog

    tototl Report

    There are some clear red flags to watch for after a grooming session. If your pet’s coat is still matted, dirty, or smells bad, or if you notice clipper marks and uneven cuts, it may indicate poor grooming.

    “If your dog is particularly difficult to groom, some professionals may prefer shorter sessions for safety. But this should be discussed with you,” Godding says.

    #26

    Labradoodle With A Lion Haircut. Multiple 911 Calls Ensued Concerning The "Mini Lion"

    Labradoodle With A Lion Haircut. Multiple 911 Calls Ensued Concerning The "Mini Lion"

    summerdaze17 Report

    For Godding, one of the most important things owners can do is stick to a consistent grooming routine tailored to their dog’s specific needs. “Your groomer should advise on the best schedule based on your dog’s coat type,” she explains. “I usually see long-coated dogs every six weeks, but some can go up to eight, while others may need visits every four.”

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    #29

    This Is Coco. Banned From Three Groomers For Aggression. He Is Now Under House Arrest (I Have To Shave Him Myself.)

    This Is Coco. Banned From Three Groomers For Aggression. He Is Now Under House Arrest (I Have To Shave Him Myself.)

    prettyfacebasketcase Report

    #30

    Friend’s Cat Got A Haircut. She Seems Very Pleased

    Friend’s Cat Got A Haircut. She Seems Very Pleased

    lucky_Lola Report

    #31

    Can't Tell If I Need To Get The Manager Or Put On Some My Chemical Romance

    Can't Tell If I Need To Get The Manager Or Put On Some My Chemical Romance

    kedakeda Report

    And don’t ignore your groomer’s advice on timing. “Most groomers will charge extra if your dog is overdue. Plus, letting your dog’s coat get matted isn’t just unkind—it’s painful. Knots and mats pull on their skin, which can lead to sores, skin issues, and eventually make them fearful of grooming because they associate it with pain,” Godding says.

    “So when buying a dog, speak to a local groomer to get an idea of the costs and how often they’ll need grooming,” she concludes. “It’s a major commitment and an essential part of your dog’s life.”

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    #32

    Vet Said She Needed To Take A Little Off To Get Rid Of A Belly Mat.... Dropped Off A Mainecoon And Picked Up A Shaved Weasel

    Vet Said She Needed To Take A Little Off To Get Rid Of A Belly Mat.... Dropped Off A Mainecoon And Picked Up A Shaved Weasel

    stoptouchingmeelmo_ Report

    #33

    Cheddar’s Haircut

    Cheddar’s Haircut

    Petsmart finally opened up for grooming so I took cheddar to get a much needed cut from his groomer. A couple minutes later I get a call from her saying she couldn't do his cut because he bit her twice. Now I have to walk around with this dude looking crazy. I swear when i say i had tears in my eyes and stomach pains from laughing so hard. I couldn't even leave the parking lot for a good 10 minutes because I had to get myself together. I'm about to give this dude up for adoption. Lol

    yeahokaywhateverrrr Report

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    #34

    Just A Recent Groom

    Just A Recent Groom

    Negative-Ocelot-2263 Report

    #35

    Your Mom Cuts Your Hair Funny

    Your Mom Cuts Your Hair Funny

    MultiMom17 Report

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    Roni Stone
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Finally! A dog that knows their worth goes deeper than their fur style. Look at that happy pupper!

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    #36

    Dog Needed A Haircut, This Was The Only Option

    Dog Needed A Haircut, This Was The Only Option

    Ev1LLe Report

    #37

    I Don’t Think A Haircut Would Help Her Derpiness

    I Don’t Think A Haircut Would Help Her Derpiness

    namanama101 Report

    #38

    So /R/Aww Didnt Like How I Cut My Cats Hair

    So /R/Aww Didnt Like How I Cut My Cats Hair

    LymeMN Report

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    Bettye McKee
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My chinchilla Persian had to be shaved numerous times because of mats and widespread ringworm. His previous owner didn't take good care of him.

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    #40

    Give Me That Live Action Lion King

    Give Me That Live Action Lion King

    piso_mojado Report

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    LakotaWolf (she/her)
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Another "breed that should not be shaved" unless it was matted. Chow Chows have a double coat. Also, dogs have several methods of regulating their temperature, and their natural coat is a part of it. When you shave a dog like this, it suddenly loses the ability to regulate its body temperature naturally :(

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    #41

    My Parents Cat, Butters. They Have To Shave Her Butt Cuz Poop Gets In Her Hair

    My Parents Cat, Butters. They Have To Shave Her Butt Cuz Poop Gets In Her Hair

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    #42

    Groomer Gave Us Back The Wrong Dog

    Groomer Gave Us Back The Wrong Dog

    giantandthedood Report

    #45

    You’re Too Fuzzy For The Vet To Treat Your Abscess So She Gives You A Reverse Mohawk With Eyebrows

    You’re Too Fuzzy For The Vet To Treat Your Abscess So She Gives You A Reverse Mohawk With Eyebrows

    Mumbawobz Report

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    Tabitha
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I had a cat who got divebombed by a psychotic mockingbird while sitting under a tree. I didn’t even know he was injured until he started to act all woozy. That’s when I felt the lump under his fur. Took him to the vet, who drained the abscess, cleaned it all up, and gave me a prescription for antibiotics. But to drain the abscess, he had to shave the top of the cat’s head. Poor little guy had a reverse Mohawk, like a guy who’s gone bald down the middle of his head, for months until it all grew back in. Poor little guy. RIP Bumper, you were a wonderful companion and I miss you a lot!

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    #46

    How Do You Like This Haircut? Who Can Guess What Breed?

    How Do You Like This Haircut? Who Can Guess What Breed?

    vio_light Report

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    Daya Meyer
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Just... no. Can we Talk about the concept of fur? It really can create a good climate for the animal. And such tiny dogs need their fur for warmth and net getting sunburned.

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    #47

    What Is Your Funniest/Worst Groom, I'll Go First

    What Is Your Funniest/Worst Groom, I'll Go First

    karategojo Report

    #48

    Is This A Horrible Haircut?

    Is This A Horrible Haircut?

    AP__ Report

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    LakotaWolf (she/her)
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Goldens shouldn't be shaved unless they're matted :( They're a double-coated dog. They don't need to be shaved.

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    #50

    The Groomer Closed But He Needed A Haircut..... Jeff I’m So Sorry

    The Groomer Closed But He Needed A Haircut..... Jeff I’m So Sorry

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    Auntriarch
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I must have been desensitized by the other pictures, this one isn't so bad

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    #52

    I Will Never Take My Cat For A Haircut Again! The Hairdresser Actually Said His Face Looks Like Pizza

    I Will Never Take My Cat For A Haircut Again! The Hairdresser Actually Said His Face Looks Like Pizza

    Alternative_Crazy310 Report

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    LakotaWolf (she/her)
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Munchkins make me sad :( They can't jump like a normal cat and they have health issues. I'm not sure why we think deformed legs look "cute" on an animal :( Munchkin cats literally have achondroplasia (dwarfism) which leads to osteoarthritis, lordosis (abnormal curvature of the spine) and pectus excavatum (literally "caved-in chest"), all of which are also common in humans with achondroplasia. Please don't buy/adopt cats with severe health issues due to "cute" genetic mutations (e.g., Munchkins, Scottish Folds, and every brachycephalic breed.)

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    #53

    My Cat Got A Haircut, Not Happy

    My Cat Got A Haircut, Not Happy

    reddit.com Report

    #54

    My Cat Zig Is Not Happy With His New Haircut

    My Cat Zig Is Not Happy With His New Haircut

    theycallmedumpling Report

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    #55

    “I Just Want A Trim And A Teddy Bear Face”

    “I Just Want A Trim And A Teddy Bear Face”

    317chsadface Report

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    #56

    I Work At A Pet Groomers. One Of Our Customers Said I Could Give His Dog Any Haircut I Wanted. Results

    I Work At A Pet Groomers. One Of Our Customers Said I Could Give His Dog Any Haircut I Wanted. Results

    laureeen Report

    #57

    Cool New Haircut

    Cool New Haircut

    messyjessy82 Report

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    Auntriarch
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Poor thing looks so embarrassed about his bum looking like something from the chiller cabinet

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    #58

    My Sister Shaves Her Cat In The Summer And Now He Looks As Dumb As He Is

    My Sister Shaves Her Cat In The Summer And Now He Looks As Dumb As He Is

    alien_gelato Report

    #59

    My Long Haired Cat Had Matted Fur, So I Took The Shears To Him. There’s A Reason I Don’t Get Paid To Do This. He Wasn’t Very Happy

    My Long Haired Cat Had Matted Fur, So I Took The Shears To Him. There’s A Reason I Don’t Get Paid To Do This. He Wasn’t Very Happy

    mystadobalina Report

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    Madam Puddyfoot
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Please don't use scissors to cut out matts: You can get a cheap pair of clippers at the store or online. I have had go suture up many animals who got cut by well-meaning owners.

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    #60

    I Was Told This Would Fit Here

    I Was Told This Would Fit Here

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    Madam Puddyfoot
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It is a living creature, not a stuffed animal or canvas to paint. This makes me furious.

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    #61

    Proud Of This Horrible Haircut

    Proud Of This Horrible Haircut

    baizybub Report

    #62

    My First Skirt. I Know It’s Not What You First Think Of When You Think Skirt, But That’s How The Mom Likes Her

    My First Skirt. I Know It’s Not What You First Think Of When You Think Skirt, But That’s How The Mom Likes Her

    MrsFutius Report

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    #63

    Messy Hair Don't Care

    Messy Hair Don't Care

    willow55355 Report

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    #65

    Get A Haircut They Said, It’ll Look Good They Said

    Get A Haircut They Said, It’ll Look Good They Said

    pohpi Report

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    #66

    He Wasn't Amused Of The New Haircut

    He Wasn't Amused Of The New Haircut

    tuananhvip99hn Report

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    #68

    I Don't Think He Likes His Haircut

    I Don't Think He Likes His Haircut

    Status-Ad-83 Report

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    LakotaWolf (she/her)
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My fellow Pandas, if you adopt/get a longhaired catto or doggo, PLEASE train/teach it to accept being brushed/combed regularly. Treats and short brushing sessions will help until your pet is more desensitized to being brushed. Longhaired cats and dogs are prone to matting (especially in the groin and "armpit" area) and it makes them uncomfortable, itchy, and can lead to health issues. A longhaired animal does not "need" to be shaved (as they can naturally regulate their body temperature normally, and shaving removes their ability to do this.) If your catto or pupper refuses regular brushing or is aggressive, consider asking your vet for a sedative prescription/seeing if your vet offers grooming services. It is so much better to brush out your longhaired pet than to regularly shave your longhaired pet.

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    #69

    Ahh, This Isn't What We Asked For... Looks Like I'll Be Wearing Hoodies Non-Stop For The Next Few Weeks

    Ahh, This Isn't What We Asked For... Looks Like I'll Be Wearing Hoodies Non-Stop For The Next Few Weeks

    oodles.of.archie Report

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    LakotaWolf (she/her)
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Dog looks fine. Dog doesn't need to "wear hoodies" just because the owner feels embarrassed. Dogs don't feel shame about their appearances XD

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