Attributed to Dr Liz Walker, CEO, RSPCA Victoria;
“RSPCA Victoria welcomes today’s announcement by the Premier, Hon. Daniel Andrews, that contactless animal grooming will be allowed to resume from 28 September 2020 in Metropolitan Melbourne.
“RSPCA Victoria alongside other animal welfare agencies and industry, has been advocating for this change to restrictions based on animal welfare grounds. We thank the Victorian Government for listening to feedback from the animal welfare community.
“RSPCA Victoria understands that many pet owners will be relieved to know they can again access grooming services for domestic animals. Grooming is an essential form of care for some breeds such as double coated and long-haired animals, in order to prevent adverse welfare outcomes such as matting which can cut off blood supply to extremities and cause significant skin conditions.
“Now that we are in the spring season, grooming becomes ever more important as animals go through their spring moult, grass seed prevalence increases, flea activity increases, and seasonal allergies are aggravated.
“We will work through what this announcement means for our operations and advise our grooming customers next week.
“In the interim RSPCA Victoria’s website provides grooming tips and guidance; however, anyone with concerns should contact their veterinarian for advice.”
