Real-Life Decision Making
As a pet groomer, you've learned a lot about animals. You can read
an animal's mood in the blink of an eye, tell if a dog will bite just
by looking at it and even pick out health problems when they arise.
A dog you are grooming seems lethargic and weak. When you get to trimming
the dog's ears, you realize this dog has an advanced case
of ear mites. Ear mites are tiny parasites that live in the animal's
ear, cause intense itching and leave a characteristic thick, dark residue.
It's a common problem for dogs, but thankfully, ear mites can be cured
by a medication that can be bought at specialty pet stores.
"Groomers often see dogs and cats with ear mites and could easily diagnose
the problem for the client and save them a trip to the vet's office,"
says Peter Moran, a groomer.
As a pet groomer, however, it's illegal to offer veterinary advice
to your clients. Even though you know a lot about animals, you're not
a veterinarian and the law says you shouldn't act like one. In this case,
however, you wonder if it wouldn't be silly not to relay the information
on to your client and get the problem looked after right away.
Your client will be returning to pick up her dog in a few minutes and you
have to make your decision. What will you do?