PetSmart Shaves Golden Retriever, Sparks Grooming Controversy

A TikTok video that amassed over 900,000 views shows a golden retriever named Lacy returned from a PetSmart grooming visit almost entirely shaved, with only the head and tail left untouched. The owner described the result as a shocking mistake and suggested it could warrant police involvement.

Veterinary experts, including Dr. Jerry Klein of the American Kennel Club, warned that shaving a double‑coated breed like the golden retriever can lead to heat‑stroke risk, improper hair regrowth, and long‑term coat damage. The AKC reiterated its guidelines against shaving double‑coated dogs and advised regular grooming to prevent matting instead of full shaves.