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Updated: Jun 28, 2026
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 9, 2011
Recovery of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus species from pet-grooming salons
Alexandra P Gould1,2, Kimberly S Coyner1, Ann M Trimmer2
1Dermatology Clinic for Animals, 8300 Quinault Drive NE, Suite A, Lacey, WA, 98516, USA.
Background:
Meticillin-resistant (MR) staphylococcal species have been cultured from veterinary hospital environments and veterinary instruments. Pet-grooming salon environments and grooming tools may pose a risk for dissemination of MR staphylococcal bacteria into the pet population.
Objective:
The objectives of this study were to investigate the frequency of MR staphylococcal colonization of pet-grooming salons and to collect information regarding cleaning procedures in grooming salons.
Methods And Materials:
A nonrandomized, observational study was performed in 2018. Locations inside 19 grooming salons near Tacoma, WA, USA, were sampled and selectively cultured for MR, coagulase-positive staphylococci. Sampled sites included clipper blades and handles, leashes, rims of bathtub drains, insides of shampoo caps, and bathtub spray hoses or faucet handles. Grooming salons were asked to complete surveys regarding their cleaning practices.
Results:
Meticillin-resistant coagulase-positive staphylococci were isolated from 12 of 19 grooming salons and 25 of 112 total samples. Meticillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius, S. aureus and S. schleiferi were isolated from multiple salons, most commonly from electric clipper blades, clipper handles and grooming leashes. No statistically significant correlations were identified between cleaning practices and the isolation of MR coagulase-positive staphylococci.
Conclusions And Clinical Importance:
Clipper blades, clipper handles and leashes are potential fomites for MR staphylococci in a grooming salon; increased disinfection practices for these items are indicated. A prospective, controlled, large-scale study is warranted to examine the effect of grooming salon hygiene practices on the isolation of MR staphylococci in salons.
Insights
Meticillin-resistant staphylococci were found in 12 of 19 pet grooming salons, particularly on clipper blades and leashes. Enhanced disinfection of grooming tools is recommended to prevent MR staphylococci spread.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Meticillin-resistant (MR) staphylococci are found in veterinary settings.
- Pet grooming salons may contribute to the spread of MR staphylococci to pets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of MR staphylococcal colonization in pet grooming salons.
- To gather data on cleaning protocols used in these salons.
Main Methods:
- An observational study in 2018 involving 19 grooming salons near Tacoma, WA.
- Sampling of surfaces including clipper blades, handles, leashes, and drains.
- Surveys on salon cleaning practices were administered.
Main Results:
- MR staphylococci were isolated from 12 of 19 salons (63%) and 25 of 112 samples (22%).
- Commonly isolated species included MR *S. pseudintermedius*, *S. aureus*, and *S. schleiferi*.
- Isolation was most frequent on clipper blades, handles, and leashes; no link to cleaning practices was found.
Conclusions:
- Clipper blades, handles, and leashes act as fomites for MR staphylococci in salons.
- Increased disinfection of these items is crucial.
- Further large-scale studies are needed to assess hygiene practices' impact.
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