Hi
My Westies have always been clippered. I was never given the option to have them hand stripped. Having seen the difference in the texture of the coats I would really like them to be stripped instead. My question is.... how long will it take for the coat to come through so it can be hand stripped? is it hard to learn? and would a novice be able to do it ie, myself. Hope someone can help.
Thanks
Jo

Hi Jo
Sorry I can't help, but hope someone replies as I'd be interested too!!!!
Regards
Wendy

I'm learning how to handstrip a parson next week, I've never done any hand stripping before but have been told it isn't that hard so I should cope  

Not sure on texture of coat but there are terrier people who will be able to help

Handstripping isn't difficult but is just another skill to learn.  Usually easier if shown rather than described.
Unskilled groomers clip because they think that takes less time and so they think that they can make more money.

I have recovered many coats ruined by clipping.  It usually takes between 9-14 months.  All coats can be improved, but if the Westie has been bred with an incorrect soft coat, then you can produce what isn't there!

Hi Val
Hope Guest has seen the replies. Thanks!! I didn't realise it took that long to get the coat back. What happens in between then? do you just strip a small amount off every few weeks or so. I too would like mine hand stripped.
Regards
Wendy

I agree with Val - depending on the coat type a clipped coat can be stripped once the coat has grown out but it does take a while to achieve this. Due to skin allergies I decided to strip my Westie's coat even though it had always been clipped. As the coat was growing out I kept pulling a few of the longest hairs out every couple of weeks or so and after approximately 12 months the change in his coat was very noticable and his skin improved 80%. I was lucky as he had the correct coat type and his coat is very easy to strip. Good luck is getting a groomer to take on the job or are you planning to do it yourself?

Not sure if the groomer I use hand strips. I would like to have a try myself though. I have seen videos advertised, though I suppose it is best to be shown how to do it by the expert, rather than watching it on a video. Mine has a good thick coat by the way.
Regards
Wendy

Yes, why not have a go yourself. You could always contact The Westhighland White Terrier Breed Club of England - they may know of a breeder who would be willing to show you how to hand strip. Which part of the Country do you live Wendy?

Hi
I live in E.Yorkshire.

Wendy

Too far from me - I would have shown you how to hand strip.

Which part of the country are you???

Wendy - I've just sent you a PM ...

Blue will be back from her hols soon.  Maybe she could suggest a breeder in your area who will help you get on the right track?!

Thanks Val.

Val - Blue arrived home yesterday. She's tired from the journey but I'm sure she'll be back as soon as she's recovered - lol.

Hi
Are you anywhere near Harrowgate, if so Iknow of a reputable breeder, Blue and Fourpaws will also probably know who I mean.

No quite a distance from there I'm afraid.

Hi, I see you know of someone near Harrogate who hand strips (westies?). Do they teach others how do do it? Could you give me their details?

Thanks

Hi Wendy ,

I will send you a PM.  Look above for the Message box.

I know a couple of people in your area that do grooming. You could ask them if they would either do some handstripping for you and teach you how to do it.  Most will charge by the hour but if you can get the hang of it then you will recoup any expense back.

I think generally a full year would be needed to sort a clipped coat. Taking a little out at a time every week or so.

Thanks for your replies and help.
Regards
Wendy