Pads, you mean under the paws? The hair under pads can become matted and sometimes groomers have to shave them off otherwise it would be really uncomfortable for the dog to walk with matted hair under the pads. So that's not cruel to shave (clip) hair off from the pads. You should have asked the groomer why she did that. I am sorry that Chloe had a terrible experience with the groomer.
I know it is hard to find a decent groomer. Visit
Groomers BBS or
Pet Owner Questions Category maybe the groomers there can help you to find a good groomer in your area. Hope this helps.
I groom my dogs & the change behavior in my dogs are Beau & Pearl. When they know they are going to be bathed & groomed, they run away.
Blue being so good boy, he stays put and cooperates with me whatever I want to do with him.
Gotta love my Yorkie!