All too sadly,
This isn't too uncommon. I would never ever subject an animal to a heat dryer. Whatever it is, it doesn't sound like something too safe. I use a towel first, then I use the HighPower dryer being careful not to get in to dogs eyes or ears. I know that would be very uncomfortable. If it is a really small dog, then I just use a regular person hair dryer on cool setting. Then, I put them in their cage with a towel with a small fan attached to the cage. If they are shivering or something, then I turn the fan off. Not worth a pet getting the chills just to look pretty.
When I am grooming, I always think to myself, "How would I want my dog or cat treated if it was already frightened to be in a strange place with someone putting blades and scissors near its eyes??" I am very gentle and very re assuring to the animal. If they just insist on not wanting a part of their body shaved, then I don't put them through that stress. I send them home and tell the owner that it couldn't be done. Most of the time, they understand.