Springtime often means it is shedding season for many breeds of dogs and cats; however, maintaining your pet’s coat year round is very important. Professional grooming is a great option for many owners, but in between trips to your groomer, here are a few at home grooming tips for your four legged friend:
1. Brush the coat on a regular basis to remove loose hair and prevent mats from forming. Be patient with your pet, especially if they are not used to being groomed. Making this a positive experience will make future grooming tasks easier.
2. Brushing your pet is a great time to look for skin problems, cuts, or lesions. Always consult your veterinarian before applying any medications to the skin, as some are toxic if consumed.
3. Check your pet’s ears for debris and/or odor that may indicate infection or parasites.
4. Brush teeth frequently to avoid gingivitis and dental disease. Even cats can have their teeth brushed. Check for broken or missing teeth and speak to your veterinarian if you suspect any problems.
5. When bathing a pet at home, use only shampoo made for pets since human shampoos can make your pet sick. Avoid getting soap into your pet’s eyes and ears. Make sure to thoroughly rinse your pet to avoid consumption of the shampoo as they lick their coat dry.
6. After bathing, thoroughly dry fur and ears. Ears may be dried using cotton balls on the tip of your finger. Never insert cotton swabs into the ear canal as they can damage the inner ear.
7. Toe nails should be trimmed as needed and may be performed by a groomer or your veterinarian.
8. If your pet does not tolerate grooming well, it is best to work in short increments in order to prevent stress to you and/or your pet.
9. Reward your pet for positive grooming behavior. Remember to have fun! Grooming can be a great time to bond with your pet and give them some added affection.
10. Never use scissors to cut or trim your pet’s fur because injuries can result; this includes trimming hair away from eyes, ears, and paws. If your pet has matted fur that you are unable to brush out, seek professional assistance. Removal of matted fur may reveal complications with the skin underneath and the area should always be checked for potential problems after the mat is removed.
Ask us at Animal Central for more information or demonstrations on proper home grooming techniques or visit: http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/pet-grooming-and-homekeeping-tips
Also, our groomer, Kathy, would be happy to speak with you about your pet’s grooming needs or schedule a groom with her Monday – Friday by calling (303) 469-7387!
Dr. George Stroberg, DVM and Staff
