It may not be discussed as such, but one of the most important things you can do for your pet, as a pet owner, is to make sure they are properly groomed. Sandy Brown from Mobile Pet Grooming in Miami states that, “Grooming your pet regularly will help you catch potential diseases or conditions that might impact its health”. Catching these health issues early will ensure that your pet will get the proper care it needs to remain healthy, and in your life, as a loving companion for many years to come.
One issue that many pet owners face is that their furry friend doesn’t enjoy the grooming process and it becomes a real struggle to get it done. Some folks send their pet to a professional groomer as a result, but that doesn’t need to be the case. With some early training, grooming can be easier for both you and your four-legged friend.
How Do People Get Pets to Be Okay with Grooming?
Like any skill, grooming your pet successfully takes lots of patience and practice. It’s best to start the grooming process with your dog or cat when they are young. Many breeders will start getting their litters used to grooming as soon as they reach an appropriate age. Indoctrinating a pet at this age makes it much easier for both parties in the future.
It also assists in making sure that the pet can be still during the clipping of their nails and ear cleanings.
This is vital because any movement by the pet during these particular grooming tasks could lead to the dog or cat getting injured.
When you’ve gotten to the point where your pet is okay with grooming, you’ll notice that it is an excellent way to further your bond with your furry companion. Even if you are someone who decides to send their pet to a professional groomer, there are still benefits to any of the grooming that you do decide to do at home. Below are just a few of the grooming habits you can do at home and what perks they provide to your pet.
Brushing Your Pet’s Fur
There may be the misconception that brushing is just about making sure your cat or dog continues to look its best. While a brushed pet certainly does look nice, there are many other benefits to regularly brushing your pet. When you brush your furry friend, you are removing things like dandruff and dead hair.
You are also stimulating the natural oils in the animal’s skin, allowing them to give the fur a shiny, healthy look.
With cats, you are removing any excess hair that might lead to them coughing up those dreaded hairballs you always seem to end up stepping in. It may also allow you to take a look at your pet’s skin for any ticks or other abnormalities.
Check Your Pet’s Ears
Inspecting the ears of your pet will allow you to spot anything that might impact its health. Signs of mites, as well as infections and parasites, can be caught early with an ear inspection. Be sure to note if there is a funny smell coming from your pet’s ears.
Inspect Your Pet’s Eyes
By looking at your pet’s eyes, you’ll be able to see if they are watery or seem irritated. You’ll also be able to keep the hair around their eyes neatly trimmed so they don’t get infected.
Brush Your Pet’s Teeth
Your dog’s breath will probably never be minty fresh, but the regular brushing of its teeth will make things better. It will also help them avoid tooth decay and gum disease. Your veterinarian may be able to recommend a toothpaste for your dog’s breed.
Get Your Pet on a Bathing Schedule
In the case of bathing, you want to make sure that you are not doing it too often. This could lead to the animal developing dry skin, as well as other irritating skin conditions. Be sure to check in with your veterinarian on the appropriate bathing schedule for your pet.
Keep Your Pet’s Nails Trimmed
If your pet doesn’t have its nail length under control, it could lead to injuries. Regular trimming is an important part of pet grooming and has the benefit of making sure that their nails don’t get caught up in carpets and can help lessen the pain of certain conditions in older dogs.
