The Importance of Grooming Pets

Most pets groom themselves enough so their human counterparts do not need to fuss too much about their hygiene. However, there are certain breeds that need a little extra help in looking and feeling their best. Dog and cat breeds with long hair, or no hair, need special attention.

How should you take care of long haired pet?

Long haired dog breeds like the Yorkie, Shih tzu, and Poodle, along with any mutts that may have a long-haired dog breed mixed in, are susceptible to matting and tangling. This can be exceptionally frustrating for pet owners and if handled improperly can be painful for the pet. The same goes for long haired cat breeds like the Persian.

Pets with long hair should be regularly groomed. AKC website cites that you should “groom once a month for regular coats” like short of single layer coats and more frequently for longer and double coats. Consistently brushing your pet can be a great way to help rid the build up of hair.

Are there any good ways to handle dead hair?

To deal with the buildup of dead hair, there are special grooming tools and products other than the run of the mill grooming tools that may be suitable for short haired pets. These are specially made to deal with the tangles and matting that may occur in pets with long hair. This makes it easier on pet owners who choose to groom their pets themselves. If you choose to groom your pets yourself then you should remember the tangle rule. If the tangle is too large to get out with a brush, you should never keep brushing in the same spot. This can cause skin irritation.

Should you take your pet to a groomer?

Taking your pet to a professional groomer may be in a pet mom or dad’s best interest. Sometimes leaving it to the pros is better. When dealing with sensitive areas, like around the paws, belly, or tail, professional groomers know all the tricks of the trade. They may be able to reach those areas better and your pet may be more relaxed. Although professional grooming may cost a little more than doing it yourself, it is crucial that your pet gets groomed one way or another.

What about pets with no hair?

An anomaly to the conundrum of grooming is pets with little or no hair. Pet breeds like Sphynx cats or Chinese Crested dogs are pets that do not grow hair at all or just on parts of their bodies. Vet Street cites that because of the pet’s lack of fur, these kinds of pets skin can get damaged much easier.

These little critters may not have hair, but they still need special grooming needs. Dry skin, sunburn, trying to keep them warm, and the higher probability of getting skin cancer are all hazards pet parents need to watch out for. Buying sweaters, lotion, and making sure that sun exposure is controlled may not be conventional grooming, but this is important if your pet falls under the category of hairless.

Regardless whether your pet has long, short, curly, straight, or no hair at all, grooming is essential. Helping out your furry- or not so furry friend- out is necessary to keeping them looking and feeling good.

How do you make sure your pet stays beautified? Leave a comment and let us know!