When it comes to keeping your dog healthy and happy, it is vital to regularly groom them to sustain high levels of cleanliness and keep them looking their best. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have suggested four important dog grooming practices for you to consider. Enjoy!
1. Monthly Nail Trims
Trimming your dog’s nails is an essential part of the dog grooming process, as it helps them to stay healthy and happy. If your dog’s nails are left untreated over time, then they can become overgrown and start to crack and break, which can cause your pet some discomfort. Many older dogs suffer from arthritis and in some of cases, this can be caused by their nails forcing their toe bones into abnormal positions. It is advised to trim your pet’s nails at least once or twice a month. When trimming your dog’s nails, it is also important to remember that cutting claws too short can harm blood vessels and veins that are nearby. When clipping your dog’s claws, only trim off the tip, making sure you are being always as careful and as gentle as possible. Remember, less is more! However, if you are in any doubt as to what to do, first consult your vet or a dog groomer.
2. Regular Check-Ups
As a responsible dog owner, it is vital that you perform regular check-ups for your pet’s eyes, ears, and teeth. If you are examining your pet’s eyes, check for soreness, greyness, or any weeping that may suggest health issues such as glaucoma, a scratched cornea, trapped grass seed, or even a dry eye. If you are cleaning out your dog’s ear using a cotton ball, try examining the area for any bad odours, waxy build-up, or inflammation. When it comes to your dog’s oral hygiene, just like humans, dogs also benefit from having their teeth brushed regularly. As soon as brushing becomes a part of your dog’s daily routine they will hopefully start to expect and enjoy it. If you have a healthy puppy, then they benefit from having their teeth cleaned three days a week.
3. Brushes and Breeds
Dogs come in a variety of different breeds, and many have different types of coats. Before you begin grooming your dog, research their breed and ensure you are using the correct brush for their specific type of fur. Regularly brushing your dog can reduce shedding, removes matted hair, increases their body’s production of natural oils and also encourages bonding between you and your dog, Another benefit of brushing your dog is that it helps you to closely inspect their skin and fur for any anomalies like bumps or blemishes.
4. Inspect for Ticks and Fleas
During a thorough dog grooming session, it is essential to check your dog’s coat for any ticks and fleas. It is no secret, that flea and tick infestations can affect the health of your pet. By regularly checking your pet’s coat for fleas and ticks, you can help them avoid skin rashes, skin infections, and possible ailments like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. It also helps you maintain an hygienic home environment. Your vet can advise on suitable applications to suppress infestations.
Closing thoughts We hope you found this dog grooming article helpful. If your canine companion needs grooming but you would prefer a professional dog grooming service, then please call our friendly team today. We ensure a calm and safe environment for your pet and have many years of experience cutting and