GROOMING

Grooming is an important part of your companion's routine health regimen.  Here are some tips on how to keep your pets looking and feeling their best.

            Many pets love to be brushed.  Regular brushing of your cat or dog helps to remove dead hair and dirt, prevent mats from forming and stimulates blood flow to the skin which gives your pet a shinier coat.  There are a variety of brushes, combs and other grooming tools available on the market.  Speak to a groomer or your pet store's customer service representative regarding which type of grooming tools are best for your pet's particular hair.  Some breeds of cats and dogs require special grooming.  Speak to your veterinarian to find out what is best for your companion's breed. 

Bathing needs depend upon the breed and lifestyle of your pet.  Your pet's bathing requirements will be based on his or her hair type, activity level and skin condition, as well as upon your personal preferences.  Cats are especially good groomers and rarely, if ever, need bathing.  Dogs, on the other hand, require more care.  Many dogs can be bathed every couple of months or so, although specific breeds will need to be bathed more often.  In order to prevent injuries when bathing your pet, be sure to place them upon a non-slip surface and avoid getting soap into their eyes or water into their ears. 

            Clipping you pet's nails is an important part of regular grooming.  Keeping your pet's nails short helps to save your floors and furniture and drastically reduces the occurrence of broken and ingrown nails.  If you are unsure how to proceed, ask your veterinarian to demonstrate proper clipping technique.  Many animals dislike having their feet touched.  If this is the case with your companion, begin by touching the feet when the animal is in a relaxed state.  Once your pet becomes comfortable with having their toes handle, you can begin by cutting just one or two nails at a time.  Be very careful not to cut too far back on the nail, which will cause pain and make the situation a negative experience.  Maintaining a regular schedule of nail trimming will allow your pet to become more comfortable with the experience over time.

            Cats generally only require ear cleaning when their ears become infected.  If you notice that your feline friend has dirty, itchy or smelly ears, call your veterinarian for an appointment so that they may determine what is causing the infection and the best method of treatment.  Dogs, on the other hand, may require regular cleaning, especially if they have floppy ears, skin issues or allergies.  If the ears seem red, smelly, inflamed or painful, contact your veterinarian for an appointment.  If your dog's ears just look dirty, use an approved otic cleanser and gently wipe out the insides of the ears.  Be aware that dogs' ear canals make a 90 degree turn and that the ear drum is located far into the ear canal past the turn.  This means that you cannot damage the ear drum while you are gently cleaning his or her ears.  If you have any questions or would like a demonstration, contact you companion's doctor for advisement. 

            If your pet exhibits excessive itching or has red or flaky skin, contact your veterinary hospital for an appointment.  Both cats and dogs are susceptible to allergies, infections and external parasites.  Your veterinarian will be able to determine the best course of action to make your friend comfortable again.  If your pet goes outside, make sure to use a preventative medication to protect against flea and ticks.