Grooming Your Pet

Grooming is so important and a big part of caring for you pet and keeping him/her healthy. Most animals need some type of grooming, cats and dogs need to be brushed regularly. Animals with long hair should be trimmed and maintained regularly because fur can become matted and cause serious health issues for your pet. Dirt and oil can also accumulate under mats and cause painful skin infections, and the mats themselves can be painful as they pull and stretch the skin underneath.

Animals also require regular bathing, especially dogs, to keep their skin and hair coat clean and healthy. How much you bath them depends on their lifestyle, breed and coat type. Also, always use a shampoo specifically formulated for your animal. Many human shampoos can be too harsh for their skin. If your pet has itchy, red, dry, flaky or oily skin, you should consult your veterinarian.

Pets also require regular nail trims. Long nails can become painful and interfere with your pet's ability to walk. Keeping nails short also helps you protect your floors and furniture from beaching scratched and your clothes from being snagged.

• Dogs
• Before You Clip
• Get your dog use to having his paws handled, my suggesting is to start when they are a puppy.
• Begin speaking softly as you massage each paw, gently separating the toes.
• Your pet may pull away. If this happens, repeat whatever it was your dog didn't like, but do it slowly and gently until he/she begins to accept it.
• When you think your pet is ready, only start with one or two nails.
• Have a treat ready for positive reinforcement.
• For dogs that are nervous or resistant to handling, try having someone assist you with holding your dog still, pet gently and reassure him/her.
• Dogs that are unruly or try to bite should be taken to a groomer or veterinarian for a nail trimming in order to prevent injury to both you and your dog.
• Cats
• Before You Clip
• Most cats hate being restrained so it's best to accustom them to being handled while they are kittens.
• Try the "less is best" approach first when it comes to restrain. Try clipping your cat's nails while he/she is napping or snuggling on your lap.
• Give treats for positive reinforcement.
• Have a friend or family member hold and pet your cat while you are trimming nails.
• If necessary you can wrap your kitty in a towel to prevent him/her from scratching you during nail trimming.
• Cats that are unruly or try to bite should be taken to a groomer or veterinarian for a nail trimming in order to prevent injury to both you and your dog.

• How to Clip Nails
• Use appropriate pet nail trimmer, these are available at any pet supply store.
• Hold the paw in your hand and locate the pinkish part of the nail. This is a blood vessel, often called the "quick", and should be avoided. The nail should be clipped slightly above this area.
• If you cannot see the pinkish part, just clip the very tip of the nail.
• Always have a clotting agent on hand in case you accidently cut below the quick and cause bleeding. This is usually in the form of a powder and is available in any pet store.
• Most pets should have their nails trimmed every 2 to 3 weeks. Some dogs that are frequently walked on paved areas will continuously wear down their nails and may need less frequent trimming.
• If you are unsure or scared of the above process, consult your veterinarian or groomer.