Pet Grooming: Animals, just like humans, need regular bathing and hygiene in order to stay healthy. That said, if you can’t remember the last time your pet got a nice bath, or you ran a brush through their coat, they’re probably due for some hygienic TLC! Candace Johnson, owner of Mobile Pet Grooming in Tucson Arizona offers valuable insight into why pet grooming is essential for a good healthy pet.
Skin & Coat Health To Keep Your Pet Healthy
Pets that smell great are obviously a plus. But that’s not the only benefit that stems from having a well-washed animal. In fact, washing your pet regularly can help them stay safe from all sorts of outdoor pollutants. They might pick up on their fur, including dust, fleas, ticks, and even pollen!
Those potential pollutants can cause serious issues for your pet, including itching, hair loss, skin dermatitis, and even other secondary skin infections. Washing your pet regularly, and brushing them every day can help pull knots out of their fur and keep them safe and healthy.
Bathing Techniques To Keep Your Pet Healthy
You’ll want to use a mild shampoo that is formulated for your specific pet, whether they’re a cat, dog, or something else completely! Using lukewarm water, work the shampoo into your pet’s coat with a soft cloth, or even your hands. Take extra care not to get the shampoo in their eyes, and to scrub their undercarriage, their tail, and the top of their paws!
Once the shampoo has been worked into their coat, rinse your pet thoroughly with lukewarm water. You’ll want to use a soft towel to dry them off. Often times dogs enjoy the drying off process, and it can make for a nice reward after enduring a long bath. Just make sure you’re drying the inside of their ears to prevent ear infections!
For pets with long hair, it’s a good idea to brush them when they’re not completely dry. And, once they are dry, give them another quick run with the brush to get rid of any stray hairs that might be clinging on.
At this time, it’s also a good idea to apply your pet’s monthly flea treatment! You’ll also want to follow up with at least weekly brushing to keep your pet’s coat knot-free
Keeping Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy
Over time, your pet’s teeth build up tartar, periodontal disease, and gingivitis, which can lead to serious dental problems, including abscesses, tooth loss, or even damage to other bodily organs.
To prevent this, make sure your pet is receiving regular professional teeth cleanings at least once a year. And, in between these visits, you can brush your pet’s teeth at home everyday! All you’ll need is a properly sized toothbrush, a toothpaste specifically for pets, and a good bit of patience!
Keeping Your Pet’s Nails Healthy
Overgrown nails are painful for humans, and the same is true for animals, if not more so.
There are several inflictions that can come from overgrown nails, including breaking off to cause pain and bleeding, growth into the paw’s pads which can cause infection, and even contributes to arthritis.
Nails that are too long can also catch and snag on fabric, which can be painful and cause damage to your home! In order to prevent this, make sure your pet’s nails are trimmed properly.
Most of the time, pets are less than enthusiastic about having their nails clipped. Therefore, if you’re planning on doing this yourself, make sure you do so when your pet is relaxed or even worn-out after play.
Conclusion
Pets that are well cared for are happy pets, and keeping your pet well groomed is a great way to ensure that they stay happy and healthy for many years to come!