More than Good Looks: The Importance of Regular Pet Grooming
Pet grooming is about so much more than having a clean pet. Although our pets surely enjoy the extra snuggles they receive when they look and smell their best, regular brushing, bathing, and nail trims can also have a positive impact on their health and wellness.
Skin and Fur
Dogs and cats require regular brushing to remove debris and loose hairs, stimulate blood flow to the skin, and distribute oils evenly throughout the coat. Regular brushing keeps your pet’s fur free of tangles and mats, which could pull, tear, or restrict airflow to the skin. Brushing also cuts down on hairballs in cats.
Brushing and bathing give you or your groomer the chance to observe any issues with the skin related to allergies, disease or injury, or parasites, such as fleas or ticks.
Eyes and Ears
Check your pet’s ears weekly as part of your regular grooming routine by flipping them up and taking a peek inside. Red, inflamed ears; a foul odor; or excess wax or other debris indicate an infection that will need to be treated by your veterinarian.
Your pet’s eyes should appear shiny, clear, and moist. Let us know if you observe redness or irritation, or a cloudy appearance to the eye.
Teeth and Nails
Keeping your pet’s nails trimmed is an important part of pet grooming. Overgrown nails are not only uncomfortable, but they can also become ingrown and infected. Longer nails can contribute to arthritis of the knees and hips in older dogs.
It may not sound like the most pleasant of tasks, but brushing your pet’s teeth is one of the best ways to protect him or her from dental disease, which affects up to 85% of pets by age 3. Daily brushing is best. If that isn’t possible, aim for at least twice per week. While you’re at it, be sure to inspect inside the mouth for problems like red or bleeding gums, foul breath, or lumps and bumps.
Pet Grooming at Hallsville Veterinary Hospital
We’re proud to offer professional grooming services for both dogs and cats at Hallsville Veterinary Hospital, including:
- Bathing
- Hair trims
- Nail trims
- Dematting
- Anal gland expression
- Ear cleaning
Your pet’s grooming schedule will depend on his or her breed, coat length, and lifestyle. We can help you put together a schedule that works for you and your pet.
If you haven’t had your pet groomed in some time, there’s no time like the present! Give us a call to set up an appointment. We look forward to seeing you and your pet!