Grooming The Non-Shedding Dog

Is a Large Part of Responsible Pet Ownership

One important aspect of responsible pet ownership is regular grooming. Ongoing care of your dog’s coat, skin, nails and ears are essential to your dog’s health.

“Grooming is about more than appearance and making your pet nice to be near. Weekly maintenance is essential to keeping your pet’s skin and coat healthy and insect-free,” says Val Penstone, director of grooming for Best Friends Pet Care. “In addition grooming time can also be quality time that strengthens the bond between you and your pet.”

A regular grooming routine should include the following: Buy Grooming Supplies

• Look for Signs of Irritation Due to Parasites . In several areas of the country, fleas and ticks have become a year-round problem. If you stop your flea/tick prevention program as winter approaches, still checking your dog for fleas or ticks. If the weather is extremely mild they can still be around. As spring and the warmer weather starts again be sure to start your dogs flea and tick prevention program.
  

• Keep Allergies Under Control with Regular Shampooing. Dogs are four-legged dust mops that pick up anything floating around in the environment. Shampooing removes mold spores, dust, dirt and dander. A medicated or organic pet shampoo is helpful if you suspect skin problems or parasites. Follow with a conditioning rinse. Towel dry thoroughly, then separate the hair by brushing and combing to speed drying down to the skin. If you use a standard home hair dryer, BE AWARE that it is very easy to burn your pet. Hold it well away from the skin and use a cool setting.

• Keep Nails the Proper Length. Use only a proper nail clipping tool specifically made for your pet, and take off a small amount at a time. Stay well away from the “quick”, the point at which there is blood flow. Be prepared with a styptic product in case you do clip into the blood vessel. If your pet has dark nails, the quick is difficult to see and you may want a professional do this chore for you.

• Check Ears for Problems. Weekly cleaning, with a solution made for ear care is a good year-round preventative measure. Massaging the solution into the ear softens wax and dirt, floating it to the exterior ear, where you can wipe it gently away with cotton.

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