Hot weather requires different grooming techniques to keep your furry friend’s coat in tip-top shape and to help them stay comfortable. Here are the dos and don’ts of grooming your pet during the summer.
Do brush and bathe your pet as usual
Although your furry friend has likely shed their winter coat by now, regular brushing and bathing is still a must, to help remove dead hair and dry skin. Brushing also disperses your pet’s natural skin oils, which further protects them from the harsh sun. Without routine brushing, dead hair will accumulate and form mats, tightening the hair coat down to the skin and obstructing airflow. To keep your fluffy pal cool and comfortable, brush regularly, and bathe as needed.
Don’t shave your thick-coated pet
Shaving thick-coated pets with plush double coats in the summer seems logical to offer cooling relief, but your pet’s coat is designed to protect them from the heat and harmful UV rays. Never shave double-coated breeds, such as Siberian Huskies or collies, and always check first with our veterinarian before shaving your pet. If you shave too close to the skin, you put your furry pal at risk for sunburn, and cats who are not protected from UV rays are more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma. Simply brushing your thick-coated pet frequently to remove dead hair is best, to keep them cool.
Do clean your pet’s ears after swimming
Your pooch may like to cool off in your pool all summer long, but keep a close eye on their ears. Floppy ears trap water, and the warm, moist environment is a breeding ground for yeast and bacteria, which can lead to painful ear infections. After each swimming session, clean your pet’s ears with a veterinary-approved ear cleanser that contains a drying agent.
Did you forget about drying out your dog’s ears after a swim? Contact us for help with your pup’s ear infection caused by too much summer fun.