Dog Grooming

Dog Grooming and Pet Maintenance Tips
Proper grooming and maintenance is an important part of your pet's care and goes a long way to guaranteeing that your pet will live a happy, healthy life.

Caring for Your Pet's Coat
You should brush your pet thoroughly every day to keep the coat in good condition, prevent tangling, remove dirt, and keep skin clear of infection. Dogs should be bathed at least once every 60 days. Brush your dog carefully before each bath to remove any mats. Use only warm water and cover your dog's ears while in the tub.

Nail Trimming
Nails should be trimmed about once a month with a clipper designed specifically for either dogs or cats. Have your pet sit beside you, gently grasp one paw in your hand, and slowly pull it toward you. Trim the nail gradually. Be sure to stop before reaching the quick, which contains nerves and blood vessels, just behind the area where the nail starts to curve downward. Plan to have a small bottle of blood clotting powder on hand just in case.

Ear Maintenance
Ear maintenance is also vital to your pet's health. Ear infections can be painful, but, more importantly, can lead to a loss of hearing. Inspect your pets' ears every two weeks. The skin inside the flap should be pale pink. If you detect a foul odor or see red, brown, or black areas of skin, contact your veterinarian. Using a cotton ball moistened with warm water, swab the inside of the ear flaps and the opening of the ear canal.

Dental Care
Just like humans, dogs and cats can get cavities and periodontal disease. Brush your pets' teeth twice a week using a small brush with soft bristles and pet toothpaste.