Keeping Up Appearances: The Importance of Dog Grooming

First appearances say a lot. If your dog is dirty and unkempt, people may assume that it is not friendly or well cared for. They may be hesitant to interact. However, if your dog has a clean, well-trimmed coat, socialization can be easier. In addition, regular grooming is good for your dog’s health and well-being. You wouldn’t leave your hair and nails uncared for, so you shouldn’t leave your dog’s either.

A Healthy Coat

Daily brushing can rid your dog’s coat of shedding fur and dander buildup. It also works out knots and matting that may occur from everyday activities such as laying and rolling on the floor. Plus, when you give your dog a nice deep brushing, it can stimulate oil production in their skin which keeps their coat looking shiny and healthy.

The groomer also gives your dog a thorough brushing and washes their fur too. Unlike humans, dogs don’t need a bath every day or even every week, but a periodic shampooing and conditioning is beneficial. The groomer will use special products that won’t dry out your dog’s skin and is healthy for their coat. Regular grooming can also help reduce shedding!

Increased Comfort

Some dogs have very thick or long fur. Keeping it trimmed and tangle-free can make your pet more comfortable. You may get it cut a little shorter in the summer to keep them cool while leaving it a little longer during winter for warmth. The groomer will also clean up the fur between their toes and around their eyes and ears.

Early Detection of Problems

As the groomer gives your dog a thorough once-over, they may be able to identify any potential problems such as dry skin, rashes, bumps or growths, ticks or fleas, or other issues that could be a red flag. These are signs you might not have noticed but your groomer has been trained to look for. You can then schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have these issues further evaluated and treated. Early detection can catch problems before they become more serious.

Injury Prevention

Regular grooming is also good for injury prevention – for you and your dog! Long, sharp nails can become caught in clothing and furniture. They can leave scratches on people, flooring, and belongings as well. Your dog can also injure their own skin when scratching with nails that have not been trimmed. The groomer will safely cut or file them back to an appropriate length. They can also look for any objects that may have become lodged in or between the pads of your dog’s paws and could cause them harm or discomfort.

Protect your dog’s health and keep them looking their best with regular appointments with a groomer. Ensure you’re also doing your part at home by regularly brushing them and checking their eyes, ears, paws, and skin for issues. Make your dog’s stay at Lake Wylie Pet Resort even more productive and beneficial by scheduling them for grooming while they’re there. Whether you’re dropping them off for boarding or doggie daycare, ask about an appointment for grooming as well. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.