Photo:
Александр Гросс via Unsplash

Hair and nails are a problem for all of us right now with the closure of salons around the country. Your pet's hygiene is suffering too. Should you attempt to groom your pet at home?

Since dog groomers are not considered life-sustaining businesses and have been closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, many dogs, who visit the groomer regularly, are missing their scheduled appointments. 


Now could be the time to learn a few grooming skills. But where to learn? No problem, Youtube to the rescue. There are several tutorials on Youtube; however, the video below from Go Groomer gives a step-by-step explanation to help you decide if you want to try it out.

https://youtu.be/V-Xp2RaG_2c

If you do decide to try grooming, there are a few things you need to know. According to Dr. Jerry Klein, CVO of the American Kennel Club, it is important to keep a few things in mind:

  • Obtain the right tools
  • Use a brush that is intended for the coat of your dog breed. . Check with your professional groomer, breeder, or veterinarian to ensure you are using the best option before making your purchase.
  • Brush your canine companion every other day (even short-haired breeds) to remove dirt and debris, prevent matting, control shedding, and create a shiny coat.
  • Use a damp towel to wipe any dirt, mud, sand, pine needles, or other outdoor debris from your dog’s coat as needed.
  • Check your dog daily for ticks, or more than once per day during tick season.
  • Check your dog’s pads regularly. Check for cleanliness and also to ensure that they are not dry, cracked, or injured in any way. Excessive hair may grow between your dog’s toes. It can become matted or cause other problems. It should be trimmed to be even with the paw pads or slightly shorter. This must be done carefully to prevent cutting your dog.
  • Keep your dog’s nails trimmed. There are videos online to explain the best way to trim your dog's nails.
  • Wipe the inside of your dog’s ears weekly with a moist cotton ball or soft cloth. It is important to thoroughly dry each ear after they get wet.
  • Daily brushing of your dog’s teeth is best, but you should brush your dog’s teeth at least a few times per week. Plaque starts to build up after 48 hours.
  • Always use veterinarian-approved hygiene products on your dog.

Good luck and let us know how it goes if you do decide to give grooming a try.