Here are some great tips on how to groom at home during a pandemic

Since in-person dog grooming appointments are off the table due to social distancing, we imagine your furry friend is in need of a serious spa day. Previously, most pet owners have relied on the professionals to trim, bathe and coif Fido’s fur, but now you have been left to your own devices.

Good hygiene – even in animals – is important to their health and well-being. Some breeds require regular grooming to maintain their typical coiffure, like poodles, shih tzus, and terriers. Other breeds like boxers, hounds, and beagles require less maintenance in the beauty department.

Regardless of your pup’s standard cut, a “maintenance” bath in between grooming appointments will keep your dog looking sharp and feeling good. And, you can do this all from the comfort of your own home.

Grab a few towels and roll your sleeves up! At-home grooming is easy to accomplish with a few tips from the professionals.

Tips for Grooming Your Dog at Home

What to Do:

Do use the right tools for the job. There are plenty of reputable grooming tools from pet sites, like Chewy or Amazon. If you have questions about which grooming tools you really need, give us a call and we can steer you in the right direction.
Do use a brush specific to the breed. Brushing every other day – even for short-haired breeds – is a good habit to get into. Regular brushing prevents matted fur and removes dirt and other debris.
Do check your dog for ticks. Ticks can make a dog very sick and cause permanent damage to their health. If you spot a tick, give us a call so we help you either remove the tick or schedule an appointment with us.
Do trim the hair back from their eyes. If your dog has longer “eyebrows”, make sure their hair is short enough so they can see properly. Be careful not to allow the hair to get into their eyes while trimming.
Do check your dog’s paw pads. Make sure there isn’t too much hair growing between them, or the hair isn’t matted. Also, do a double-check for cuts or debris between their paw pads.

What Not to Do:

Do not attempt to trim a dog’s nails. This is a tricky grooming skill best left to the professionals. It’s far too easy to clip the nails too short and cause bleeding. Regular walks will keep their nails at a safe and comfortable length.
Do not use human hygiene products. Shampoos, conditioners, and perfumes can be irritating to a dog’s sensitive skin. Opt for a dog shampoo recommended by a veterinarian or groomer.
Do not try to clip or shave your dog without proper training. Groomers understand the trims and cuts specific to your breed. Additionally, going near sensitive areas with clippers could be dangerous with a nervous pup.
Do not treat injuries at home. If you notice lacerations, cuts, or wounds of any kind, give us a call so we can advise if an appointment is necessary.
Do not attempt to remove mattes with kitchen scissors. Just like the clippers, scissors can cause serious injury if a nervous dog were to jump. Leave the mattes alone until you are advised by a veterinarian or professional groomer.

A squeaky clean dog is a healthy and happy dog! With these tips, a basic home grooming session in between appointments will keep your dog looking sharp and feeling fresh.

If you have any questions about grooming your dog at home, please give us a call.