Whether you’ve got a dog with a formidable double coat like a husky or the nice short ‘do of a pit bull, grooming should be among your routine! There are plenty of pet owners out there that leave their pupper’s maintenance to nature… Curious as to why that is not recommended? Then keep on reading!
Pet grooming has taken on a strong connotation – when I say grooming, do you picture a fluffy, precision-cut poodle? Maybe a fancy salon with state of the art technology comes to mind. Odds are you don’t think of yourself as a “groomer.”
All dogs deserve to be pampered, as do their caring owners! Grooming goes beyond stylized haircuts. In the same way we brush our teeth and take showers, our pets need an attentive routine. Here’s why.
Allergy Reduction
Starting off strong, a big pro for both you and your pet is the impact a regular washing can have on allergens. Your pet’s hair can harbor allergens and pollen. This can lead to their unwanted itchiness and your unwanted sneezing. When your pup goes outside and their coat magnetizes debris, this all finds its way into your home, especially your carpet.
This is the case for outdoor allergies, like grasses and trees. Even if you and your pet aren’t formally allergic, different pollutants can still dirty your space, air, and cause irritation to you and your furry friend.
If, like me, you are allergic to dogs, a regular bath can help purge some of the dog dander that causes human reactions. A regular scrub and brush (which we will get to) can increase comfort levels for those that cohabitate with an animal they are allergic to.
It is recommended you bathe your four-legged friend every one to three months. Depending on the intensity of their hair, the prevalence of any allergies (for humans or dogs), and their propensity to get dirty, their needs may change.
Keeping That ‘Do Fresh
Keeping your pet’s hair well brushed, whether a wooly mammoth or near baldy, is also a key part of this routine. Not only will your pet maintain their primo softness and appearance, but you will also appreciate a decrease in shedding.
The more often you brush when needed, the more you and your pet will see benefits. This can be especially impactful during shedding season. Freshly shedded hair can be a nuisance to both you and your pet, so it’s best to keep you both comfortable with a regular brush.
Bonus: Keeping it Tidy Post Groom
Let’s say you give your pet a good regular brush. You do the best you can to pick up all that hair you just shook loose, but there are inevitable stragglers. This hair can be caked with pollen, dander, and allergens. Make sure you get all those clumps up so they don’t circulate in your home. But how?!
To really rake up the hair your vacuum misses, grab yourself a Lilly Mini Blade. Maybe you and your pet have a weekly TV watch mixed with some nice brushing. Clean up your space after with a couple quick swipes – thank me later!
Building Safety and Security
It isn’t uncommon for pets to struggle with the elements of grooming. Washing and brushing can be their worst nightmare. It is important to engage in these practices regularly to keep your pet familiar and somewhat comfortable, especially if you want to take them to a groomer.
The key to all success is a well-oiled routine! Just as self-care has been all the rage for us humans, we need to take time to show some love and care to our pets. If establishing your own grooming routine is overwhelming, consider finding a credible groomer to fill in the gaps.
Don’t leave it all to the groomer to deal with a temperamental pup with a messy coat. Make sure you do your part to get them comfortable with this routine and clean, even if they are regularly groomed. As another added bonus, consider using pet wipes to give them a once over after a particularly sweaty walk or messy romp.
Engaging in regular grooming practices can also help establish trust and security between you and your pup. This just warms my heart! The same way we prioritize a nighttime routine with a child to build a secure attachment, our pets are much the same.
Prevention and Awareness
Lastly and most practically, regular upkeep of your pet can help prevent disease, mats, and buildup. This also builds awareness around your furry friend’s usual coat, lumps, and bumps. Something looking different about their skin? It is worth asking your vet to give a once over.
Taking Care of Those We Love
I know grooming isn’t usually one of the fun or appealing parts of being a pet owner. We all want to cuddle and adventure with our precious friend, not teach them to let us bathe and brush them. A key facet of their health is their regular groom, though! The next time it feels like a chore, remind yourself that grooming helps you both to enjoy the things you love more. Future you and your pet will thank you!
