For pets, grooming plays important role

We call them “tumbleweeds.” Those loosely formed balls of dog and cat fur that roll merrily across the hardwood floors can be found no matter how diligently my husband and I vacuum. But I shudder to think what the house would look like if we did not regularly groom our pets. Tumbleweeds the size of small cars would surely eat us alive.

I have no formal training in pet grooming, but I do understand its importance. Grooming is not just about brushing a pet’s coat; it is a way to keep tabs on his general well-being. Using touch, sight and smell, you can learn to recognize when something is not right with your animal.

If your pet is young, start with short sessions right away. If he is older, first get him used to being touched on his ears, belly, feet, tail, etc. Then slowly introduce a brush, nail clippers, and any other items you may wish to use.

Make grooming fun. Heap lots of praise on your furry friend, and reward him afterwards with playtime or a treat. Your little shedding machine will be much more cooperative if he associates grooming with good things.

Brushing

Brushing your pet is a wonderful way to keep his skin healthy and coat glossy. It removes dirt, stimulates circulation and aids in the distribution of natural oils. The brush you use depends upon the type of fur your pet has. In general, take care to go slowly, inspecting the skin for abnormalities, fleas and ticks. Look for matted fur, which leads to discomfort and skin infections if not removed. Brush frequently, as often as once a day for thick-coated and long-haired animals.

Bathing

Dogs and cats should be bathed only as needed. Frequent bathing can strip an animal’s coat of essential oils and introduce skin problems. We bathe our dog every two to three months and our cats simply get wiped down with a damp cloth once a week.

If using a bathtub or sink, put down a rubber mat or towel for secure footing. Use a shampoo made especially for pets and start at the head, working your way down to the tail. Finally, rinse thoroughly. Towels are great for drying, but if you use a hair dryer, be sure that it is on the lowest setting, and that neither the heat nor the noise is too close for comfort.

Other Tasks

- Paws: Long claws can become ingrown, affect his gait and be very painful. Most pets need their claws trimmed every two to six weeks. There are several types of dog nail clippers available, but a cat’s claws can be trimmed with common fingernail clippers. Also check for injuries between and around the pads of each foot.

- Ears: Inspect for excessive hair, dirt and wax. A foul odor is indicative of infection and calls for the attention of a veterinarian. He or she can also show you how to clean your pet’s ears to prevent future problems.

- Teeth: Regular brushing can prevent painful conditions such as periodontal disease and abscesses. Use pet toothpaste and aim for two to three times per week.

- Eyes: Look for redness, discharge and other abnormalities. Trim unwanted hair using blunt-nosed scissors.

Regular grooming is essential to your pet’s well-being and can serve to strengthen your bond with him. Your pet will look, smell and feel better, making him an even more enjoyable part of your life. Plus, you just might keep those pesky tumbleweeds at bay.

Ann Holland serves on the Lynchburg Humane Society’s Board of Directors and is a volunteer for various animal welfare causes.