Proper pet grooming is more than just aesthetics; it’s essential for the health and wellness of our beloved furry friends. Getting groomed at a regular pet salon inevitably brings people closer together, thus raising apprehensions due to the risk of coronavirus transmission. This is where grooming pets at home comes in. Until it’s completely safe to be around other people and bring them back to a regular groomer, pet parents are trying to do home pet grooming by themselves. This can be quite a challenge, and even risky. Here, we have gathered the dos and don’ts of home pet grooming and hygiene. 

Home Pet Grooming and Hygiene: What to Do

Use the right tools

Before you start any pet grooming routine at home, make sure you have done your research about the right tools to use. Ask for recommendations from professional groomers. They should know which ones are beginner-friendly. 

Keep nails trimmed

Overgrown nails can cause extreme discomfort in your pets so it is important to keep them trimmed. One natural way to wear down their nails is through walking on the sidewalk or pavement. You may have your pet scratch a piece of sandpaper on a cookie sheet like it’s part of playtime. 

Regular dental hygiene 

When it comes to dental hygiene, your pet’s teeth are no different. Plaque build-up can lead to periodontal disease, giving bacteria the opportunity to enter the bloodstream leading to more serious health problems if left untreated. Regular tooth brushing is the best way to avoid dental problems. 

Brushing and combing

Regular brushing keeps your pet’s coat healthy and looking its best as it removes excess hair from their coat and helps distribute the natural oils in their skin and fur. It’s also a great way to check for anything unusual such as hair mats, cuts, lumps, fleas, or ticks. Make sure to use a brush intended for the coat of your pet breed. Short-haired breeds need bristle brushes while sleeker brushes best work for long-haired breeds.

Home Pet Grooming and Hygiene: What Not to Do

Do not use human grooming products for pet grooming

There is a reason why veterinarians recommend grooming and hygiene products specifically for pets, one being that what’s safe for humans may be toxic to animals. For example, xylitol, which is found in most human toothpaste to prevent cavities, is fatal for dogs. Also, your regular shampoo may smell great but it doesn’t have the proper pH balance for your pet’s fur. 

Do not attempt to treat injuries yourself

Wounds, lacerations, sores, and other injuries are inevitable. Before attempting any treatment, always consult a veterinarian first. During your routine brushing and combing, if you notice anything unusual in your pet’s eyes, ears, nose, mouth, or paw pads, do not remove them yourself unless you get a go signal from a veterinarian.

Do not bathe your pet outdoors when it’s cold

Giving your pets a regular bath is important in keeping them clean and healthy, but make sure to evaluate weather conditions before doing so. When it’s cold outside, you might want to skip the bath or do it inside to avoid dangerous drops in your pet’s body temperature.

Home Pet Grooming and Hygiene: Are you Doing it Right?

If you have been relying on professional groomers, doing it yourself may be overwhelming both for you and your pet at first. How do you know whether you’re doing it right or you should stop? Pay attention to how your pet reacts. Do not be too occupied with just getting it done. Watch for signs of stress such as overpulling. Any new experience has a learning curve, so if it’s too stressful for you today, you can always try again tomorrow.