Pet Grooming Can Be Made Fun And Enjoyable


When you first take your new pet home there are some basics that need to be established as part of your pet’s life.  One of the most important is proper grooming habits. When a pet is properly groomed then the risk for parasite and other infections goes down greatly.
 
To start the grooming process first inspect the outside of your pet. This can be done in a playful manner so that your pet does not become nervous.  For instance roll your pet over on their stomach for a good belly scratch.  While you are scratching away look over your pet’s stomach, underarms, and genitalia for any debris, mats of fur, or broken skin.  After that has been done run your hands over the pet's trunk feeling for the same issues as noted above.  This same procedure needs to be done for the whole body.  
 
Next are the ears and the mouth.  First inspect the ears.  Make sure to note if there are any debris that will need to be removed with a soft cloth and some appropriate deriding solution formulated for your pet.  If there are any large amounts of hair in the ear those can be removed by clippers or a trip to the groomers, if you do not feel comfortable doing it your self. By cleansing the ears on a daily basis the reduction of mites and other pests is significant.  Also, many pets come to enjoy this bonding time with their masters.  When finished with the ears the mouth must be inspected. 
 
When inspecting the mouth of any pet always look for obstructions such as food or sticks in the mouth.  Remove these items promptly if found.  All pet teeth need to be brushed at least once every two days, but I recommend that they get brushed everyday for the best all around health of the animal.  To begin to brush the teeth you will need:  1.)A soft child’s toothbrush or a finger brush formulated for your pet, 2.)Pet tooth paste or a solution of baking soda and salt will also work just fine.  The main issue for pet teeth is the build up of plaque not cavities as we humans get. Plaque destroys pet teeth and makes it very difficult for them to chew and eat properly. To start brushing teeth pull the lips of the animal back so they do not get in the way and make short circular motions going all around the outside of the pets mouth before attempting to brush the inside to get your pet accustomed to the brushing sensation.  When finished brushing your pets teeth make sure you reward your pet’s good behavior.  
 
Once the teeth have been brushed it is time for a whole body brushing.  Make sure that when grooming your pet you start from the back and go forward using a medium tooth comb to remove and dead skin, dirt and debris. After this initial brush you may bathe your pet if desired or you can continue with the brushing moving to a different type comb depending on the grooming standards for your pet’s coat.  It is good practice to brush your pet daily as this helps to stimulate the coat and to remove anything that should not be there.
 
I have saved the worst for last and that is the feet.  The feet of any animal are very sensitive and it is vital to keep the feet well groomed and trimmed to avoid any foot disorders. Pet feet should be trimmed or filed as needed.  Pet nails should never touch the floor when a pet walks and if they do should be trimmed promptly. Make sure that if you are cutting your companion's nails that you can see the “quick” just like in a human nail if this is cut you pet will bleed profusely.  Always have styptic powder on hand for these occasions.  For those who  are worried about hurting you pet there are wonderful products on the market especially for pet nails that work great and are less stressful for both owner and pet. Nails that are over grown can become snagged on carpets or other ground covering and cause ripping pout of the nail or improper placement of the feet when walking.  When providing foot care for your animal make sure to trim the long hair between the foot pads and to inspect for any signs for breakdown. Once your pet is accustomed to having their pedicure this will be a pleasurable experience for both you and your pet.