Grooming a pet can seem an intimidating task to the owner. However, grooming offers the owner a chance to bond with their pet, keep them looking good, examine for infestation and diseases, and train them desired habits. The pet owner can utilize professional grooming services if for example the pet is going to participate in a competition or the service is easily available. However, there are techniques you can utilize to make the process enjoyable and efficient at home. You can employ the following techniques to groom your pet at home.
Brush the Pet with Care
Pets are different from one another, therefore, there is no one technique, frequency or brush that is suitable for every pet. Before you brush your pet, you can seek professional advice on a brush or technique that is suitable to your size or breed of pet. You can utilize different techniques or brushes to determine which is best for your pet, like if you have a dog with a different type of hair or fur, then you should determine the best dog brush according to the fur of your dog for the best results. If the pet has long hair, it is advisable to use a slick brush and brush regularly. On the other hand, if short-haired you can use a simple brush and brush at least weekly. Always brush before giving the pet a bath to entangle knots. Start by brushing the back or sides and finish with the delicate parts. Stroke gently while placing your hand on the fur to prevent yanking. Remember to offer rewards and praise the pet.
Make the Process Fun and Comfortable
Always undertake the grooming process in a quiet and warm location that will make the pet relax. Groom when you are stress-free so that you can give the care and patience required of the process. Do not use deep waters to bath the pet only use a few inches of water. Wet their skins while applying shampoo that is specific to the pet while taking care not to apply on the delicate parts. After scrubbing gently, rinse with water and use a dry cloth to dry the face and other areas.
Give It a Haircut If Necessary
Consider whether you like your pet with long hair or short. It depends on the style you like while others may not consider a haircut for safety reasons. If you do a haircut, use special clippers rather than scissors for those new to the process. Cut the hair after the bath when your pet is about to dry. Remember to offer treats and praises while cutting the hair.
Trim Your Pet’s Nails
Trimming your pet’s nails is beneficial to both you and your pet. This is the most daunting part of the process as your pet can get aggressive or for fear of injuring it. Despite the risks, trimming nails prevents infections or scratching to the owner. Caress the toes for a period before trimming so that the pet is used to touch. Use clipper scissors or clippers. Use styptic powder to sterilize the nails. Take care not to cut the pinkish part of the nails as it contains nerves. Trim on a small part of the nails at a time taking care not to cut the nerves and cause bleeding. If the pet exhibits excessive fear to the trimming employ a professional to do it instead.
Finally, Check the Ears, Eyes, Teeth and Skin
Checking these parts while ensuring that you notice potential problems early. Check the skin for infestation, marks, bumps, or hair loss. Some pets such as puppies can exhibit discharge from the eyes. However, check for redness or odor emanating from the discharge. Check the ears taking care not to clean them without seeking a professional’s advice. You can buy special toothbrushes and paste to clean the teeth or use a soft cloth them. Clean the teeth twice or thrice a week to prevent periodontal diseases.
— Featured photo by Flickr user aukirk, Creative Commons