The summer brings hot weather, and some pets require some consistent grooming. Dogs and cats have all sorts of fur coats, so they must be well-maintained in the summer so as not to overheat and stay comfortable. Here are some summer grooming tips to help pets stay clean, comfortable, and healthy during the warmer months.
Regular Brushing
Brushing your pets regularly should be an essential part of their pet care routine. Brushing helps remove loose fur, dirt, and debris from their coat. It also prevents matting and reduces shedding, which will leave less vacuuming to do around the house. Brushing also helps distribute natural oils, keeping their skin and coat healthy.
Trimming
Trimming and brushing should be done regularly, depending on your pet’s fur length and coat. A thick or long coat can absorb more heat. This can get uncomfortable in the summer heat. Consider giving your pet a summer trim to keep their coat shorter and more manageable in the heat. However, be cautious not to shave them down completely, as their fur provides insulation against heat and prevents sunburn.
Bathing
It’s important to bathe your pet, but only when necessary. Washing your pet often is not good as it removes the natural oils in their furs. Bathe your pet as needed to keep them clean and odor-free. Use a pet-friendly shampoo and lukewarm water, and thoroughly rinse all soap residue from their coat to prevent skin irritation. Ask your vet for shampoo recommendations, especially if your pet has sensitive and reactive skin.
Tick and Flea Prevention and Parasite Control
Summer months often increase tick and flea interactions as we spend more time outside. Use vet-recommended preventative treatments to protect your pet from these parasites, and check them regularly for any signs of infestation. In addition to ticks and fleas, summer can increase the presence of other parasites like mosquitoes and flies. Use preventative measures such as insect repellents or protective clothing to minimize the risk of bites, diseases and infestations.
Paw Care
The Summer heat can make the pavement very hot, and there can be more debris outdoors as more people spend time outside. Check your pet’s paw pads regularly for signs of injury, irritation, or foreign objects like burrs or thorns. Keep their paw pads moisturized with pet-safe paw balms to prevent cracking and discomfort from hot surfaces.
Ear Cleaning
Another essential grooming tip is to keep up with your pet’s ear cleaning. Keep your pet’s ears clean and dry to prevent infections. This is especially important if they enjoy swimming and getting their head wet in the summer. Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner and gently wipe away any dirt or wax buildup, taking care not to insert anything into their ear canal.
Sun Protection and Hydration
Pets with light-colored fur or exposed skin are susceptible to sunburn. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to their ears, nose, and any other areas prone to sunburn before spending time outdoors, and provide shaded areas for them to rest in to prevent heat stroke. Ensure your pet can access plenty of fresh water, especially during hot weather. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, so encourage them to drink regularly and consider adding ice cubes to their water bowl to keep it cool.
Regular Vet Check-ups
Scheduling regular check-ups with your veterinarian will help you ensure your pet remains healthy and address any grooming-related concerns or issues that may arise during the summer months. Keep their number close by in case there are any emergencies.
Stay Cool this Summer
Following these summer grooming tips can help keep your pet comfortable, happy, and healthy throughout the summer. For professional pet sitting, be sure to call Luv My Sitter!