Washing and Grooming

Grooming is an important part of pet care. Depending on the breed, age, and health of your pet, grooming may even need to be a part of your daily routine. Many breeds require less grooming than this, but regular grooming always helps to keep your pet healthy and comfortable. Some breeds like Poodles do not shed their hair effectively and require professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Long haired cats also particularly benefit from regular grooming as it helps prevent the formation of knots in the coat and hairballs in the stomach. A knotted coat is uncomfortable and can even be painful, so it is important to keep on top of your pet's grooming needs.

Grooming at Home

Dogs benefit from regular baths at home. Wash your pet in warm water with a dog specific shampoo and ensure the product is completely rinsed out of their coat. Residual shampoo can cause itching and rashes. A leave in conditioner can keep them smelling lovely for a little longer. Pets with sensitive skin may benefit from a bath in an oatmeal based shampoo.

Washing should be performed no more than once per week to prevent irritation of the skin.

We encourage you to engage in regular grooming with your pet at home. Some of the many benefits of regular grooming are:

  • Decreased chance of skin problems
  • Optimal skin cleanliness and comfort for you and your pet
  • The presence of lumps or skin lesions, pain, or changes in temperament may be detected earlier with regular grooming
  • Enhanced behavioural routines with obedience principals practised during grooming periods
  • Closer bonding with your pet through regular contact