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by Kim Slagle
As a groomer, I notice that many people believe it is okay to skip grooming their pets in the winter. The number one reason for this seems to be that they feel their pet will get cold. As you’ll soon see, you don’t have to worry about how your pet will handle being groomed in the cold weather. In fact, pet grooming is just as important during the winter months as it is during the other times of the year.
There are three very important reasons that pet grooming should not be neglected during the winter months:
Each spring I deal with pet owners and their pets that went all winter without grooming. Usually these pets have to be completely shaved down. I see a lot of the pets have skin infections and need antibiotics. This is due to tight matts, dirty and dry or wet coat and skin. The pet owners are upset because the pet isn’t fluffy and furry. They also don’t like being told they should take the pet to a vet to have the skin looked at. For those pets that aren’t quite to the point of a shave down, the owners get a larger bill from the groomer because it took the groomer twice as long to get through the dead coat. All of this could have been avoided by simply making a commitment to pet grooming the cold months.
If you do have a short coated pet that can go without grooming in the winter, don’t forget to care for the nails and ears. Sometimes these get over looked and can become an issue. Remember, keeping the nails trimmed will keep your pet bones and joints in great shape. Having the ears cleaned from dead hair and dirt can keep ear infections down. As always, if you want more information or have questions, contact your groomer. Stay safe this winter and have fun with your furbabies!
Kim Slagle has worked with animals for over 20 years. She is an experienced groomer currently working at Canine Shear Heaven. Her writing goal is to educate other pet parents about the value of regular and proper grooming for all breeds of dogs and cats.