Why regular grooming is important for your pet
Pet Bulletin
‘Mews and Yips’ from the Central Aroostook Humane Society
By Gloria Towle
Board member
Just an update for all those wondering. We have received notification that our new vehicle will be arriving soon from Toyota! We will keep you all posted when the time comes.
With two rather spoiled indoor cats at my house, I realize the importance of grooming. It’s rare that I actually do the grooming thanks to my husband, Steve. He will let our kitties outside on our enclosed deck and will groom Willie and Annie at least three or four times a week. They actually seem to enjoy the grooming process, although they would never let on that they do. It’s unbelievable the amount of fur that is removed each time. This still, however, doesn’t eliminate the shedding of some fur “inside,” but it certainly does help!
Pet Friendly Canada has some helpful tips: Grooming your pet isn’t just for appearance; regular grooming also promotes bonding between you and your pet, helps to minimize shedding, allows you to find lumps or other conditions that should be checked by a vet, and helps to keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy.
Basic grooming can be done in the home. This can include brushing/combing of the coat, brushing your pet’s teeth (yes, really!), trimming nails and cleaning ears.
Professional pet groomers can assist you with all of the above and more. They can also remove mats (although regular grooming will help to ensure mats don’t form at all); clip your pet in a manner that suits his breed; give baths, either regular or medicated; and remove harmful substances, like skunk odor!
When you choose a groomer, ensure the facility is well-equipped, well-lit and clean. Watch the groomers; they should be treating all pets with care. How do they handle frightened or uncooperative pets? Do they appear confident and knowledgeable? Make sure you are comfortable leaving your pet in their hands. Ask questions. Dogs and cats should ideally be kenneled in separate areas. How often does the staff monitor the pets in their care? Provide the groomer with information on any health conditions or habits that your pet has that may affect the grooming session. Some pets may be uncooperative at first and will need to be eased into the grooming experience at home before being brought to a professional groomer. If your pet finds it too stressful to go out to a professional business, consider employing the services of a mobile pet groomer.
Please consider finding your next companion at The Central Aroostook Humane Society. Our hours are Tuesday thru Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a lunch break from 12 to 12:30 p.m. Visit us online at www.centralaroostookhumanesociety.org or check us out on Facebook.
Please be responsible; spay and neuter your pets!
