Outdoor activities like swimming and rolling around in dust and dirt are a dog’s worst enemy when it comes to hair getting matted.
Matted fur can cause all kinds of problems because there is no air circulation to the skin. This can lead to hot spots, mold, bacterial or fungal infections which could draw maggots to the infection. Worst of all, your pet is in pain at these areas due to the fur is twisted and constantly pulling at the skin.
It is important to bathe and groom your furry buddy during the warmer months while they’re enjoying the warmer weather outside.
Everyone know it needs to happen, but doesn’t really know how often. It is often overlooked until their nails are so long they’re curling on the ground or stabbing you when they climb onto you. That can’t be good.
So you try to clip them and go too short. They yelp and then you notice that they’re bleeding. That can’t be good.
Dogs have something inside their nails called a quick. The quick is essentially a vein that keeps the nail living and healthy. The quick grows along with the nail, and so, to prevent causing pain and injury to your best friend, the nail must be scaled back so the quick will receed with it. Over time and maintenance, the nail becomes shorter and shorter until it is a comfortable length and won’t scratch you when they decide to come cuddle.
Nails should be trimmed about once a month, but there are other factors to think about. Are they active outdoors with walks or are they an indoor buddy? what’s there breed? Some breeds require more frequent trims. Are they young or old? Older dogs tend to have slower nail growth whereas younger dogs grow them faster. Just keep an eye on them and try to trim them or bring them to us, once a month so they can be comfortable. Don’t forget about those sneaky dew claws!
