Keep your pet catwalk ready with our summer grooming tips!

Keeping your furry family groomed and well maintained is important any time of the year, but especially so in the summer months. There are a number of things to consider at this time of year, such as keeping your pet cool and keeping ticks and other pests at bay.

Grooming is a great way to bond with your pet as it's a chance for you to spend quality time together. Regular grooming can improve the well-being and temperament of your pet, especially during the summer months if they get uncomfortable with the heat.

• Brushing your furry friend

  This should be done as regularly as possible during the hot weather. Brushing will help keep the coat tangle-free and glossy, but it’s essential during the warmer months when your pet will naturally shed more than usual. It will remove any dead or malted hair, allowing your pet to feel lighter and cooler. It also gives you an opportunity to check for fleas, ticks and pests, which like to breed during the warmer conditions.

• Bathing your dog

  Some pets love it, some hate it, but bathing is a necessity for keeping the skin and coat in good condition. Try brushing your pet before tempting them into the bath as the fur will be much easier to wash and rinse if it’s knot free. Ensure the water is not too hot or cold, start from the neck and work your way down the body, avoiding the face and ears as much as possible. Use a sensitive shampoo to lather up the suds and really work your fingers into the coat. Many dogs will love this massage; you may never need to persuade them into the bath again!

• Cutting your dog’s hair
  

  You can give your pet a trim either at home or visit a professional groomer – whatever is best for your furry friend. It’s important to remember that our pets have inbuilt cooling systems. It may be tempting to clip your pet to keep them cool, but this isn’t always necessary. Unless your pet is used to being clipped it can actually cause discomfort and lead to skin problems. It’s important to do what is best for your particular breed of dog. Once the coat has been thinned out your furry friend will thank you for being so much cooler and comfortable in the summer heat.

• Clipping your dog’s nails
  

  This is the time of year our furry family love to be outdoors, exploring and playing. It’s essential that their nails are kept in tip-top condition so that they don’t overgrow. If left to grow too long, your dog’s nails can split and break which can be painful and they can often become sharp and uncomfortable, taking a very long time to wear down naturally. Either arrange to have these clipped during a grooming session or choose a strong pair of nail clippers or scissors and trim them gently, after a bath if possible as the nails will be a little softer.

• Check your dog’s ears
  

  In the summer, many dogs like to take a dip, whether it’s a swim in the sea, a splash in a stream or the paddling pool in the garden, wet ears can cause ear infections, especially if your dog’s ears fold over. Take care to dry your pet after a dip and try to keep the ears dry. It’s good to check your dog’s ears at least once a week during the summer, even if they haven’t been in water, sweat can build up in the ear which can create a breeding ground for bacteria.

• Pet paw pads
  

  As cute as they are, dog’s paws are actually very sensitive and ensuring they stay healthy is a must. Paw pads can really suffer in Summer due to hot pavements. It’s essential that you check the temperature of footpaths before you take your furry friend for a walk to make sure it is safe, as hot concrete can be dangerous and can burn your dog’s paw pads. You can also keep your dog’s paws well-conditioned with a dog friendly moisturiser to prevent cracking.

• Flea & Tick Treatment
  

  Fleas and ticks are much more prevalent in the warmer weather. With your pet spending much more time outdoors, it’s important to make sure their treatment is up to date. If you don’t keep your pet on a year-round flea control treatment, now’s a good time to talk to your vet about the best treatment for your pet.

• Sunscreen
  

  In the hot weather it’s a good idea to apply sunscreen. Applying a sunscreen intended for pets to more vulnerable areas (such as noses, tips of the ears and the belly!) will offer protection and prevent serious sun damage. It’s really important that you only use formulas that are specifically intended for your pet. You should be able to buy this at a pet store, or your vet might be able to recommend a brand.
  If you’re using a new product then you should also monitor your pet for any adverse reactions to the sunscreen. You could also test it out on a small area of skin and check for any redness or irritation before applying elsewhere.