Pet odors around the house.

The source of pet odor is hair, dander and oil -- on your pet, and in your carpets and upholstery.

The cure for both is the same: a brisk brushing and a good shampooing. Start by having your dog professionally groomed, or brush out all the loose hair and give them a bath. Next, tackle your carpets and upholstery.

 

Can I use human shampoo on my pet?

Using a shampoo formulated for pets is best. Human shampoos aren't toxic to pets, but some may contain fragrances or other substances that can irritate their skin.

If you have any questions, It’s always smart to talk with your pet's groomer or veterinarian to make sure you’re selecting a shampoo that will meet your pet's needs.

 

 

Winterizing your Pet

   Your pet has specific needs to help it through the winter months. Keeping your pet warm is just one factor to consider. If your pet’s hair mats or tangles easy, you may want to keep a shorter haircut and bundle it in a dog sweater or coat for better warmth. Regular grooming is necessary for clean skin and circulation for warmth. Also, the ground, snow and ice melt can be harsh on your pets’ feet. Removing the excess hair from between the pads will stop snow from collecting and forming uncomfortable ice chunks. Make sure to wipe salt and ice melt products from your pets’ as they may irritate the skin greatly. A happy pet makes a warm pet!

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Keeping cool in the summer

    Bathing during the warm summer months not only keeps your pet cuddly but also helps them to stay cool. Often, dogs roll in dirt on hot days to stay cool. That’s good for a temporary fix. However, one of the main ways your pet regulates his or her temperature is to circulate fresh air throughout the skin. This is best done by having clean pores and a healthy amount of oil in the skin.

    Bathing is recommended no more than once a month, unless your pet has a condition that requires special bathing care or if he or she happens to get into something that needs to be removed promptly. It takes a while for dirt to clog pores, but after a month or two it can finally reach beneath your pet’s coat and to the skin. By that time, the hair may be noticeably dirty when petting your loved one and is ready to be bathed.

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Allergies and Grooming

Dogs and cats can be itchy in winter months as well as during seasonal allergy months. Dry air can affect their skin just like a human's. The skin can get dry, flaky, and itcy, but lotion will make the hair oily and harder to take care of.

Medicated shampoos and conditioners can be used to help ease the irritated skin and bring relief to you pet. They will also help eleviate the dandruff. Most medicated shampoos and conditioners have oatmeal as the main ingredient, so if your pet has any allergies to oatmeal, be sure to let your groomer know. Your pet groomer should be aware of all medical conditions your pet may have. If your pet has the tendency to be affected by seasonal allergies, medicated shampoos and conditioners can help your pet's itchiness during those times, as well. Seasonal allergy symptoms can be excessive scratching, licking of legs and paws, or ears becoming dirty or infected. Consult your regular veterinarian for additional treatments besides medicated baths.