You want to keep your furry friend cool, clean, and comfortable throughout the summer months, and regular pet grooming is an effective way to do so. Every pet has different grooming needs based on their age, coat, and activity level, but the main goal is always healthy skin, nails, and fur. Below, Elyria Animal Hospital in Lorain County, OH, answers some of their customers’ most frequently asked questions to prepare you for your pet’s next appointment.

Pet Owners’ Common Questions About Pet Grooming

Does Regular Grooming Benefit Your Pet?

Frequent pet grooming will keep your pet’s coat beautiful and promote healthy skin and teeth. If their fur gets matted or tangled, it can cause irritation, and they may try to bite or pull the matted hair apart. This can lead to fur balls, as well as increased anxiety. 

How Often Should They Be Bathed? 

Your pet’s bathing schedule will depend on a few factors. Pets that stay inside most of the day won’t need to be bathed as often, maybe every two to four months or so. Bathing too much can dry out their skin and lead to a lackluster coat. However, if they are dirty or smelly, they should be bathed before that benchmark.

Similarly, your cat should be bathed about every four to six weeks. Long-haired cats need more frequent bathing, as will cats that are active or spend time outdoors. Long-haired pets may benefit from a hair trim at the beginning of the summer. 

How Old Does a Puppy Have to Be for Grooming? 

If you have a puppy, taking them to the groomer while they’re young can help make them feel calmer during the process. Puppies can be groomed as early as eight weeks old. Their first grooming will be minimal, probably just including a bath, blow-dry, and nail trimming, but they can get used to being groomed.

What Should You Bring to the Groomer?

Bring a collar and leash with you, and let the groomer know if your pet has any special needs. Tell the staff about anxiety, skin issues, health problems, or medications they regularly take. You should also let the groomer know if they have any sensitive areas, such as an injured paw or sensitive tail.

If you need high-quality pet grooming services for your dog or cat, contact Elyria Animal Hospital. Based in Elyria, OH, they’ve been providing excellent services like nail trimming, bathing, ear cleaning, and more for 20 years. They also offer boarding and are a full-service veterinary clinic. To learn more about how they can keep your pet happy and healthy, visit their website or call (440) 365-3818 to schedule an appointment today.