Pet grooming goes beyond aesthetic preferences. All dogs, even short-haired breeds, need routine grooming to stay healthy. The following guide explains how a dog grooming service can help keep your pet safe.

Why Regular Dog Grooming Is a Health Necessity

1. Helps Your Dog Relax

Brushing your dog has all the benefits of a massage — the pressure relaxes and soothes muscles, reduces stress, and can even be enjoyable for your pup. With an attentive, patient, and affectionate groomer, regular appointments can help socialize your dog and make them more comfortable around people.

2. Boosts Blood Circulation

The soft rubber-tipped bristles on a brush improve blood circulation by stimulating the surrounding tissue. Increased blood circulation encourages new fur growth and helps to support your dog’s lymphatic system, which transports white blood cells when your dog needs to fight off an infection.

3. Exfoliate Your Dog’s Skin 

Over time, dead skin, dirt, and oil can clog your dog’s pores, leading to cysts or abscesses. Most dogs need to be bathed about once every four to six weeks, although this can vary slightly depending on your dog’s health, activity level, fur length, and coat type.

4. Prevent Matting

Heavily matted fur pulls at the skin and can create painful sores. Short-haired dogs usually need to be brushed at least once a week to prevent matting, but long-haired dogs could need daily attention. Professional grooming services make it easier to prevent tangles.

5. Protect Paws

Without regular trimming, your dog’s nails will become uncomfortably long. They can catch on debris and tear, or even grow into the paw pad. Long nails also affect your dog’s gait, which, over time, can lead to arthritis and musculoskeletal issues. A professional groomer can trim your dog’s nails safely without cutting the quick.

6. Avoid Ear Infections

If you notice that your dog’s ears look red or inflamed, they could have an ear infection. Sometimes these symptoms are also accompanied by a yeasty smell or head-shaking. You can avoid this scenario altogether by cleaning your dog’s ears to remove wax buildup and debris.

7. Clean Teeth

Almost 80% of dogs have gum disease by the time they turn three. To prevent painful toothaches and gum inflammation, you need to be proactive about cleaning your dog's teeth. Most groomers offer a dental scrub to freshen your dog’s breath and remove plaque. Between appointments, you can also give your dog teeth-cleaning treats.

8. Express the Anal Glands

It’s common for small breeds to experience impacted anal glands. This condition is painful and can lead to abscesses or ruptures if it’s left untreated. A dog groomer can evaluate your dog and express their anal glands if they’re full.

 

If you need a dog grooming service in Omaha, NE, trust the experts at The Paw Spa Pet Resort. They provide a comfortable, welcoming environment that’s cage-free, and their team takes every precaution to make your dog as happy as possible. To learn more about their dog grooming services, including bathing, de-shedding, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental cleaning, visit their website or call (402) 516-8888 today.