Benefits of Taking Your Pet to a Professional Groomer

Do you bathe your pup at home? Or are you part of the increasing group of individuals who bring their beloved pups to the salon? Although convenience is a common motivation for dog owners who opt for professional grooming services, there are other compelling reasons to consider having your furry friend groomed by a professional. Continue reading to discover the benefits of bringing your beloved pet to a professional groomer, according to a local Ingersoll, IA veterinarian.

What Advantages Does One Gain From Visiting A Professional Groomer?

There’s no denying the convenience of taking Fido to the salon. You have the opportunity to leave your beloved dog and receive a well-groomed, pleasant-smelling, and pampered puppy in return after a short period of time.

Additionally, there are several other benefits:

No Cleanup

Washing Fido at home may be more cost-effective, but it’s inevitable that things might get a little messy. Even if Fido is well-behaved in the tub, he will inevitably shake off water and make a mess afterward. You might also need to clean up the water on the floor and remove your dog’s fur from the bathtub. Visiting a groomer ensures a hassle-free experience.

Care For Fido’s Ears

Yet another advantage of opting for a groomer? Fido’s adorable ears can be cleaned by a professional. This is especially crucial for puppies with those irresistibly cute floppy ears. That particular ear type is more susceptible to infections due to the shape of the ear flaps, which creates a moist environment. Due to the numerous ridges in dogs’ ear canals, a favorable environment is created for the growth of bacteria, yeast, and, unfortunately, infections.

Some puppies may require their ear hair to be trimmed or plucked. This task definitely requires the expertise of a trained professional in the field of medical grooming.

Not As Much Shedding

Fido’s adorable coat is undeniably charming, although he does have a tendency to generously distribute his fur throughout the house. Regular grooming can significantly decrease the amount of fur that ends up on your sofa, carpets, and even on you.

Safely Remove Mats

Does your furry friend have long fur? In that case, Fido might be more susceptible to developing tangles and mats. These can be quite uncomfortable. In addition, they disrupt the natural insulating properties of your pet’s coat, making it more challenging for them to regulate their body temperature during both winter and summer. In addition, they can also result in skin issues. To keep your pet’s coat in top shape, it’s important to be consistent with brushing and take proactive measures to prevent mats and snarls. If your pup becomes tangled, it’s best to have a professional remove the mats.

Medical Grooming

Certain pups require more than just a regular bath. With certain dogs, it may be necessary to have their anal glands expressed.  Trimming ear hair is also considered a part of medical grooming. This should be done by a trained professional and is not suitable for home-based execution. If your vet suggests any type of medical grooming, it would be best to take your pup to a salon.

Ensure Your Furry Friend’s Comfort

Getting Fido in and out of a tub can sometimes be a challenge… especially if he isn’t particularly excited about the upcoming bath, like many dogs. Large dogs can sometimes pose a challenge when it comes to lifting or persuading them. It’s also important to exercise caution with seniors. As dogs grow older, they can experience stiffness and soreness, similar to how we humans do. Even the act of being held can cause them pain. They are also quite delicate, making them prone to injury. If Fido were to slip or fall while getting in and out of the tub, there is a possibility of him getting injured. Groomers provide stations that are designed to be easily accessible for pups, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable grooming experience for them.

A Trained Eye

Although a groomer should never be seen as a substitute for proper veterinary care, they can alert you to any potential issues and advise you to promptly schedule an appointment for Fido. Groomers are skilled at identifying potential health concerns. Chances are, Fido’s stylist probably has a keen eye and extensive experience, allowing them to detect things at an early stage. They may observe various issues, such as fleas and parasites, lesions, swelling, skin problems and redness, bites and cuts, soreness, and puncture wounds, among others. Keep in mind that early detection often leads to the most effective treatment. 

Social Interactions

Is your adorable companion still a puppy? It’s highly recommended to familiarize little Fido with visits to a professional groomer, even if you primarily intend to bathe and groom him at home. It is highly recommended to engage in this activity during your pet’s socialization period, which typically concludes around four months of age. 

As your furry friend becomes more accustomed to being handled by various individuals and receiving grooming on his paws, teeth, ears, and coat, he will gradually become more at ease with these experiences in the future. That, undoubtedly, can make it significantly more effortless for you.

When is the ideal time to take your pet to the salon for the first time? It is generally advisable to have this done before your pet reaches approximately 16 weeks of age.

It’s important to mention that it can be beneficial to begin preparing your dog for professional grooming by familiarizing him with brushing and handling his ears and paws. This can also enhance the connection between individuals. One suggestion is to give your pet’s paws a gentle massage and carefully trim their nails with a clipper. Feel free to gently stroke and caress your furry friend’s face. If little Fido isn’t accustomed to wearing a harness, that’s also something you can work on. Consult your veterinarian for further details.

Pawdicures

Regular nail trims are crucial for maintaining your furry friend’s well-being. Overgrown nails can be quite uncomfortable and hinder Fido’s ability to maintain good traction. They can also have an impact on his walking, running, and weight distribution. Over time, long nails can worsen or contribute to bone and joint issues, such as arthritis. Consult your veterinarian for further details.

Adaptable Schedules

Grooming needs can vary significantly among dogs. Occasional baths and a light weekly brushing are sufficient for some pups. Others require regular brushing on a daily basis. The frequency of Fido’s beauty treatments will depend on the length and type of his coat. No matter what schedule you have, establishing a routine for grooming appointments can help you stay organized and keep Fido looking sharp and well-groomed.

It’s So Easy!

Having your pet groomed at your vet comes with an additional benefit: the convenience of one-stop shopping. You have the option to conveniently pick up Fido’s medications or parasite prevention, or even schedule an exam for him on the same day. 

Schedule An Appointment For Dog Grooming At Your Ingersoll, IA Vet

Does your furry friend need a little freshening up? Is your dog in need of medical grooming? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. We are here to assist you as your Ingersoll, IA vet and groomer!