5 Quick Winter Grooming Tips
Our mild winters in Central Florida can be a nice break from the summer heat, but as the weather gets colder, your pet’s grooming schedule may also need some changes. Here are some quick tips for keeping their coat, skin and paws healthy and nourished this winter.
1- Regular Grooming
Depending on the coat type and skin care needs of your dog, we suggest keeping a regular grooming routine at least every 6-8 weeks.
During the colder months, regular grooming also helps to prevent matting, which can trap moisture, cause irritation and lead to more serious skin and coat conditions.
For double coated dogs, and breeds with coats that are prone to matting and that need consistent brushing, professional grooming is recommended at least every four weeks.
Terrier coated type dogs have less hair that doesn’t require scissoring or clippers, but these breeds still need regular bathing. We suggest giving them baths at least every 4-6 weeks to keep the skin clean, moisturized and free of dander.
2- Skin & Coat Specific Bathing
Bathing with a shampoo and conditioner that is specific to your pet’s skin and coat needs, helps them maintain clean, moisturized skin and fluffy fur. A specialty coat appropriate conditioner further protects their skin and coat from winter exposure.
Using an all-natural shampoo that properly cleans, followed by a moisturizing conditioner will help release the healthy oils back into their skin and coat.
PETS Picks: In our salon, we use a professional line of all natural shampoos and conditioners called Nature’s Specialties. They come in a variety of different kinds according to the specific pet coat type and skin care needs. One of our most popular specialty treatments is with the Sheazam Shea Butter Shampoo & Sheamora Shea Butter & Argan Oil Conditioner.
3- Proper Drying
Over bathing all breeds any time of year, particularly in the winter, can cause dry and flaky skin that contributes to a buildup of too much dander and a funky odor to their coat.
To prevent any skin irritations and/or coat conditions, make sure they are completely dry after bathing, and all moisture in the fur is blown out. With regards to matting, if a dog gets bathed or wet after the matting has begun, moisture to the fur only causes more mats that get tighter and therefore harder to remove.
PET’S Picks: A professional high velocity dryer is best for blowing out your pet’s coat, but for a fast and effective at-home dryer, we recommend the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer.
4- Brushing
For dogs with furry coat types, regular brushing is always recommended, especially during the winter. Brushing removes loose and dead hair, stimulates blood circulation and helps prevent matting. It also assists with de-shedding and keeps your dog’s skin and coat healthy. Without brushing, the undercoat of double-coated breed types can easily become impacted with excessive tangles.
PETS Picks: A good brush and comb are all you really need to keep your dog’s coat tangle and matt free. Our groomers recommend the following tools to aid in brushing at home:
Slicker Brush- Chris Christensen Big K Dog Slicker Brush for Dogs
5- Seasonal Considerations
The cold winter air dries out a dog’s skin and can even cause cracks in their paw pads. Using a paw balm after drying is a great way to keep their paws nourished.
CBD Balm and Oils can also be used to moisturize your pet’s paws and nose that may be more sensitive in the winter months.
PETS Picks: Penelope’s Bloom CBD Balm is beneficial for hydrating dry, cracked paws and skin, and provides a protective barrier against harsh conditions.
If the cold weather is keeping your pet indoors or from having less walks, regular nail trims can keep those claws less sharp and help prevent the quicks from becoming too long. Shorter quicks allow the nails to grow healthy and even helps your pet feel certain sensations better. At Pets On The Bay, we accept walk in and last-minute nail trim and buff appointments if our schedule permits.
Above all, during the winter season and all year round, keeping to a regular bathing and/or grooming routine is a must. Having good communication with your groomer is also vitally important in helping you keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy and maintained. Likety-Split!
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