If you have your dog groomed regularly, your pet will not only feel and look good, but you will also have a professional who may inspect your pet from head to tail. A good groomer is usually the first to detect the oncoming signs of an ear infection, skin problems, tooth problems and an array of all sorts of conditions that could grow into a life-threatening situation for your pet.
Along with having teeth brushed and ears cleaned, they will be brushed and bathed in products for their hair type. Your pet should have regular nail clippings. When nails are not clipped regularly they may overgrow and curl under. This could prevent the dog from placing their full bodyweight down, resulting in joint discomfort. Or worse, the nail may grow into the pad and become infected. When nails are overgrown, they must be trimmed back only to the quick (the vein) or they will bleed and cause the dog pain. Having the nails tipped every week will get them back to the right length.
Many people ask about expressing the anal glands. Groomers can tell you if they think the dog needs it, but this procedure should really be performed by a vet. If done improperly the glands could become damaged, have to be done more often or even become infected and require surgery. Most dogs never need it done or release them naturally.
For more information, please call A Dog’s life Grooming Salon and Spa at 661-259-8308.
