After a long summer in the woods, swimming on the beach or in lakes and rolling in the grass, many dogs suffer from skin, paw and ear irritation. Tangled hair, skin redness and ear infections can lead to serious problems if not treated promptly. Regular grooming is important for the health of the pet all year round, but dogs need extra attention this time of year to stay healthy and comfortable. Below are some tips.
1. Start with a deep brushing, carefully removing mats and tangles. A matte coat will cause skin problems, irritation and discomfort. If it's really bad, go to a dog salon.
2. Check for parasites. When brushing and combing, check the dog's skin for signs of fleas, ticks, and other parasites. Do not stop with prevention treatments; those pests will soon be looking for a place indoors before the cold weather arrives.
3. Shower the dog thoroughly with shampoo to remove dust, dirt, mold spores and parasites. Use a shampoo specifically formulated for the dogs skin. Follow with a conditioner; then rinse and dry the skin with a towel.
4. Do an ear check for problems that may be caused by the summer. If the ears have an odor or signs of redness, or if the pet is itchy, cleaning by a professional groomer or veterinarian is necessary.
5. Check the feet by looking between the toes. Redness and irritation can cause contact dermatitis or allergies from lawn chemicals, hot asphalt or grass seed – which require cleaning and handling. Nails and excess hair between the toes should be trimmed to avoid problems.
