|
Grooming
The
foundation of good grooming is brushing
and combing, which loosens and removes the
dirt, dead hair, and skin cells. Brushing
and combing also distributes natural oils from
the skin through the coat, which prevents
tangling and mats. Also, daily brushing
and combing, especially during the shedding
season can help keep loose hair to a
minimum. Be sure you brush and comb
down to the skin, and not just over the
surface! Make sure not to skip the stomach
area. Brushing several times a
week keeps your dog neat and clean, gives
extra cuddle time and attention, and helps
you to notice anything out-of-the-ordinary with
your pet's skin and coat. Most pets come
to enjoy this extra-special time with their
owner!
However, nail
trimming usually involves a bit more protest by
the dog. With proper care and early
training however, this task can be accomplished
with minimal risk of trauma. A dog's nails
should be trimmed so they just clear the
floor. If you hear clicking when your pet
is walking around, it's time to trim those
toenails!
Pick up the paw and
firmly, but gently, place your thumb on the pad
of a toe, and your forefinger on top of the toe,
on the skin above the nail. Push your
thumb slightly up and backward on the pad while
pushing your forefinger forward. This will
extend the toenail.
Using your other
hand, clip only the tip, straight across.
-
Avoid clipping past
the curve of the nail, or you risk hitting the
"quick". A nick there is painful and will
cause bleeding. It's harder to see the
quick on dark nails, so clip only the hooklike
part of the nail that turns down.
Examine the paw pads for
objects or injury. In the winter, be sure
to clean your dog's feet after he has gone
outdoors, this will remove the de-icing
chemicals, salt, snow, and ice, which can injure
his feet or even make your dog sick if he licks
his paws. With the right
equipment and some patience, proper and thorough
grooming will have your puppy looking like a
Best In Show winner!
|
