When the weather outside is frightful, your canine companions are most likely spending a lot more time indoors.  It might seem that pet grooming is not necessary during the chillier winter months because pets are not as active, or because a longer coat will help keep them warm.. However, it is essential to keep up your pet’s regular grooming routine.  Winter grooming plays an important role in your pet’s health, safety, and protection from the cold.

Pet Grooming To Protect Coat and Skin

It is a myth that less frequent brushing helps to keep a winter coat thicker.  In fact, a groomed coat provides better insulation for your pet.  Although it is most effective to begin preparation for the shedding season and re-growth of the winter coat in the fall, getting started now will still make a huge difference for you, your clothes, your furniture, and your pet.

Both longhaired and shorthaired dogs should be brushed a minimum of three times per week.  This attention should keep the coat detangled and eliminate matted fur, which can attract more debris.  Choose a gentle de-shedding brush to avoid irritating the skin.  Brushing, along with the use of a good oatmeal-based shampoo and conditioner, can also help eliminate dryness and itching during the winter months.  Short coats tend to shed more frequently in the winter, and brushing can help manage shedding and remove debris carried in from the outdoors.  If anyone in your home suffers from allergies, this is an especially important routine to keep up during the winter.  Not only will this help keep your carpets clean, it will also help improve air quality of your home. 

Pet Grooming To Maintain Feet and Nails

Even though your pet may not spend as much time outside in the winter, caring for your pet’s feet should still be a priority. When your pet comes in after venturing outside, wipe his or her feet thoroughly to clean off any ice or chemicals.

Your pet’s nails will not wear down as much on the ice and snow; however it is still important to trim nails and hair around the feet and paw pads.  Ensure that the nails are kept long enough to touch the floor so your pet can improve control on ice and snow.

Pet grooming can significantly improve the welfare of your pet during the winter season.  Although we can easily get distracted with other priorities, it is important to your pet’s wellbeing to maintain proper winter grooming.  By following these valuable tips, your pet can enjoy the winter season with improved comfort indoors and outdoors.

Eric Abbey