Summer surely can’t be the breezy, carefree season for dogs that we think it is. Not only do they have to sweat through their tongues, but to combat the heat, they also have to shed hair. Lots of it. Those of you who keep your pets indoors will know all about this. Hair on the sofa, the rugs, the carpets, the curtains. Then there are the statically charged hairs that simply refuse to be brushed off clothing or linen. It’s unpleasant for our dogs, and even less pleasant for their owners.
So how can you get rid of the hair and fuss while holding on to your loveable old mut
Naturally, the more hair you remove, the less you will see around your house. Brushing your dog once a day will greatly reduce the amount of unwanted hair sticking to your clothes, carpet and furniture. However, as some pets may not take too kindly to the idea of being brushed, it may not always be as simple as that. A course in Dog Grooming will teach you about the most effective dog grooming procedures, including correct handling, clipping, cleaning, dematting (getting rid of ticks, fleas and lice) and bathing.
And as our pets often have physical problems which may cause large, abnormal amounts of shedding – such as ringworm, infection, stress and mange – a dog grooming course will teach you to identify and address these issues before its too late.
In the meantime, however, here are a few tips to help keep your pet (and your home) relatively presentable:
Diet
Dogs need to have a healthy diet. Foods comprising premium protein are absorbed more easily, meaning that your dog will absorb better nutrition.
Add Omega-3 Oils to Meals
A dog with dry skin is liable to shed more than one with healthy skin. Omega-3 oil can reduce skin inflammation (so less scratching too), skin dryness and improve the overall texture of your pet’s coat.
Regular Brushing and Baths
Loose hair needs to be brushed out. There are specific brushes and rakes available for grooming away a dog’s loose undercoat fur.
Baths are another way of removing loose hair. While the tub may be filled with dog hairs afterwards, at least your living room won’t be. However, note that over-bathing a dog can dry your pet’s skin out.
