Owning a cat or a dog comes with several responsibilities. Not only do they need to be fed, but they need exercise, veterinary care, and grooming. Both cats and dogs require grooming at some level. While there are dog breeds that have specific standards when it comes to grooming, those that do not require at least a bath and a brush out on a regular basis.
Depending on the needs of the pet, there are different levels of pet grooming services. The basic level includes a bath along with a nail trim, ear cleaning, and a brushing. Even dogs that have short hair can benefit from the basic service. Some people may think that this level of grooming can be done at home, but what may be overlooked with a home grooming are the special needs of the breed in terms of shampoo and trimming.
The next level of service may include extra trimming of the face, ears, and paws. Dogs that have medium to long hair are best suited for this level of grooming. Trimming of the hair between the paw pads is important because when dogs go outside, burrs, fox-tails, and other sharp objects can attach themselves to the hair between the paws. This can cause pain and discomfort, and in some cases, can lead to infection. A professional who is trained in dog grooming can properly trim the paw pads in an effort to reduce the risks of the dog picking up any foreign objects. Some breeds may require even more grooming that will keep their fur styled according to their breed standard. For example, poodles have a distinct hairstyle that can only be done properly by a professional.
When most people think of grooming a pet, they think of dogs. There are also several professionals trained in cat grooming. Cats need grooming to keep their coats free of mats, and to keep their nails and paws trimmed. Much like dogs, some cat breeds require a specific hairstyle that is best done by a professional. In general, cats can be difficult to groom since most are not fond of water, but professional cat groomers have methods that allow them to bathe, brush and trim the cat.
Having your pet professionally groomed not only makes your pet feel better, but it also provides you with peace of mind knowing that your pet is receiving quality care.
