Grooming Your Furry Friend for Winters
Winter is coming, and so is the need for extra warmth and under the mistletoe moist kisses for your furry friend! Brace yourself and your furry friend for the winter season with these helpful grooming tips.
– by Divya Punjabi
As a professional pet groomer at Zane’s Pet Spa, I’ve seen firsthand how a little extra care can go a long way in keeping your pet cozy and comfortable during the colder months.
Here are a few tips to keep your pup looking paw-sitively fabulous and feeling warm and fuzzy all winter.
Celebrating winter warmth with a snug coat
- A Thick Coat = A Happy Pet: A light brushing for breeds with thick coats can help remove dead hair and prevent matting. Make sure you make brushing a part of their daily grooming routine.
- Thin-Coated Pals: For breeds with thin coats, consider a warm sweater or coat to keep them cozy, especially in colder regions like north India.
Paw-sitive protection
Icy Paws, No More. Apply a paw balm to protect your pet’s paws from cracks and dry skin. Trimming the fur is also essential and don’t forget to do so in the winter months as well. Keeping the hair between his paw pads trimmed prevents dirt and grime buildup.
Ear Care, winter style
Regularly clean your furry friend’s ears to prevent infections. Keep them dry and clean at all times. After a walk in the cold, make sure to dry his ears thoroughly with a soft cotton pad or cloth to prevent moisture buildup.
From fluff to fresh – making winter bath time fun
While regular baths are important for your pet’s skin health and overall wellness, reduce the frequency during winter to avoid drying out his skin.
Always use a gentle shampoo to keep his skin hydrated and moisturized. If your pet has a specific skin condition, ask your vet to recommend a shampoo for your furry friend.
All hail hydration
Ensure that your pet pup has access to fresh, clean water at all times so that he doesn’t get dehydrated in winter. The water intake can get affected due to the drop in temperature, so you can consider adding a little warm broth to his water bowl for extra warmth and flavor.
Cozy snuggles all the way
Provide a cozy, warm bed for your furry friend to snuggle up. Make sure you air the bedding every 1-2 days to avoid bacteria build-up. Keep him entertained with indoor games and puzzles to help him stay active and happy!
Indoor Grooming: A Winter Wonderland for Your Furry Friend
Winter is the perfect excuse to pamper your pet with an at-home spa day! While professional grooming is fantastic, sometimes a cozy indoor session can be just as rewarding.
Setting the stage
- Choose a warm, well-lit spot with minimal distractions.
- Have your grooming tools ready: a soft brush, a comb, nail clippers, shampoo, conditioner, towels, and treats.
- Play soft music or nature sounds to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Trust the process
- Start by gently brushing your pet’s coat to remove dead hair and tangles.
- Use lukewarm water and a gentle, pet-friendly shampoo.
- Make sure to massage the shampoo well (avoid the eyes and ears) and gently rinse off all the shampoo.
- Apply a conditioner to keep your pet’s coat moisturized and soft.
- Use a micro-fiber towel to gently pat dry and then use a low-heat dryer to finish the job.
- Trim his nails carefully (if you cannot do this at home, visit a professional groomer).
- Clean his ears with a pet-safe ear cleaner.
- Gently brush his teeth with a pet-friendly toothpaste.
Tips for a stress-free grooming session
- Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise to reward good behavior.
- Short and Sweet: Break up the grooming session into shorter, more frequent intervals.
- Patience is Key: Be patient and gentle, especially if your pet is nervous.
- Professional Help: If you’re unsure about any grooming techniques, consult a professional groomer.
By following these simple tips, you can help your furry friend stay happy, healthy, and well-groomed all winter long. So, bundle up and enjoy the winter wonderland together.
Happy Grooming!
(Zane’s Pet Spa, is a special pet corner in itself where you and your pet can enjoy‘spa + café’ together in Mumbai)