Bringing your pet to a groomer is great, but the real magic happens in your home routine. Regular brushing, nail care and quick checks of skin, ears and teeth help prevent many common problems and make vet visits less stressful.
Why grooming matters for health, not just looks
Grooming removes loose hair, dirt and dead skin so the coat can breathe and the skin stays healthier.
It also gives you a built‑in “health scan” time to spot fleas, ticks, lumps, hot spots, ear infections or broken nails before they turn serious.
Step 1: Brushing basics for dogs and cats
• Short‑haired pets: Use a soft bristle or rubber brush a few times a week to remove loose hair and spread natural oils.
• Long‑haired pets: Use a slicker brush and comb, working in sections from the skin outward to prevent tangles and mats.
• Keep sessions short at first and reward with treats so your pet builds a positive association with grooming.
Signs you should see a groomer or vet include tight mats close to the skin, painful reactions when you brush, or red, irritated patches you uncover.
Step 2: Safe, stress‑free bath time
Most healthy indoor pets need full baths only occasionally, but outdoor or very active pets may need them more often.
Use a dog‑ or cat‑specific shampoo, lukewarm water and a non‑slip mat; rinse thoroughly so no residue is left on the skin, then towel‑dry and brush to prevent tangles.
If you see persistent itching, redness, strong odour or oily/flaky skin even after a good bath, that can signal allergies or infections that need a vet’s help rather than just more shampoo.
Step 3: Nail, paw and ear care
• Nails: Trim small amounts at a time using pet nail clippers, stopping before the pink “quick”; if you’re unsure, ask your vet or groomer to demonstrate once.
• Paws: Check between toes for cuts, thorns, stuck litter or small stones, and wipe paws after walks in hot, cold or dirty conditions.
• Ears: Gently wipe the visible part of the ear flap with a pet‑safe ear cleaner and cotton pad, never pushing cotton buds deep into the ear canal.
Contact your vet if you notice very bad smell, dark discharge, constant head‑shaking, limping, or nails curling into the paw pad.
Step 4: Make grooming part of your bonding ritual
Go slow, pair every step with praise and treats, and stop before your pet becomes overwhelmed.
A calm, consistent home grooming routine not only keeps your dog or cat healthier, it also builds trust—your pet learns that being handled is safe, and you earn the reputation of a caring, responsible pet parent.