Summer Pet Grooming Tips

Summer brings sunshine, warmth, and outdoor adventures, but it also poses unique grooming challenges for pet owners. Here are some essential summer grooming tips to keep your furry friend comfortable and healthy during the hottest months.

1. Regular Brushing

• Time Interval: Brush at least 3 times a week, more frequently during shedding seasons.
• Do: Use a brush suited to your pet’s coat type and gently remove loose fur to reduce heat retention.
• Don’t: Over-brush, which can cause skin irritation, or neglect brushing, which can lead to matting.

Regular brushing prevents mats and tangles that trap heat and cause discomfort. For pets with double coats, brushing helps maintain their natural insulation. Short-haired breeds like Beagles and Boxers benefit from brushing once or twice a week, while long-haired breeds like Golden Retrievers and Yorkshire Terriers require more frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangling.

2. Trim (But Don’t Shave)

• Time Interval: Every 4-6 weeks, depending on the breed and coat length.
• Do: Trim around the paws and ears for neatness and consult a professional groomer if needed.
• Don’t: Shave your pet's coat too short or completely, which can cause sunburn or skin irritation.

Instead of shaving your pet, consider a trim to shorten the coat to a manageable length while still providing protection. Breeds like Poodles and Portuguese Water Dogs benefit from professional grooming, while Golden Retrievers can be trimmed around the paws and ears for neatness. Shaving can strip away natural insulation and expose your pet to sunburn or skin irritation, so it's better to consult a professional groomer to achieve the desired length.

3. Bathing and Ear Cleaning

• Time Interval: Bathe every 4-6 weeks, or more often if your pet is very active. Clean ears weekly.
• Do: Use mild, pet-safe shampoo and dry your pet thoroughly after each bath. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner.
• Don’t: Use human shampoo, which can irritate the skin, or insert cotton swabs into your pet’s ears.

Bathing more frequently during summer helps remove sweat, oils, and dirt that accumulate during outdoor activities. Use a mild, pet-safe shampoo to avoid stripping the natural oils that protect your pet’s coat. Dry them thoroughly after each bath to prevent fungal infections and hot spots. Clean their ears regularly using a vet-approved ear cleaner, and avoid using cotton swabs which can push debris further into the ear canal. Instead, use a soft cloth or gauze to gently wipe the outer ear.

4. Hydration and Skin Care

• Time Interval: Provide fresh water daily and adjust your pet’s diet seasonally for hydration.
• Do: Include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in their diet and monitor hydration levels daily.
• Don’t: Let your pet drink from unknown water sources that may contain contaminants.

Ensure your pet stays hydrated by providing fresh water at all times. Dehydration can affect their skin and coat, leading to dryness and flaking. Include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in their diet to promote a healthy coat and prevent skin issues. Foods like salmon, sardines, flaxseed oil, and chia seeds are rich in omega-3s, while poultry fat, sunflower oil, corn oil, and eggs are good sources of omega-6s. Always consult your veterinarian before adding new foods or supplements to your pet's diet to ensure proper nutrient balance.

5. Sunscreen for Pets

• Time Interval: Apply sunscreen every 2-3 hours while outdoors, especially if your pet swims.
• Do: Use pet-safe sunscreen on their nose, ears, and other exposed areas when outdoors.
• Don’t: Use human sunscreen, which can contain chemicals harmful to pets.

Pets with light-colored fur or exposed skin are prone to sunburn. Use pet-safe sunscreen on their nose, ears, and other exposed areas when they’re outdoors. Avoid human sunscreens, which can contain chemicals harmful to pets. Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially if your pet swims or spends extended periods outdoors. Protecting them from harmful UV rays is essential to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

6. Travel Tips, Tick & Flea Prevention

• Time Interval: Check for ticks and fleas after each outdoor activity and use preventatives monthly.
• Do: Plan frequent travel breaks and ensure adequate ventilation in cars and RVs.
• Don’t: Leave your pet unattended in a car, neglect flea and tick preventatives, or skip hydration.

Traveling with pets requires precautions, especially in summer heat:

• In Cars: Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Ensure air conditioning is on, and take frequent breaks to let them stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.
• In RVs: Keep your pet's comfort in mind, maintaining a stable temperature inside the RV. Use pet temperature monitors and ensure they have a safe, shaded area.
• While Hiking: Bring enough water for you and your pet. Avoid trails with hot sand or sharp rocks, and keep an eye on your dog's stamina to prevent overheating. Protect their paws with booties, if necessary.

Use vet-recommended tick and flea preventatives and inspect your pet regularly for signs of infestation. Brush your pet’s fur thoroughly to remove pests, and regularly wash their bedding to minimize infestation risk.

7. Regular Vet Visits

• Time Interval: Schedule a check-up at least once a year, or more frequently for senior pets.
• Do: Seek your vet’s advice on grooming and dietary needs for summer.
• Don’t: Delay vet visits if your pet shows signs of discomfort or illness.

Schedule regular vet visits for check-ups and grooming advice tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Your vet can provide insights into the best grooming routine, diet, and products for your pet’s breed and lifestyle. They can also detect and address any early signs of heat-related illnesses, skin conditions, or other health issues that can be exacerbated by the summer heat. Regular visits ensure your pet remains healthy and happy throughout the season.

Summer is a wonderful time to bond with your pet outdoors, but it's crucial to prioritize their grooming and health. Regular brushing, trimming, and bathing keep them comfortable, while proper hydration and nutrition ensure a healthy coat. Apply pet-safe sunscreen, take travel precautions, and use tick and flea preventatives to protect them from summer hazards. Regular vet visits will help keep your pet in top shape. By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for your furry friend.