As the temperatures climb, it’s crucial to ensure your pet stays cool and content throughout the summer season. Proper grooming is key in keeping your pet healthy and happy, especially when the weather gets hot. Here are some important tips for grooming your pet during the summer to help them stay cheerful, healthy, and chill.

1. Brushing

A simple yet effective way to keep your pet comfy in the summertime is by regularly brushing their fur. Whether your pet sports a short or long coat, brushing helps eliminate hair, dirt, and debris that can build up over time. For pets with longer hair, regular brushing also prevents tangles that can trap heat and lead to skin issues.

Summer often means increased shedding for pets, so upping the frequency of brushing can assist in managing this. If your dog or cat has an undercoat, using a shedding tool can help remove excess fur that may be causing discomfort. This not only helps keep your pet cooler but also decreases the amount of fur around your living space.

2. Appropriate Trimming

Although it may seem like a good idea to shave off your pet’s coat for cooling purposes, it’s essential to approach this with care. Pets rely on their fur as a shield against heat and sun damage. It’s important not to shave them as this can expose them to harmful UV rays and increase the risk of sunburn or skin cancer.

Instead of shaving, consider giving your pet a trim that maintains enough fur for protection while thinning out the coat. For breeds like poodles or terriers that need regular grooming, opt for a summer cut that’s shorter but still leaves some length. Seeking advice from a groomer can help you choose the best trimming approach for your pet’s specific breed.

3. Bathing

When it comes to bathing your pet in the summer, regular baths can help wash away sweat, dirt, and allergens that may irritate their skin. However, it’s essential not to overdo it. Excessive bathing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and potential skin problems.

Use a shampoo formulated for pets to keep their skin and coat hydrated. After bathing, make sure your pet is completely dry to prevent infections in warm weather. If your pet enjoys water, you can also use a damp cloth between baths to help them stay cool and clean.

4. Paw Care

Taking care of your pet’s paws is crucial during hot weather. Before heading out for a walk, make sure to check the pavement’s temperature – if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your pet’s paws. Opt for walks during the cooler parts of the day, like mornings or late evenings, to protect their delicate paws.

Besides adjusting walk times, you can safeguard your pet’s paws by using paw wax or getting them booties. Regularly inspect their paws for any signs of cracks, redness, or injuries. Trim the fur between their paw pads to prevent discomfort and matting.

5. Ear and Eye Care

During summer, pets are prone to ear and eye infections due to activities like swimming. Moisture from swimming can get trapped in their ears, leading to bacterial growth and infections. To prevent this, clean your pet’s ears with a vet-recommended cleaner regularly. Avoid using cotton swabs that could push debris further into the ear canal. For pets with longer hair around their ears, consider trimming it for better air circulation.

Ensuring eye care is just as essential. If your furry friend enjoys the outdoors, make sure to keep an eye on their eyes for any redness, discharge, or irritation. Dust, pollen, and dirt can lead to discomfort or infections, so gently clean your pet’s eyes with a damp cloth as needed.

6. Staying Hydrated and Cool

Staying hydrated and cool is key during the summer months. Always provide your pet with plenty of fresh water. Consider using a misting spray on their coat to help them stay refreshed and moisturized.

Offering a cooling mat or allowing your pet to relax in a shady spot during the hottest times of the day is also helpful. Avoid taking them out in extreme heat or leaving them alone in a parked vehicle.

It’s important to watch out for signs of heat-related stress in your pet, such as panting, excessive drooling, tiredness, or difficulty breathing. These could be indications of heatstroke, which requires immediate attention. If you notice any of these signs, make sure to move your pet to a cool spot, provide water, and reach out to your vet right away. Acting early can greatly improve your pet’s chances of recovery.

Taking care of your pet during the summer goes beyond making them look nice. It’s about keeping them comfortable and safe in the heat. Grooming, proper haircuts, gentle baths, and careful attention to their paws, ears, and eyes all play a role in keeping your pet healthy. By combining these grooming routines with plenty of water and watching out for signs of overheating, your pet can have a great time staying cool and comfy this summer.