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This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
What is grooming?
Pet grooming comes from the term "groom," which means to care for and clean, and represents a set of systematic hygienic and aesthetic procedures aimed at maintaining the optimal physical condition and appearance of pets.
When we talk about grooming, many imagine just a haircut or brushing of fluffy pets. But it is much more than just "salon procedures" for our four-legged friends. Grooming is a comprehensive care routine that is essential for their health and comfort. From the tip of the nose to the pads of their paws, every step is important.
What procedures are included in grooming?
- Brushing
- Bathing
- Haircut and trimming
- Manicure
- Cleaning ears and eyes
- Teeth cleaning
Why is grooming important?
It's not just about aesthetics; it's primarily about physiology and prevention. An animal's coat is not just a covering; it is a true protective suit that regulates body temperature, protects against impacts, sunlight, and various microorganisms. Below, I will discuss the features of each procedure:
- Brushing removes dead skin cells and excess fur, preventing clogged pores and allowing the skin to "breathe." If this is not done, the skin's microflora may change, leading to dermatitis, fungi, and other issues.
- Tangled fur is not just "unattractive"; it is a real pain. Mats create an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply, cause irritation, and can lead to serious skin infections. For wire-haired breeds, such as terriers, there is a trimming procedure where dead hair is carefully plucked. Without this, they will simply be uncomfortable, as their fur does not shed on its own.
- Grooming allows for the timely detection of parasites (fleas, ticks, and others). This enables quick removal and prevents the transmission of diseases.
- Long nails hinder the animal's ability to walk normally, can cause pain, alter their gait, and potentially lead to joint problems in the future.
- Ear cleaning helps avoid inflammation, while eye care prevents irritation.
- One of the most important aspects is healthy teeth. Plaque and tartar are not only about bad breath but also about a source of bacteria that can enter the bloodstream and harm the heart, kidneys, and other internal organs.
Grooming can be categorized into two types:1) at-home grooming;2) professional grooming at specialized salons.
What are the differences, and is it worth paying extra for salon visits?
At-home Grooming VS Professional Grooming: Advantages and Disadvantages
At-home grooming:
The obvious advantage of self-grooming is cost savings, as expenses are limited to purchasing the necessary tools and cosmetics, which is more economical in the long run compared to regular salon visits. However, grooming requires knowledge and skills, as without them, it is easy to cause discomfort and harm to the pet, and it requires initial investments in quality tools. It is also a time-consuming and effort-intensive process, especially for large or long-haired breeds, and can be stressful for the animal if the owner lacks experience.
Professional grooming:
Turning to a grooming salon has significant advantages. By entrusting your pet to experienced hands, you can be confident that the groomer will perform everything quickly and safely, minimizing stress for your pet. Good salons are equipped with professional equipment, specialists have knowledge and experience in their field, and possess the correct techniques. Professionals can often detect hidden health problems early that the owner may not have noticed in their fluffy friend. This also relieves the owner of the burden, saving their time and effort. However, the cost of professional services can be substantial, especially for large breeds. It is better to choose reputable salons with good reviews to avoid unqualified masters.
In summary, it is not necessary to spend money on salon visits to care for your four-legged friend. If you have enough free time and willingness, you can easily give your pet the attention it needs at home, but if you prefer to trust this work to professionals, be careful when choosing a grooming salon.
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