The winter has its benefits for people and their pets, but it is not kind to skin and hair. The cold temperatures and the dry indoor air zap moisture, which can wreak havoc on your pet’s coat and irritate skin. Luckily, the team at Union Lake Pet Services has 6 pet coat and skin care tips for winter to help prevent dry skin and shedding.
1. Brush Often and Well
Your number one tool for helping your pet’s coat during the winter is a grooming brush. Use a soft-bristle brush to keep the hair free from tangles (and to loosen hair that has shed). It is important to avoid letting mats develop in your pet’s coat, especially during the winter. If mats are present, they can trap moisture and make your pet more susceptible to developing bacteria that could lead to irritation. Regular brushing will also help move your pet’s natural oils around, keeping the coat and the skin moisturized.
2. Don’t Bathe Too Often
It might seem counterintuitive, but bathing too frequently in the winter can strip the coat of necessary moisture. Bathe your pet less frequently than you do in other seasons, and be sure to use a moisturizing shampoo/conditioner that is safe for pets when you do bathe them. You might want to consider working with a professional groomer to keep your pet on the best bathing schedule for winter.
3. Pay Special Attention to the Paws
Pet paws are more susceptible to damage from the elements in the winter—especially for pets that spend time outside. Paw care can help you prevent dry, cracked paws. Use a paw balm and pet booties before going outside to keep them warm and dry. After returning from a walk, be sure to clean off the paws to remove any snow, dirt, or salt. Keeping the paws clean and moisturized can prevent uncomfortable cracking and possible infection.
4. Think About Food
Your pet’s diet can have a big impact on his or her coat. A well-balanced diet (with plenty of fatty acids) will help keep the coat healthy and shiny, even during the winter. Talk to your veterinarian about the best kind of food for your pet in his or her current life stage.
5. Focus on Hydration
Staying hydrated will help your pets maintain healthy skin and fur throughout the winter. Set up a few different water bowls in your house to ensure they always have water when thirsty. A moving fountain can be helpful to entice pets who are usually not very interested in drinking.
6. Turn to the Professionals
Professional groomers know how to properly care for a pet’s skin and coat during the winter. They can keep the coat clean and shiny all winter long. With professional-grade products, professional groomers can be proactive about winter coat and skin care.
We hope our tips for pet coat care tips for winter help you and your pet make it through winter more comfortably and with less cracking, flaking, and irritation.
Union Lake Pet Services makes it easy to get the grooming and boarding services you need for your pets throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for regular grooming services or want to look into pet care options, we are here for you. To learn more about our services, please call (248) 363-6262.