Grooming is an important part of keeping your pet healthy.  Brushing/combing stimulates circulation, removes loose hair that can end up on furniture and clothing or in the stomach as hairballs.  It prevents matting that not only looks bad, but is irritating to the skin.  They can be itchy and even lead to infection.  Grooming is also important because it makes you pay attention to any changes of the body (new lumps, ticks, fleas, etc.).  Last but not least, you spend quality time with your pet. 

It's best to get your pet used to grooming as a puppy or kitten.  Always make it a positive experience, giving lots of praise and treats.  Establish a routine, the more you do it, the faster your pet will get used to it.  Whether your pet is young or old, follow these tips to get your pet to enjoy (or tolerate) grooming.  You may want to cut your cat's nails as a first step, in case he gets mad at you!  I'll explain nail trims below. 

Start when your pet is relaxed and just start petting, stroking, and talking gently.  Start running your fingers through the fur, like a comb.  Some knots can be untangled with your fingers.  Next, introduce the comb itself, while still petting with your hand. A simple metal comb is the best tool.  Keep these sessions short, trying to end before your pet gets irritated.  Give yummy treats that she only gets when you groom her. 

For big mats, be gentle and take your time working them out.  Most pets hate grooming because they associate it with the pain of pulling their hair.  Think about if you have a knot in your hair.  If you can, hold the mat close to the skin while you work on untangling it, to reduce pulling on the skin.  DO NOT EVER USE SCISSORS TO CUT OUT MATS!!  When they are close to the skin, it is very difficult to tell where fur ends and skin begins!  Cat skin is extremely delicate and easy to cut.  If the mat is very close to the skin, you may need to bring your pet to a groomer or to us so we can shave it out. 

Okay, nail trims.  Many people don't know it's necessary.  Many people are nervous to do this themselves.  Nails that get too long are more liable to break, often near the base, which is very painful and they bleed all over the place.  Don't let that happen!  Trimming nails is easy, and the more you do it, the more comfortable you will be with it. 

There are many types of trimmers, some are like scissors, some are guillotine-type, you can even use human nail trimmers on cats and puppies.  Use whatever you feel most comfortable with - I personally like the orange clippers for most animals.

Dogs and cats have the same basic anatomy.  There is a blood vessel (the quick), surrounded by the nail sheath.  Cats are easy because their nails are clear and you can see the quick.  Just take the tips off and stay away from the pink and you'll be fine. 

Some dogs also have clear nails.  The black nails are the tricky ones, but there are some signs that you are getting close to the quick.  Always go slow and take off a little at a time, even with clear nails.  As you get closer to the quick, the nail gets slightly softer.  Also, you'll see a black spot in the nail (see picture to the right).

If you do accidentally get the quick, don't worry!  Your dog will forgive you, and we've all done it, even the professionals.  Every dog has different nails, and some don't follow the rules.  Just have some styptic powder on hand (picture at right).  Dab a little on the end of the nail, and bleeding should stop. 

If you still don't want to trim your pet's nails, you can always have us do it, or give you tips on how to do it.  We're always happy to help you!