Why Regular Pet Grooming Is More Important Than You Think[clear] From the way that our furry family members snuggle into our laps, sneak us cold-nosed kisses, and twine around our legs, it certainly appears that the relationship between pets and people is one of mutual adoration. Our cats and dogs are pros at sharing their feelings with us, so to return the favor, one of the most helpful ways to demonstrate our love for them is to keep them looking fantastic and feeling their very best. Although the phrase ‘pet grooming’ may bring a picture of a manicured and pampered poodle into your mind, many pet lovers actually underestimate the true importance of keeping their cat and dog friends well-groomed – there are far more benefits to pet pampering than making them look lovely! Caring regularly for your pet’s coat, ears, nails and teeth can be an important part of detecting, and yes, even preventing some common medical problems, believe it or not. Cats and dogs often have very different needs when it comes to bathing, brushing and trimming. Our canine companions tend to joyfully gravitate towards muck, mud, and smelly substances, so they often need more frequent grooming care to remove dirt, tangles and dead hair. Cats are more fastidious creatures, but long-haired felines and outdoor cats may still need a helping paw with their hygiene routine! Keeping your pet’s coat clean, brushed and free of mats helps them to regulate their body temperature more efficiently. Cared-for skin and fur allow your pet to move around freely and comfortably, too (a particularly important benefit for our senior furry friends). Your pet’s teeth, nails and ears also need regular TLC, so don’t forget to include them into your grooming routine. Smelly, red ears or dark discharge might be a sign that your four-legged friend needs some medical attention, while overgrown nails can cause discomfort and posture changes for your pet as they walk. Finally, changes in your pet’s skin and coat condition are usually signals that something’s just not right with your dog or cat, and grooming sessions are often when skin lumps, joint pain, or other problems are noticed. For owners that have a hard time keeping on top of their pet’s care, or who don’t want to deal with the fuss and muss themselves, a professional groomer is the best resource for keeping your furry family members in top shape from nose to tail. Mobile grooming services like the one we provide for our clients here at Wagging Tails are highly requested by our clients, since we can accommodate their busy schedules and special requests as needed. Did you know that we provide clipping, furminator de-shedding, coat & skin remoisturizing treatments, de-skunking, and flea baths? This convenient and close-to-home option is also perfect for anxious dogs and cats – they can relax in experienced hands during their grooming sessions without the stress of a car ride, cage, or other noisy pets in the salon. Regular grooming is vital for your pet’s good health, and caring for your pet’s outward appearance is our pleasure!