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When that cute little puppy arrived at your home, you probably went to the pet store and bought a
new dish, pet, collar, and, maybe, a brush and a comb. Although the bed and dish are still in
use, the brush and comb are probably gathering dust in the closet. It may not be your fault that
your first attempts at brushing and combing were unsuccessful. It could be that you didn't,t know
the fine points of handling your pet during brushing, or that you purchased the wrong equipment.

Poor equipment is often the reason pet owners fail to give their pets once or twice weekly
brushing. A slicker brush is needed for basic grooming. These brushes contain hundreds of
short bent wires mounted in a firm rubber backing. A good quality brush will not hurt your pet.
Another essential piece of equipment is the comb. A solid metal comb with combination coarse
and medium teeth will do nicely. Buy your equipment from a pet care professional.

Brushing is essential to a healthy, glowing coat. It eliminates mats and tangles, removes dead
hair,dirt, and burrs and distributes the healthy oils.

Where should you work on your pet? An old table or the top of your washer or dryer will offer a
solid surface and a comfortable work height for you. A bath mat provides a non-slip surface for
your pet. Plus, it resembles the conditions your pet encounters in the grooming shop.

You must have a serious attitude while working on your pet. A firm "NO" should suffice when
your pet bites at the brush or comb. Begin by working in one ares. Don't allow your pet to twist
and turn. Your pet will definitely win at that game. Firmness counts.

Take your pet's head in your hand and begin by gently, but thoroughly, combing the whiskers,
ears, and head. Look your pet in the eye and say a firm"NO" if he begins to misbehave. You can
gain rapport with your pet that will last through the grooming session.

Next, move to the legs. They are probably the most neglected part of the home grooming
process. Alternate the brush and comb operation so you can locate the little snarls that quickly
become big ones. Brush up and down, but work in small sections and work down the the skin.
A serious fault of pet owner grooming is overworking the top coat and neglecting the hair
nearest the skin.

Poor coat condition usually results in a shorter clip on your pet and a larger grooming bill. If you
find that you just don't have the time or desire to brush your pet, more frequent professional
grooming is recommended to prevent matting and tangling. A shorter, more manageable clip
on your pet may be another alternative. Your pet care professional will be able to assist you in
making the best decision for you and your pet.




CONTENT © 2006 - Tails A Waggin