With the arrival of fall, it’s time to prepare your home for chilly weather, switch to snow tires, and get out the heavy coats and boots. But it’s important not to neglect preparations for your pet. As the weather changes, so does your pet’s coat, and how you approach pet grooming should be adjusted as well. The pet care experts at Shar-Jo's Pet Styling & In-Home Pet Sitting in Milford, OH, have a few tips to help you “winterize” your companion’s fur coat to ensure it stays healthy and beautiful all season long.

4 Tips for Winterizing Your Pet’s Coat

1. Brush & Comb Regularly

Your pet’s fur should be brushed at least once per week. Take care to remove the undercoat by brushing against the grain. If the hair is allowed to become too thick, dirt and bacteria can get trapped, causing irritation and other skin problems. Your groomer can recommend the best combs and tools for your dog or cat breed.

2. Treat Dry Skin

Our pets are just like us—they also get dry skin in winter. To ward off itchy, flaky skin, use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, sprays, or wraps. Bathing too frequently can contribute to dry skin, so give your dog a wash only about every six to eight weeks. If your pet has a dry, cracked nose, try a healing balm. Most of all, maintain regular pet grooming appointments so that a professional can keep an eye on the health of your pet’s fur and skin.

3. Keep Fur & Nails Trimmed 

Your pet’s coat will naturally grow longer in the winter, so keep it trimmed and neat to avoid matted fur. Don’t neglect the hair that grows between toes and on the paw pads, since it can trap mud and snow. If you use booties to protect your dog’s feet from snow and ice, it’s especially important to trim their nails every two weeks or so. Many pet grooming locations offer convenient, quick trim services.

4. Add Extra Protection From the Cold

Just because your pet has a fur coat doesn’t mean they can’t feel the cold. When the weather’s especially harsh, add an extra layer of protection with a vest, sweater, or pet jacket. Make sure to thoroughly brush your pet’s coat after these layers are removed.

Take care of your pet’s coat this winter by establishing an excellent pet grooming regimen, including regular appointments with a professional groomer. The experienced team at Shar-Jo's Pet Styling & In-Home Pet Sitting is renowned for the high level of kindness and care they provide to your furry friends. By offering a wide array of grooming and pet sitting services, they have you covered for the entire season. To make an appointment, call (513) 831-9457 today or visit their website to read more.