cat and dog skin and coat care

Every pet is different! Although the general rule for dogs is every two to three months, it can help to check with your vet. We can recommend how often your pet could use a bath and even recommend shampoo types for their skin and coat.

Generally speaking, muddy or dirty pets need a good rinsing (with or without shampoo). After that, how often your pet should be bathed will depend on things like their species, breed, size, hair type, and how tolerant you are of pet smells, hair, and dander.

You may have heard that giving cats tuna water and mixing fish oil or raw eggs into a dog’s meal will give them a shinier coat. While your pet will probably enjoy these treats, they’re messy and won’t always help their coat. Raw eggs in particular carry a health risk from bacteria.

Instead, ask your vet about trusted supplements that have documented results to improve shine. Some common internet wisdom can actually be dangerous, so please ask first. We’re a great resource before adding any supplement to your pet’s diet.

There are a number of reasons that pet nails start to look strange. Any change in appearance is worth mentioning to your vet.

Keep your pet away from common triggers like freshly cut grass, pine straw, and mulches. Plus, many of the things we do for human allergies can help pets as well.

• Using HEPA air filters to help reduce pollen and dust mites
• Regular vacuuming and dusting
• Washing their bedding with hypoallergenic laundry detergents
• Reducing or eliminating fragrances from spray air fresheners, essential oil diffusers, incense, and cigarette smoke

Many essential oils are dangerous for pets (the ones used in commercial products are often incredibly diluted). Your vet is happy to answer questions about any specific product. Bring the package in so we can discuss your goals in using it, plus help identify any hidden dangers in the ingredients.

Breeds with a “hypoallergenic” coat are reputed to shed less. This means that they spread less dander, which is actually what often triggers pet allergies in human beings

However, being hypoallergenic doesn’t mean that the pet doesn’t have allergies of their own! They are just as likely to suffer from their own allergies as other breeds.

Caring for your pet’s skin and coat includes a regular high-quality diet (in the proper serving size), prescription parasite control, baths (as recommended by your vet), and regular coat brushing.