Ask Ms. Stinky

9 Ways Grooming Promotes Better Health

1. Trimmed toenails have less of a chance of breaking.  In addition to being incredibly painful, broken nails open the door to infection.  Most cases of broken nails require veterinary attention.

2.  Trimmed toenails also prevent abnormal changes to a dog's toes and feet.  If the feet are not hitting the ground properly it affects a dogs ability to walk and stand.  Anytime a dog is not moving easily and comfortably it can lead to lameness and inflammation from arthritis.  Excessively long nails also tend to curve and grow back into a dog's foot pads.

3.  Mats prevent good airflow to the skin.  This leads to a buildup of moisture, debris, and even parasites and can cause skin infections.  Especially near a dog's bottom if waste matter builds up. 

4. Mat free coats allow you to find problems sooner.  It is easier to see abnormal growths or injuries on a groomed dog.  Grooming may not prevent an injury, bit it might show the owner something is wrong so it can be medially addressed before it gets bad.  

5.  Groomed bodes and feet keep active breed moving freely.  As an example, hunting dogs need unhindered motion in their legs and feet to prevent injuries while retrieving game on land and in water.

6.  Good ear monitoring prevents ear infections.  Non shedding breeds, such as Poodles, and some terriers, need to have hair inside the ears pulled out to prevent a breeding ground for infection.  At the same time, do not over clean a dog's ears unless it is needed.

7.  Cleared anal glands prevent blockage and infections.  Smaller dogs tend to require regular anal gland expression by a groomer or veterinarian.  Larger active dogs do  not usually need it.

8.  Regular bathing helps dogs and people with allergies.  You are not just getting them clean, but  you are washing off allergens.   Some dogs develop hot spots or other allergy-related skin problems no matter way you do, but regular bathing helps lower a dog's allergen burden.

9.  Regular tooth brushing helps prevent dental infections.  Dental infections affect the mouth and major organs including heart and kidneys.  Gently brush your dog's teeth for good oral hygiene.