It is Hot Outside! Should I Shave My Pet?

It is officially summer and temperatures are definitely reminding us of it. It is hotter than normal in Temecula Valley, and responsible pet parents are trying to do everything possible to make sure their four-legged family members stay cool and comfortable. When you look at dog’s or cat’s hair, you may feel the need to grab your grooming tools then commence with giving your friend a serious haircut.
Before you get underway, stop and don’t turn on those clippers. While neither you nor I would want to head outside sporting a thick fur coat in this hot 100-degree weather, your pets have fur coats that are designed to provide them with the relief from the heat that they need. According to ASPCA Animal Hospital Vice President Dr. Louise Murray, the coat of a dog works much like insulation works for a home. She explained that insulation works to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter and a dog’s coat works much the same way.
There are several layers to a dog’s coat. Each of these layers is essential to your dog maintaining comfort in the heat. If shave your dog, you are keeping him from having his own cooling system and that can cause him to be uncomfortable and suffer from overheating. Dr. Murray says that there are other reasons to keep your dog’s coat intact. It can prevent skin cancer and help your dog avoid being sun burned.
You are probably wondering what would be the best thing to do in this situation. You can give your long-haired pooch a summer haircut. Actually, trimming long hair can make it much more manageable and easier to control. When it comes to having a pet’s haircut, it is much better to entrust a professional groomer with the job. Don’t try to shave down to your pet’s skin or cut the hair close with scissors.
If you prefer long hair on your pet, well that is fine, too. Pets with thick coats naturally do some shedding in the warmer months which thins hair out. Regularly brush and bathe your pet, as hair that is clean and brushed enables better circulation of air through the dog’s hair. Always remember to provide your pet with lots of shade when he or she goes outside, and make sure he or she is adequately hydrated as plenty of water is essential.
If you want more tips about your dog’s hair, or to schedule an appointment for grooming in the area around Temecula, California, call It’s a Dog’s Life Mobile Pet Spaw at (855) 774-7729.