Everyone is suffering from COVID-hair, including our pets! If you are going to partake in any home grooming of your dog or cat, it is important that you follow a couple key tips. If you are ever in doubt, please reach out to your family veterinary practice. They will be more than willing to provide you with more information. 

When cutting hair, be very careful if you decide to use scissors or shears. I would strongly recommend against it as this is often the cause of severe cuts in the skin. Best practice indicates using electric clippers with a guard.

For nail trimming, be sure to stay clear of the vein or the quick in the toenail. The quick is the pink or red area, and it can be easily identified in white or light-colored nails. It is important to stand clear of that area as accidently cutting can cause bleeding and pain. If you happen to cut the nail too short, do not panic! It is uncomfortable and bleeds, but it is important to remain calm. You can apply corn starch or bar soap to the toenail with direct pressure. The bleeding should stop in a short period of time. If the bleeding does not stop, apply a bandage and then call your family veterinarian or the local animal emergency room for help.

Regular and routine grooming is very important for all animals. Such routine grooming includes brushing and wiping out your pet’s ears. Regular brushing helps eliminate dead skin and prevent matted fur. When fur becomes matted it is not only unsightly but also painful. The tight matts pull on the skin which results in pain and even skin sores/ulcerations.

Catskill Veterinary Services, PLLC
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