"Don't cats groom themselves?" People ask. While it is true that cats lick their fur to help keep it tidy, most cats do best when their owner helps them with coat maintenance. This is especially true for long-haired cats and older cats who may experience stiffness in their joints that inhibit their grooming habits. "What kind of brush is best for my cat?" You may wonder. The truth is the best way to remove shedding coat and prevent tangles fro …

It's summertime, and the livin' is easy. But often hot! How can we help keep our canine companions cool?People often wonder if clipping their dog's hair very short for summer is a good idea. In reality, a dog's fur coat, when properly cared for and kept free of mats and tangles, offers insulation from heat, sun, and insect bites. However, double-coated breeds, such as German Shepherds, Husky's, and Golden Retrievers, can run into trouble if their dense undercoat is not brushed out. Breeds with t …

Want to make grooming sessions go more smoothly and effectively? Follow these simple steps:Do choose the correct tools for the job. Quality grooming tools may cost a little more, but they are kind to skin and coats and will last for a long time when properly cared for. Do use shampoos and conditioners that are designed for pets. There are products available for every imaginable coat type and issue; let them help you achieve excellent results.Do read product labels and use as directed. …

When it comes to grooming tools, there are probably some you look at and think, "What are those for?" Stripping knives may fall into that category.Stripping knives are used mainly by groomers and exhibitors of harsh coated breeds (for example, Wire Haired Fox Terriers, Scottish Terriers, Bouvier des Flanders) and sporting breed dogs which are shown with a natural jacket, such as English Springer Spaniels, Irish Setters, and both American and English Cocker Spaniels. However, stripping and cardin …

Having groomed dogs and cats for 37 years, I have chosen grooming products that work well, and I tend to stick with those brands. However, I recently had an opportunity to try out some of the Hydra product line and received a nice sample pack.One of the samples was an odor-neutralizing shampoo. A Shih Tzu came in that smelled strongly of old ashtray. Its fur was coated with oily nicotine residue, and I knew from experience that this is an odor that is extremely difficult to r …