“Vet Reveals Physical and Behavioral Signs Indicating Your Pet Needs a Spa Day”

Just like humans, dogs benefit from a day of relaxation and pampering, and a professional spa can provide them with the care and attention they need to stay healthy and happy. However, knowing when your dog needs a spa day can sometimes be tricky. Here are some physical and behavioral signs that your dog might be in need of a grooming session:

In a recent interview, Dr. Deepak Saraswat, the head veterinarian at Zigly, shared valuable insights for pet parents on how to recognize when their pets need a professional grooming spa day. According to Dr. Saraswat, several signs, both physical and behavioral, can indicate that it’s time for your furry friend to enjoy a pampering session. Here are some key takeaways:

Physical signs

Under physical signs, Dr. Saraswat highlights two key physical changes that signal when your dog may need a spa day:

1. Skin Conditions

If your pet is suffering from skin irritation, dryness, rashes, or any visible signs of discomfort like itching or redness, it’s time to consider a professional grooming session. A spa treatment can provide targeted care to address these issues, offering soothing products and therapies that promote healthy skin.

2. Changes in Coat Health & Hair Loss

Dr. Saraswat emphasized that a change in the texture of your dog’s coat or noticeable hair loss are signs that professional grooming is needed. Whether it’s dull fur, excessive shedding, or thinning hair, a grooming spa can restore the health of your pet’s coat and address shedding concerns. Proper grooming treatments help maintain the coat’s luster and strength, ensuring your dog looks and feels great.

These specialized grooming services not only improve the appearance of your dog but also promote their overall comfort and health.

Behavioural signs

Other than physical signs, a pet’s behavior can also indicate discomfort and the need for specialized grooming care. Scratching and licking are two common behavioral signs to watch out for.

Dr. Saraswat said, “If your pet scratches or licks specific areas persistently, it could indicate irritation, allergies, or even the presence of parasites. Over-grooming that leads to visible redness or fur loss also warrants specialized grooming or medical attention.”

While normal grooming is common, if your pet repeatedly grooms one spot, seems to be in pain while grooming, or has noticeable skin damage, it could be a sign that they are uncomfortable. In such cases, professional care is necessary to provide relief, address underlying issues, and restore their well-being. Specialized grooming can help detect and address problems like allergies, irritations, or infections that require more attention than regular grooming.

Frequency based on breed, coat type

Each pet has unique grooming needs based on their coat type and breed. Dr. Saraswat explained, “Long-haired breeds may require grooming every 4-6 weeks, while short-haired breeds can go 6-8 weeks. Active pets or those prone to matting may need more frequent care.”

It’s essential for pet parents to consider their pet’s specific coat type and activity level when determining the grooming schedule. Long-haired breeds, like Shih Tzus or Afghan Hounds, can develop mats and tangles, which can cause discomfort if not regularly addressed. Short-haired breeds, such as Beagles or Dalmatians, might require less frequent grooming, but active pets with exposure to dirt or debris may need more frequent sessions to keep their coat healthy.

Understanding the unique needs of your pet’s grooming routine will help ensure they stay clean, comfortable, and healthy.

Courtesy: Magnus The Therapy Dog

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