Summer is around the corner and it can be a great time to enjoy the outdoors with pets. But with the hot and humid weather in Delhi-NCR, it’s essential to take extra care of your pets’ grooming needs to keep them healthy, happy, and comfortable. So, if you are wondering, “how do you keep your pet clean?” here are some important tips and tricks for pet grooming.
1. How Should You Brush Your Pet During Summer Months?
Regular brushing is a crucial part of pet grooming that helps maintain the health and appearance of your pet’s coat. This becomes even more important during the summer months when pets tend to shed more frequently. Brushing your pet regularly will help remove loose fur and prevent matting and tangling, keeping your pet comfortable and healthy. Here are some dog grooming tips to help you brush your pet effectively:
a. How to Choose the Right Brush or Comb for Your Pet’s Coat?
Choosing the right type of brush or comb is essential to ensure that your pet’s coat is groomed effectively. There are many different types of brushes and combs available, each designed for specific coat types. For example:
- Slicker brushes are best for pets with long, thick coats, while bristle brushes are better for short-haired breeds.
- Opt for summer-friendly grooming essentials like cooling brushes, deshedding combs, silicone curry brushes, and aloe-vera–infused sprays to soothe the skin.
- Always choose lightweight grooming tools to avoid irritation, especially for pets with sensitive skin.
b. Why is it Important to Brush in the Natural Direction of Hair Growth?
When brushing your pet, it’s important to brush in the direction of hair growth. This will help prevent discomfort or pain for your pet, and also ensure that you’re effectively removing loose fur and preventing matting.
Also note for summer coat care for dogs: Avoid shaving your pet’s coat unless medically advised. A dog’s coat provides insulation; shaving may lead to overheating and increase the risk of sunburn.
c. How Can You Be Gentle to Avoid Skin Irritation While Brushing?
While brushing your pet, it’s essential to be gentle to avoid causing any discomfort or pain. This is particularly important if your pet has sensitive skin or is prone to matting. Always start by gently stroking your pet’s coat, and then use a light brushing motion to remove any loose fur.
In summer, brushing 3–4 times a week is usually enough to manage seasonal shedding. Using simple tools like a slicker brush, a detangler, or a deshedding rake can make the process easier and more effective.
Need help managing shedding? Book a deshedding session at Vetic.
d. Should You Use a Detangler Spray or Conditioner for Easy Grooming?
If your pet has long hair, you may want to consider using a detangler spray or conditioner to make brushing easier and prevent tangles. These products will help to smooth your pet’s coat and prevent it from becoming tangled or matted.
Summer grooming also means checking paws; look for cracks, burns, or redness. Use a paw balm to moisturize and protect. Avoid hot pavements; walk your pet early morning or late evening.
2. How Often Should You Bathe Your Pet During the Summer?
Bathing your pet is an important part of their overall hygiene routine, especially during the summer months when they may be more prone to sweating and accumulating dirt and debris on their skin and coat. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between keeping your pet clean and maintaining the natural oils that their coat produces.
Over-bathing your pet can strip their coat of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even skin problems. It’s crucial to establish a grooming schedule that fits your pet’s needs, and for most pets, that means bathing them once every two to four weeks. For cats, once every four to five weeks is typically sufficient.
When it comes to bathing your pet, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that the process is as comfortable and effective as possible. First, use a pet-friendly shampoo that’s formulated specifically for your pet’s coat type. Using human shampoo or harsh chemicals can irritate your pet’s skin and strip their coat of its natural oils, so it’s essential to choose a product that’s specifically designed for pets.
After bathing your pet, it’s important to dry them off thoroughly. Use a towel to pat them dry, being careful not to rub too hard, as this can cause tangles or mats.
Overall, bathing your pet is an essential part of any pet grooming routine, but it’s crucial to do it in a way that’s safe and effective.
3. Why is Trimming Important To Keep Your Pet Cool in the Summer?
As the temperature starts to rise during the summer months, pet parent must take extra care to ensure that their fur babies stay cool and comfortable. One way to help your pet beat the heat is by trimming their fur to a shorter length. This can be especially important if your pet has long hair, as it can become a burden during the hot months.
Trimming your pet’s fur is not only beneficial for their comfort but also for their overall health. Pets with long fur are more susceptible to overheating and dehydration, which can lead to serious health problems. By keeping their fur trimmed, you can help regulate their body temperature and prevent them from experiencing heatstroke.
When trimming your pet’s fur, it’s essential to pay close attention to specific areas, including their face, paws, and belly. These areas are particularly susceptible to matting and tangling, which can be uncomfortable and painful for your pet. By keeping these areas trimmed, you can prevent matting and reduce the risk of skin irritation.
If you’re not comfortable trimming your pet’s fur yourself, it’s always best to take them to a professional groomer. Professional groomers have the knowledge and expertise to trim your pet’s fur safely and effectively. They can also offer dog grooming tips and advice on how to maintain your pet’s coat between grooming appointments.
Before taking your pet to a groomer, it’s essential to do your research and choose a reputable and experienced professional. You can ask for recommendations from other pet parents or check online reviews to find a groomer that’s right for you and your pet.
In addition to trimming your pet’s fur, it’s also essential to maintain good hygiene during the summer months. Regular brushing and bathing can help keep your pet’s coat healthy and clean, reducing the risk of skin irritation and infection.
4. How Should You Manage Your Pet’s Nail Care Before the Heat Hits?
During the summer months, pets tend to spend more time outdoors and engage in various activities, including running, jumping, and playing. However, long nails can impede their movement, leading to discomfort and even injuries. Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain your pet’s nails regularly to ensure their health and well-being.
Trimming your pet’s nails is an essential part of pet grooming. As a pet parent, you can trim your pet’s nails at home using a pair of pet nail clippers. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always take your pet to a professional groomer to have their nails trimmed.
When trimming your pet’s nails, it’s important to be gentle and cautious to avoid hurting them. You should start by holding your pet’s paw and gently pressing on the pad to expose the nail. Then, use the pet nail clipper to trim the nail, making sure not to cut too close to the quick. The quick is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. Cutting into the quick can cause pain and bleeding, so it’s important to avoid it.
Regular nail trimming can be beneficial for both you and your pet. It helps prevent injuries and discomfort caused by overgrown nails and reduces the risk of scratches or damages to your furniture. It also promotes proper posture and walking, making it easier for your pet to move around comfortably.
5. How Do You Clean Your Pet’s Ears Safely in Summer?
Proper ear care is essential for maintaining your pet’s health, and it becomes even more important during the summer months when they spend more time outdoors. Regular cleaning can help prevent ear infections and other ear-related problems that can cause discomfort and pain to your pet.
One of the most significant reasons to clean your pet’s ears during summer is to get rid of dirt, pollen, and other irritants that can accumulate inside the ear canal. When pets spend time outside, these particles can easily get trapped inside their ear, leading to itching, inflammation, or infection.
To clean your pet’s ears, you should use a gentle, pet-friendly ear cleaning solution and a cotton ball or soft cloth. Before starting the cleaning process, it’s essential to ensure that your pet is comfortable and calm. You can try petting and talking to them gently to help them relax.
If your pet’s ears are very dirty, you may need to repeat the process several times until the ear is clean. Once you have cleaned both ears, it’s essential to praise and reward your pet for good behavior.
It’s also important to note that not all pets require the same frequency of ear cleaning. Some pets may need their ears cleaned every week, while others may require it every few months. Consulting your veterinarian can help you determine the appropriate frequency of ear cleaning for your pet. Additionally, if you notice any signs of ear problems, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or foul odor, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
6. How Can You Prevent Fleas and Ticks During Summer?
Fleas and ticks are tiny parasites that can cause significant harm to pets, especially during the summer months. These pests can easily attach themselves to your pet’s skin, causing itchiness, discomfort, and even serious health issues such as skin infections, anemia, and Lyme disease.
To protect your pet from these harmful pests, it’s important to use a pet-friendly flea and tick prevention product. These products come in various forms, including collars, topical treatments, and oral medications. The type of product you choose will depend on your pet’s age, health status, and lifestyle.
When selecting a flea and tick prevention product, it’s important to read the instructions carefully and use the product as directed. Using too much or too little of the product can be ineffective or even harmful to your pet’s health. Be sure to choose a product that is specifically designed for your pet’s species and weight, and never use a product intended for dogs on a cat or vice versa.
If you’re not sure which flea and tick prevention product is best for your pet, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. Your vet can help you choose a product that is safe and effective for your pet’s individual needs.
In addition to using a flea and tick prevention product, there are other steps you can take to reduce your pet’s risk of infestation. These include keeping your pet’s living area clean and free of debris, vacuuming regularly, and washing your pet’s bedding and toys regularly.
Why is Hydration So Important for Pets in Summer?
Okay okay! We know you are here to find out all about grooming and we admit hydration is not a part of it. But, how can you go through a post on pet care in the summers and think we are not going to mention hydration?
So, we are going to say it – it’s important to make sure your pet stays hydrated during the summer months. Provide plenty of fresh, clean water for your pet to drink throughout the day.
If you’re taking your pet on a walk or spending time outdoors, be sure to bring water with you and offer it to your pet frequently. Signs of dehydration in pets can include lethargy, dry mouth, sunken eyes, and loss of appetite, so be sure to keep an eye out for these symptoms and seek veterinary care if necessary.
What is the Best Summer Diet and Nutrition for Dogs?
Just like grooming, a summer diet for dogs plays a huge role in keeping them comfortable and energetic through the hot months. As temperatures rise, dogs naturally prefer lighter, moisture-rich foods that are easier to digest and help maintain hydration. A few small dietary adjustments can make a big difference in how well they handle the heat.
During summer, consider incorporating wet foods, curd, fruits, and lean proteins into their routine. Wet food or freshly prepared home meals with higher water content support hydration and reduce the risk of overheating. A small serving of curd can help soothe the stomach and support gut health, especially in humid weather, just ensure your dog tolerates dairy well.
Seasonal fruits like watermelon (seedless), muskmelon, cucumber, and apples can be offered as healthy treats. They are refreshing, nutrient-rich, and naturally cooling. Always introduce fruits gradually and avoid grapes, cherries, and any fruit with toxic seeds or pits.
Lean proteins like boiled chicken, eggs, fish, or paneer (if suitable) provide steady energy without putting extra burden on the digestive system. Your dog still needs balanced nutrition, so don’t skip their regular meals; simply adjust portions and add lighter, hydrating options alongside.
Avoid spicy foods, excessive carbs, fried items, and anything too salty, as these can worsen dehydration. And never change your dog’s diet suddenly during extreme heat; small, consistent tweaks work best.
If you’re unsure about what diet suits your pet’s age, breed, or health condition during summer, you can always speak to a veterinarian at Vetic.
What are the Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs (and When to Call a Vet)
Summer can take a toll on dogs much faster than most pet parents realise. Heatstroke develops when your dog is unable to cool down, and early signs can be subtle. Watch for:
- Excessive panting
- Unusually heavy drooling
- Warm skin
- Restlessness.
As heat stress worsens, dogs may become lethargic, unsteady on their feet, or uninterested in food and play. Some may vomit or show bright-red gums, all red flags that their body is overheating.
Heatstroke is an emergency, especially in brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, senior pets, overweight dogs, and puppies. If any of these symptoms are present in your dog, then don’t wait or rely on home remedies. Move your dog to a cool area, offer small sips of water, and act quickly.
If your dog shows these signs, visit a Vetic clinic immediately.
What are the Best Post-Grooming Care Tips for Summer?
Good grooming doesn’t end when the bath is over, especially in summer. Damp fur can trap heat, irritate the skin, and increase the risk of fungal infections. After baths, gently towel dry your dog and check areas like the belly, armpits, ears, and between the toes for any moisture that may be hiding. A quick session with a fan or cool-air dryer (never hot air) helps speed up the process.
Once the coat is dry, run a brush through it to remove loose fur and prevent tangles, especially in long-haired breeds. Light brushing also helps redistribute natural oils and keep the coat fresh between grooming sessions.
These simple steps make a big difference in post-grooming care for dogs during the hot months, keeping them cooler, cleaner, and more comfortable. For pets prone to skin issues, professional vet groomers can guide you on safe, summer-friendly routines.
Professional Grooming vs. At-Home Care: Which Is Better for Summer?
At-home grooming is a great way to bond with your pet, but professional grooming offers benefits that go far beyond a bath and brush. Expert groomers are trained to spot early signs of skin infections, ear issues, and flea or tick activity that often go unnoticed at home. They use high-quality tools for proper trimming, deshedding, and coat maintenance, ensuring your dog stays cool and mat-free throughout the summer.
Professional grooming also includes thorough cleaning of hard-to-reach areas, safe nail trimming, and coat styling based on your dog’s breed and coat type. It’s especially helpful for long-haired pets, double-coated breeds, seniors, and anxious dogs who may need a gentle, experienced hand.
Book your summer grooming session at Vetic.
Now, How can Vetic help?
Pet grooming is essential for keeping your pet healthy, happy, and comfortable during the warmer months. By following these dog grooming tips and tricks for brushing, bathing, trimming, nail care, ear cleaning, flea and tick prevention, and hydration, you can help ensure that your pet stays in top shape all season long. Vetic has trained, experienced, internationally certified and compassionate groomers who care for your pet as their own. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s grooming needs, you can walk into your nearest Vetic Pet Clinic in Gurgaon, Noida & New Delhi for your pet’s grooming needs.
Happy pet parenting!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is grooming important for pets during the summer?
Regular grooming helps pets stay cool, prevents matting, removes dirt and sweat buildup, and reduces the risk of heat-related skin issues.
2. How often should I groom my pet in hot weather?
Most pets benefit from brushing 3–4 times a week during summer. Bathing every 2–4 weeks is usually enough, depending on your pet’s coat type.
3. What are the best grooming tips for keeping my pet cool in the summer?
Consistent brushing, light trimming, proper hydration, and flea/tick prevention go a long way in keeping your pet comfortable.
4. How can I help my pet stay clean during the summer heat?
Use mild shampoos, brush frequently, and keep your pet’s bedding and resting spots clean and dry.
5. What are the signs that my pet is overheating in the summer?
Watch for excessive panting, heavy drooling, vomiting, bright-red gums, and lethargy, all signs that your pet needs immediate cooling and veterinary attention.
6. Should I shave my pet’s coat to keep them cool in summer?
No. Double-coated breeds should never be shaved, as their coat acts as natural insulation and helps regulate temperature.
7. How can I care for my pet’s paws during hot weather?
Avoid walking on hot pavements, check the pads for burns or cracks, and apply paw balm when needed.
8. Are there any summer-specific grooming tools I should use for my pet?
Cooling brushes, aloe-infused sprays, silicone curry brushes, and deshedding tools can make summer grooming easier and more effective.
9. How can I prevent my pet from getting sunburned during the summer?
Limit exposure during peak heat, avoid shaving protective coats, and use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas like the nose and ears.
10. What are the benefits of regular bathing and brushing for pets in the summer?
They help control odor, prevent heat rashes, reduce shedding, and keep the coat healthy so your pet can regulate body temperature properly.
