Proper grooming is an important part of pet care. Here's some tips. It not only makes your pet look better, but contributes to their physiological and psychological health. Coat Brush your pet thoroughly every day. This helps keep their hair in good condition by removing dirt, spreading the natural oils throughout the coat, preventing tangles from forming and keeping the skin clean and free from irritation. It is best to start brushing your pet at an early age, but do not despair if they are an older animal. It is possible to train one to enjoy grooming. Proceed slowly, be consistant, and use treats and plenty of praise to make the experience fun!

Nails Trim your pet's nails about once per month. You'll need a clipper designed specifically for the kind of pet you have. Either a scissor- or guillotine-style clipper can be used. You should also purchase a small bottle of blood-clotting powder just in case you trim too short and the nail should bleed. How to Cut Your Pet's Nails 1 - Have your pet sit beside you. Then place one of their paws in your hand and gently pull it forward. If your pet dislikes being handled this way, slowly accustom them to it by offering treats and praise. 2 - Gradually shorten one nail. Be sure to stop before you reach the quick, which is the part of the nail that contains nerves and blood vessels. If you cannot see the quick clearly, stop cutting just behind the point at which the nail begins to curve downward. 3 - If you cut into the quick, do not panic. Put some clotting powder or baking soda on a moist cotton swab and press it firmly against the nail for several seconds. 4 - Repeat the process until all of their nails have been trimmed. 5 - Do not forget to trim the dewclaw, which is located on the inside of each front leg just above the paw. (Some dogs do not have dewclaws.)

Ears Ear care is an important part of grooming. Ear infections can not only be painful, but lead to permanent hearing loss. The signs of a problem with a companion animal's ears include redness, constant scratching, head shaking and odor. How to Clean Your Pet's Ears 1 - Check your pet's ears twice per month. The skin inside and on the flaps should be pale pink. If there is a foul odor and/or any red, brown or black skin, have a veterinarian examine their ears. 2 - Moisten a cotton ball with warm water or a little mineral oil and use it to clean the opening into the canal and the flaps. Do not probe too deeply into the canal.

Teeth Animals can get cavities and develop periodontal disease, so their teeth should be cleaned with a pet toothpaste at least twice per week. It is best to use a small toothbrush that has soft bristles. Cleanings performed by a veterinarian may also be required.

Bathing Bathe your pet once every two months or as often as needed. Be sure to brush them before each bath in order to get all of the mats out of his or her coat. How to Bathe Your Pet 1 - Place a rubber mat in your bathtub, or a towel in your sink, for secure footing. Then place a cotton ball in each of your pet's ears to prevent water from entering. 2 - Rinse with warm water. Use a spray hose if one is available, but be sure to keep the nozzle very close to their body. Never spray in the face. 3 - Apply a shampoo designed especially for pets in small amounts, working from the head to the tail. Be sure to clean the rectum, between the toes, behind the ears and under the chin. Try to avoid getting shampoo in their eyes. 4 - Thoroughly rinse with warm water. 5 - Dry with a towel and/or hair dryer.

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