Why regular grooming can save you vet bills

Why regular grooming can save you vet bills

We all love our furry friends and want what’s best for them—but sometimes life gets in the way and we can’t always give them the attention they deserve. One area that is often neglected is regular grooming, which can have consequences beyond just an unkempt appearance. In this blog post, we’ll discuss five ways in which neglecting grooming can end up costing you more in veterinary bills down the road.

1. On average, a groomer spends more time looking at your dog than your veterinarian. This means that they are more likely to notice any changes or abnormalities in your pet’s appearance that could show a health problem. By catching these issues early or catching them at all, you can save yourself a lot of money in vet bills down the road.

2. DIY grooming can be dangerous for your pet. Dogs are not always cooperative for being groomed, and it's easy to accidentally cut them while trying to trim their nails or hair. They also have delicate skin that can easily be irritated by improper grooming techniques. In addition, many owners do not have the tools or experience necessary to safely groom their pets. This can cause serious accidents, such as cuts and abrasions, that can require expensive veterinary care to treat.

3. Matted fur can cause skin problems and hematomas. When fur becomes matted, it pulls on the skin and can restrict blood flow. This can lead to a variety of problems, including skin infections, hot spots, and hematomas (a type of bruise). Grooming will help prevent matting and keep your pet’s fur healthy and clean.

4. Dogs who are fearful of grooming often require anesthesia in order to be groomed safely. This exposes them to unnecessary risks and can be very costly compared to a regular grooming fee. Grooming with anesthesia requires a full body exam, and blood work before proceeding with sedation.  A professional groomer will help your dog get used to the grooming as long as you bring them for regular and frequent grooming from a young age.

5. Regular grooming sessions include basic maintenance, which is required for all dogs regardless of breed. Ear cleanings with a pet-safe ear cleaner can prevent ear infections that require expensive ear drops to resolve. Frequent nail trims will prevent nails from breaking or tearing, and even penetrating the paw pad, which is extremely painful. Any nail-related injuries will always require antibiotics from a veterinarian.

We hope this blog post has convinced you of the importance of regular grooming for your beloved pet! Not only will they look and smell their best, but you’ll also save money on vet bills in the long run. If you don’t have the time to groom your dog yourself, we highly recommend finding a reputable professional groomer in your area. Your furry friend will thank you for it!