Grooming/Washing Your Pet on Your Own Vs. With a Professional

The grooming needs of different breeds of cats and dogs differ. Some pets, such as Poodle or Bichon Frise, need a lot of grooming and brushing, but indoor cats are pretty low maintenance in that department. The question is, does your pet really need professional grooming, or is it something you can do at home?

The answer is not so simple because every pet is different. There are several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to set up an appointment with a groomer in Fayetteville, NC. Ultimately, the primary considerations are resources such as time and money, your ability — or lack thereof — to groom your pet at home, and your pet’s specific needs.    

Budgeting Time and Money

Grooming your pet on your own can take quite a long time. Not to mention how frustrating it can be to clean up the post-grooming mess in the bathroom. On the other hand, professional grooming is convenient and saves you a lot of time. Instead of spending a few hours washing and drying your pet’s hair or trimming their nails, you can simply drop them off at the groomer and let them take care of everything. 

Many Fayetteville pet owners assume that taking their pet to a professional groomer will burn a hole in their wallet, but the truth is that pet grooming is actually quite affordable. Furthermore, it is well worth the money to put your trust in a professional. Prices will vary depending on your pet’s size and the type of coat they have. It is also worth noting that many pets can go eight weeks or more before needing another grooming appointment, depending on their individual needs, of course.

Capabilities of Professional Pet Groomers

Do you know how to groom your pets at home? 

Many pets hate bathing. We have seen many dogs afraid of water, and it can be tricky to get them into the bathtub and give them a good bath. And if you have a large breed of dog — say, a St. Bernard or Great Dane — things become even more challenging. Some pets also hate having their nails clipped. Your pet cat or dog may even refuse to have their paws touched! Be careful and learn some basic techniques if you decide to cut your pet’s nails at home. One bad nail trimming experience will indefinitely ruin your ability to trim your pet’s nails.

In addition to your (in)ability to groom your pet at home, consider the limitless capabilities of a professional grooming service. Professional pet groomers have the necessary experience, expertise, and equipment to make your pet’s grooming experience as pleasant as it can be. Grooming tables with leashes or harnesses, commercial bathtubs, sophisticated drying methods, and — in some cases — sedation allow professionals to expertly groom your pet while keeping them nice and quiet. A professional pet groomer will also be able to suggest shampoos and conditioners that are best suited for your pet’s skin type. Furthermore, a professional grooming session may include tasks that would be difficult to perform at home, such as de-shedding treatment, flea removal, and blow-drying.

Common DIY Pet Grooming Mistakes

Here are some of the most common mistakes that pet owners in Fayetteville, NC, make when trying to groom and bathe their pets at home.

Incorrect Water Temperature

If the water is too hot or too cold, your pet will never want to take a bath again. Consider this: when you go to a stylist for a haircut, they test the water temperature and adjust it accordingly. If they did not do that, you would probably be sprayed on your head with either blistering or freezing water.

Harsh Spray

Cats and dogs are extra sensitive to unfamiliar environments. Introducing the showerhead to your pet’s bathing routine might be a bad idea. Using a high-pressure sprayer can cause your pet to become frightened or even cause their skin to become rough or itchy.

Wrong Shampoo Selection

Choosing a high-quality, natural shampoo is crucial for your pet’s skin and coat health. Generic shampoo brands can irritate your pet’s skin, resulting in discomfort and even allergy breakouts.

Incorrect Drying Methods

It is common for pet owners not to completely dry their pets since the pet is impatient to get out of the bathtub. However, it is important to remove as much water from your pet as possible.

Incorrect Bathing Frequency

While too many baths in a short period can trigger skin irritations and dandruff, too few can put your pet at risk of infection and give them a stench that would knock a grown man out. When you take your pet to a professional groomer, their entire body is checked for ticks, fleas, lumps, dry skin, and any other anomalies that may exist.

Incorrect Nail Trimming

Trimming your pet’s nails when you do not have much experience or a sharp, good-quality trimmer is never a good idea. If you inadvertently cut the nails too short, they will start bleeding. This is not only painful for your pet, but it also puts them at risk of infection. 

Be Aware of Your Pet’s Grooming Needs

It is important to become aware of and educate yourself on your pet’s grooming needs. Grooming is necessary for both dogs and cats, regardless of how different it might look. Consider the following factors when establishing a grooming regimen for your pets: 

• Type of coat: Some fur retains its condition due to a pet’s natural oils, while other coats grow dull and dry if left uncared for.
• Length of fur: Pets with longer hair will require frequent trimming and even more frequent brush-outs. 
• Outdoor activity level: A pet who spends more time outside will almost certainly require a more intensive grooming program.
• Self-grooming: Does your pet do a good job of keeping themselves clean? If not, they may need professional help.

Pet Grooming Services in Fayetteville, NC

Pet grooming is about more than making your pet look their best — it also helps maintain their health, shedding, and cleanliness. The primary groomer at Cliffdale Animal Hospital, Bre, is experienced and can provide what your pet needs! Give us a call at (910) 487-5013 or contact us online to learn more about our grooming services or book your next grooming appointment!