With demand for pet groomers up 350%, experts warn against over-pampering our pets.
A month on from the easing of certain lockdown restrictions across the UK, pet care experts are calling for owners to practice caution when it comes to pampering our pets.
Across the UK, lockdown put a pause on our hair appointments, with our pets also going months without professional grooming services, meaning our four-legged friends have been in dire need of their very own salon trip to tame their mane.
Research by leading pet care brand Bob Martin has identified a 350% surge in demand for pet groomers in the days following the easing of restrictions, and is now calling for caution and warning owners to avoid the dangers of over-grooming pets.
Dogs, and some cat breeds, benefit from regular grooming to remove loose hairs and dead skin cells, to keep their coats free of dirt and external parasites, and to distribute natural skin oils along the hair shafts. However, Bob Martin is advising pet owners against opting for DIY methods or using inexperienced groomers, if they can’t make a booking due to waiting times.
Jamie Burton, owner of Pet Spa Essex and pet groomer to the stars, has teamed with the brand to give his top tips on how owners can responsibly keep their pets fur in tip-top condition. Starting his career pampering posh pooches in Harrods, Jamie set up his own business and has a raft of celebrities’ pets on his books, from global artists to reality stars.
1. Long-haired dogs should be groomed every six to eight weeks. This means minimal maintenance at home and will keep the coat in good condition and looking stylish. Any longer than this, coats can start getting matted, fur grows over eyes and nails become overgrown.
2. Avoid the temptation to cut fur yourself, some dogs and most cats have very soft skin and it can easily be nicked or torn. Also, you should never shave a short-haired dog such as a Labrador or Pug because it can affect thermoregulation or expose the dog’s sensitive skin, increasing the risk of sunburn.
3. I highly recommend using a good de-matting and conditioning spray at home. You could use the Bob Martin Clear Flea Repellent Shampoo for dogs and puppies to not only maintain a glossy coat, but also to repel fleas and ticks too, which is achieved through its use of natural Lavandin oil and Margosa extract. This is especially during these warmer months.
4. It is much better to have breeds such as Pomeranians or Newfoundlanders coats professionally groomed, bathed and conditioned, to get rid of all the undercoat and make the coat thinner and breathable.
5. Never pull matted fur out with a comb. You should always brush your pet first (preferably with a de-matting/conditioning spray) and then comb afterwards. Brushing your pet regularly will really help to maintain its coat and also allows you to inspect them for any issues such as lesions, fleas and ticks.
Aurelie Gayraud, Senior Brand Manager at Bob Martin, says the increased demand for grooming could cause issues for us and our pets.
Aurelie comments: “We understand grooming appointments are necessary for pets after lockdown, however over-grooming and cleaning your dog too regularly can lead to some itchy consequences.
“Fur protects our pet’s skin, its largest organ, and helps regulate their body temperatures throughout the year, keeping them cool in summer and warm in winter. It also shields them from certain biting insects, diseases and helps to avoid cuts or abrasions whilst out on adventures.
“Over-cleaning can wash off and interfere with the effectiveness of flea, tick and worm treatments, which could leave your pet and your home infested with nasty critters. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to leave a couple of days after applying treatment before washing or heavily grooming your pet, which you should only do once a month, however this might need to be more regular, depending on how adventurous they are!”
For more information on Bob Martin as well as tips and advice on managing fleas, ticks and worms, please visit www.bobmartin.co.uk