"Should my dog have a short haircut to keep him cool during the hot summer months?" is a question asked by many dog owners at this time of year.

Most veterinarians and professional pet groomers recommend against shaving a pet for the summer months, because a dog's coat helps to protect him from the sun. Since dogs don't sweat to cool themselves, they don't need exposed skin to stay cool.

Keep him well brushed
However, your pet's coat must be well-groomed to serve its purpose. A matted coat will trap heat and moisture, causing skin problems and discomfort. On the other hand, the hair on a well-brushed dog can actually help keep him cool by acting as insulation against the heat. It also provides protection from sunburn and from parasites.

Regular brushing and combing to maintain the coat are important throughout the summer months. Brush and comb weekly — more often for pets with long hair. For your pet's comfort, use a conditioning and untangling spray before brushing. After systematically brushing though the coat, use a professional steel pinned comb to make sure all the knots and shedding hair have been removed.

If your dog is badly matted or tangled, a comfort clip by a professional groomer can help. Keep in mind that your clipped pet will need extra protection from the heat and parasites.

Other grooming needs
Pets need special attention during the summer months to keep them comfortable, healthy and insect free. Weekly summer grooming maintenance should include the following, say Best Friends professional groomers:

• Regularly inspect your pet's skin for signs of irritation due to parasites. Parasites are at their peak, so don't skip your pet's preventative treatments!
• Check your pet's ears for problems that may be triggered by summer swims. Weekly cleaning, with a solution made for ear care, can control the growth of organisms that thrive in the moist conditions of the ear.
• Check your pet's feet by spreading the pads and look between and under the toes. Have lawn chemicals caused contact dermatitis? Has sun-heated asphalt stuck in lumps to the feet? Are thorns and grass seed puncturing the skin? These problems should be addressed promptly for your pet's health and comfort.
• Periodic summer shampoos will help remove dust, dirt, mold spores and parasites that can cause skin irritation and allergy symptoms in you and your pet. Be sure to follow the shampoo with a conditioning rinse. Towel, and separate the hair by brushing and combing to speed drying down to the skin. If you use a hair dryer, put it on the coolest setting and use caution to avoid burning your pet's skin.

Regular grooming is important to your pet's good health. If there are tasks you can not or do not want to undertake yourself, seek the help of a professional groomer.