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Caring for you Pet’s Coat and Skin during the Winter Months
Does indoor heating during the winter months make your skin dry and itchy and your hair full of static? The problem is the same for your pet, although he can’t complain except to scratch and lick at those irritated spots.
Proper hair and skin care during the winter months is just as important for your pet as it is for you. Try the following quiz and see how much know about what – and what not – to do.
1. During the winter months, pets should be bathed
- As often as during the warmer months
- Once or twice, but only if really necessary
- Not until spring; you shouldn’t bathe a pet in the winter
Correct answer: a.
Your pet needs regular shampooing during the winter months to keep his skin and coat healthy. In fact, done properly, a bath can help to reduce dryness, matting and related skin problems. Always follow the shampoo with a conditioning rinse or moisturizing treatment.
2. When bathing your pet during the winter, be sure to use
- Baby shampoo or other mild shampoo
- A shampoo formulated especially for pets
- Always follow the bath with a moisturizing treatment
Correct answer: b & c. Animal's skin has a different pH from human skin, so only use products specially formulated for pets. Follow shampoo with a conditioner to moisturize skin. If your pet's skin seems especially dry or scaly, he may need a medicated treatment. If you aren't sure which products are right for your pet, consult a professional groomer for product recommendations.
3. It’s a good idea to let your pet's hair grow longer in winter.
- Yes. It provides protection from the cold, especially for outdoor dogs
- It depends upon the pet’s breed and coat.
- No. It can cause skin problems
Correct answer: b & c. If your pet is a breed that requires regular trimming, it's important to maintain his haircut schedule year round. Allowing his hair to "grow in for the winter" can result in increased matting, which is a major cause of skin problems. If you decide to leave his coat longer for the winter, be prepared to brush often to prevent matting.
4. If your dog scratches more in the winter, it’s probably
- A sign that you need to change his diet
- Dry skin
- Nothing, dogs scratch all the time.
Correct answer: b. With windows closed and heaters on, low humidity indoors can make your pet's skin dry and itchy. Daily brushing can help by stimulating the skin’s natural oil production. It also prevents mats and tangles, which can cause irritation.
5. Pets’ nails need more frequent clipping during the winter.
Correct answer: True. When pets have fewer hours of exercise, nails can become overgrown because they are not being worn down with normal activity. Dog's nails will need more frequent clipping during the winter months. The ideal length for a dog's nail is barely touching the ground when the dog is standing still.
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