Spring is officially here! As the weather warms up, many of our furry patients will be exchanging their winter wear for summer coats… and leaving fur everywhere in the process. Read on as a Salem, VA vet offers some helpful tips for dealing with shedding season.
Brushing
We recommend brushing your four-legged friend daily during peak shedding times. If you trap that hair in a brush, you’ll be able to get rid of it before it gets stuck to your couch. This is also a great way to spend some quality time with your furry buddy. If you have a dog, take Fido outside for his beauty treatments on warm days. That way, the fur will just blow away. Don’t forget to offer your pet some toys, treats, and ear scritches afterwards!
While taking your dog outside for grooming helps manage shedding, ensuring his safety outdoors is equally important. Discover ‘6 Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe’ for more tips on protecting your furry friend.
Vacuum
One of the best things you can do to keep your home fur-free is vacuum. We recommend vacuuming high traffic areas and your pet’s favorite hangouts daily, and doing more thorough cleanings once a week.
Air Filters
You’ll definitely want to change your air filters in spring. It also isn’t a bad idea to invest in a high-quality air purification system. This will also help keep your home free of dust and dander.
Good Nutrition
Proper nutrition will have a huge effect on your pet’s coat. Make sure your furry pal is eating a good, nutritious diet, which includes lots of fatty acids and Omega 3 and 6 oils. This will keep your four-legged pal’s coat soft and shiny, and reduce the amount of dead fur they get.
Slipcovers
Invest in some good furniture slipcovers. Choose machine-washable ones that are easy to get on and off. Even if you don’t need them all year, they’re great during heavy shedding cycles.
Fur-Busting Hacks
Did you know that a squeegee works great at removing fur from upholstery? You can also use a damp sponge or rubber dish gloves. If you want to quickly get fur off a piece of clothing, toss it into the dryer for a few minutes with a damp washcloth. Of course, when it comes to getting fur off your clothes, the lint roller may very well be your best friend. Keep a few spares handy.
Please do not hesitate to contact us, your Salem, VA pet clinic, if we can ever be of assistance. We’re happy to help!
