When you own a dog, keeping him clean should be a very important part of your routine. You want your pet to be comfortable and healthy. Good hygiene plays a big role in achieving this goal! Our staff at 5 Points Animal Hospital is often asked about the best hygiene routines for dogs. So, now we would like to share with you a few tips on how to easily keep your dog's ears, teeth, and skin clean. Following these maintenance practices will make your dog happy and prevent future health problems.
Keeping your dog's ears clean is essential. It prevents parasites as well as bacterial, yeast, and fungal infections. 5 Points Animal Hospital can recommend a mild cleaning solution you can use once a week. You will squeeze a bit of the solution into your dog's ears and then massage the base of the ear for about 30 seconds. Wipe away any excess solution and discharge with a cotton pad. Never stick anything far into your dog's ear canal to avoid damaging the eardrum.
Starting a daily dental routine with your dog is important to keep infection and inflammation from developing into periodontal disease. Choose a dog toothbrush that fits his mouth comfortably. You might find that a finger comb is easier to use. Beginning with the back teeth, use circular motions to scrub the teeth and gums. You will want to keep these teeth cleanings as short as possible to keep your dog comfortable. Always use positive praise to help your dog learn to enjoy this routine.
Skin infections, such as hot spots, can make your dog miserable. Insect bites, allergies, wet and matted hair, and excessive scratching can all lead to both irritations and wounds. These can become infected. Knowing how to maintain your dog's skin and fur can prevent these problems. You should keep your dog trimmed and groomed, especially during the summer months when it is hot, to avoid knotted and matted hair.
While bathing your dog regularly is important, you should only bathe your dog once a month as frequent baths can cause dry and itchy skin, which can become infected more easily. After giving your dog a bath, make sure you dry him off completely. Nutrition is very important in maintaining a healthy coat and skin, so make sure you are feeding your dog a balanced diet. 5 Points Animal Hospital can help you find the right food for your dog, and we can also recommend the best flea and tick prevention medicine to keep your pet safe from insect bites.