What’s Inside Your Pet Grooming Tool Kit?

Pet grooming is more than just giving your dog or cat or rodents a bath. It is about caring for his body, fur, and health. When you properly groom your pet, you will notice when there are spots on him that stand out of the ordinary. You will also notice right away if there are ticks, fleas, or wounds that need to be taken care of right away.

Pets just can not vocalize their needs in a way we human understand. Regular grooming is one of the best ways to care for him. There are some grooming tools (regardless if you bring your pet for professional grooming on regular basis) that you must have with you when you groom your pet.

Five Basic Pet Grooming Tools

• Brushes: You will want to look for a specific type of dog or cat brush for your pet. Look for pin brushes which have a metal comb and wider spaces between them. This is ideal for those pets that have thicker hair or mats. Once this type of brush is run through the pet’s hair, you’ll want to then use a slicker brush. These are usually shorter and may be bent at the end. Because the spaces are closer together, it gives a more complete comb through.
• Combs: For combs, you’ll want to again look at the distance between the pins. Those that are closer together will give the best comb through, but it is also important for you to ensure that knots or matted hair is brushed through completely before you use a thin comb.
• Nail Clippers: Look for a good quality pet nail clipper. You will want to make sure that the pet gets a clean cut. Use styptic powder to stop bleeds. Make sure to get training on how to cut nails from your vet or your pet groomer before doing it yourself.
• Scissors: You also want to get a pair of grooming scissors to trim around the paws, tail, and maybe inner corner of the eyes (long-coated pets). Make sure the scissors has blunt ends so that you won’t accidentally poke or cut into your pets skin.
• Clippers: If you will be cutting the animals fur, you should look for a good quality clipper. Andis Clipper (Super 2 Speed Model AGC 2) is what I’m using and I highly recommend it. Look for the right size blade—size 10 to 14 are commonly used. Remember that the size of the blade is determines just how close the cut will be. You may want to purchase several.

Most of the grooming tools are available in any local pet supply stores. Or you could shop online for better deals and not to mention free shipping (above certain amount of course).

In any case, you will want to purchase high quality products that will last you quite a while—it’s more value for money. Keep them in good shape, cleaning, and sanitizing (once weekly or monthly) them after each use as directed by the manufacturer.