Pet Hair: Inevitable or avoidable?
Careful grooming is a necessity - although a new gadget may convince some owners otherwise...
The dilemma of how to deal with animal hair on upholstery, carpets and other inconvenient places, such as your pristine business suit moments before going into an important meeting, has long plagued owners of pet dogs and cats.
What's more, many people are allergic to fur, which makes it difficult and uncomfortable when our beloved furry friends are shedding.
And now it seems as though manufacturing brand Dyson may have the answer.
The technology giant has announced the introduction of a brand new vacuum attachment which is specifically designed to gently and effectively remove excess fluff from canine coats.
"Conventional grooming tools tend to just create a fur cloud and more cleaning. We've engineered the Groom tool to hygienically remove fur, without the mess," inventor Sir James Dyson claimed.
The news might find many owners rejoicing and reaching for their chequebooks.
However, for those of us unable or unwilling to spend cash on a gadget like this, there may be other options to try.
The importance of grooming
Cats and dogs should be groomed regularly as part of their regular pet health care routine. Although both species - particularly felines - are methodical about licking themselves clean, humans may be more effective thanks to special tools and implements on the market.
Grooming not only helps to remove excess hair, it also aids kittens and puppies in become accustomed to being handled. This can be particularly helpful for people working with cat or dog rescue cases.
Moreover, the process allows owner and pet to bond, as well as giving the groomer a better chance to get to know their creature companion's body. This means that any strange lumps and bumps can likely be detected earlier.
How should I groom my pet?
Longhaired animals - such as Persian cats - need to have more regular grooming sessions, so as to properly maintain their coats. If this is not done carefully, their fur can grow tangled and matted, which, in addition to looking odd, can be uncomfortable for the animal.
Owners with shorter-haired moggies and hounds can be a bit more relaxed about brushing their pets, but it should still be done at least once a week.
Don't forget that it's not just the coat that needs attention - eyes, ears and nails should also be attended to.
What equipment do I need?
A variety of brushes and combs works best, although an expert such as a pet health care professional can give you the best advice. It's important to be gentle when tugging at tangles, as well as handling animals in general. In the case of a creature with sensitive skin or a dermatological condition, specialist equipment might be necessary.
What about flea and tick treatments?
These should be administered regularly and careful grooming with a flea comb is thought to help reduce the incidence of such infestations. It will also make it easier to identify when these problems occur. In addition, it is best not to share brushes and combs with other owners or between animals when possible.
What if my pet gets aggressive or upset when it is being groomed?
Although the ritual can be an important way of socialising your furry friend, there is no point doing it if it is going to disturb and scare both you and the animal. In this case, a professional groomer should be employed, although this must still be done very regularly. Careful training and rewards might help to calm down any skittish creature.
