What Groomers Use to Stop Shedding in Pets
Shedding is a natural process for many pets, but excessive hair loss can be frustrating for pet owners and uncomfortable for animals. Professional groomers utilize a combination of tools, products, and techniques to reduce shedding and promote a healthy coat. Understanding these methods can help pet parents manage shedding at home and know what to expect from a grooming session.
Common Grooming Tools to Reduce Shedding
Groomers have access to a range of specialized tools designed to remove loose undercoat fur and minimize shedding:
- Deshedding Tools: Tools like the Furminator® or similar rakes are designed to reach deep into an animal’s undercoat and remove loose hairs before they fall out naturally.
- Undercoat Rakes: These tools have long teeth to penetrate thick coats and extract dead fur.
- Slicker Brushes: Often used to remove tangles and loose fur from the top coat, slicker brushes are especially helpful for dogs with double coats.
- Blow Dryers: High-velocity dryers used by groomers help whisk away loose fur and dry the coat thoroughly, minimizing post-bath shedding.
Specialized Products Used to Control Shedding
In addition to tools, groomers use various shampoos and conditioners designed to treat the skin and coat:
- Deshedding Shampoos: These are formulated with ingredients that nourish the skin and loosen the undercoat during bathing.
- Conditioners: Leave-in and rinse-out conditioners help hydrate the skin and coat, reducing dryness and breakage that can contribute to shedding.
- Oatmeal and Aloe Vera: Products containing these soothing ingredients can calm irritated skin and support coat health.
Techniques and Practices to Reduce Shedding
Grooming professionals follow specific procedures that help minimize pet shedding:
- Regular Brushing: Routine brushing is essential for removal of dead hair and to prevent matting that might lead to excess hair loss.
- Proper Bathing: Bathing loosens the undercoat and helps wash away shed fur. Groomers use warm water to help open follicles and release excess hairs.
- Blow Drying: After bathing, blow drying helps remove loosened fur and gives a finishing touch to the grooming process.
- Health Check: Groomers often check for signs of skin issues or parasites like fleas, which can exacerbate shedding.
Benefits of Professional Grooming for Shedding
Using professional services has several advantages:
- Consistency: Groomers stick to a regular maintenance schedule, which significantly reduces shedding over time.
- Expertise: They are trained to handle various coat types with the right combination of tools and techniques.
- Clean Environment: By using grooming facilities, pet owners can avoid shedding hair accumulating at home.
At-Home Shedding Control Tips
While professional groomers are helpful, pet owners can also take steps at home:
- Daily Brushing: Especially for high-shedding breeds, brushing every day can prevent hair from accumulating in the home.
- High-Quality Diet: A balanced diet with omega-3 fatty acids supports healthy skin and coat, reducing excessive shedding.
- Hydration: Proper hydration helps keep skin from drying out, which can cause fur loss or breakage.
- Supplements: Fish oil supplements can promote coat health and reduce shedding in many pets.
When to See a Veterinarian
If a pet's shedding seems sudden or excessive beyond what is normal for the breed or season, it may indicate an underlying health problem. In such cases, consult a veterinarian to rule out:
- Allergies
- Hormonal disturbances
- Dermatitis or infections
- Nutritional deficiencies
With the right combination of grooming, nutrition, and care, pet shedding can be managed effectively. Groomers play a crucial role in helping pets maintain a clean, healthy, and comfortable coat.
