The temperature reached over 31oC this month and as it continues to rise many will shed clothes until they are in T-shirts and shorts or just swimwear.
But what about dogs and cats? Nature has provided that animals reduce the thickness of their coat by shedding.
At this time of year, many may think of calling the groomer for an appointment to shave their dog. But there are better, safer and more natural options.
Firstly, a distinction must be made between hairy dogs and furry dogs. When one refers to hairy dogs it is because their coat resembles human hair in that it grows quickly and sheds only when the hair has grown old and needs to be replaced. This means that hairy dogs, when shaved, continue growing hair exactly as before and often have healthier coats thanks to clipping. Even in such cases, it is advisable to leave at least one inch of hair to avoid sunburn.
On the other hand, fur is totally different. Fur is what keeps an animal warm in winter and cool in summer, and shaving will actually interfere with this process. Fur usually sheds when it reaches its maximum length.
Fur keeps the rays of the sun away from the skin to avoid overheating through direct radiation, and shedding reduces the thickness of the coat to allow more air in to ventilate the skin and help the animal cool through convection.
Shaving increases ventilation but also increases exposure to the sun. Regular brushing and a process called plucking is more effective at keeping them cool and healthy.
Why would groomers shave if it was detrimental to the animal? Well, if enough people ask for it, and competition dictates so, they’ve probably had their hands forced into providing such a service. What is worse about shaving is that some coats do not grow back properly for many months or even years, rendering the coat unsuitable for the winter.
The only time shaving is excused is if the coat needs to be removed to enable medication to be applied, and even then it should be limited to the affected area.
So if you must call your groomer, ask for a good brushing or manual plucking instead of a shave this time, or even better, make it a point to remember to do this yourself. This is important anyway to avoid severe matting and ensure healthy circulation.
You’ll bond with your pet better, you’ll be able to notice any skin problems or lumps sooner, you’ll reduce the number of times you have to sweep floors and you can use the money you save for that new swimwear you’ve been promising yourself.
For more information contact Dogs Trust Malta on 2142 1500, 7771 1100 or by e-mail at office@dogstrustmalta.com.
www.dogstrustmalta.com