Pet owners the world owner can sympathize when I say, “I hate giving my cat a bath!” The hissing, the screaming, the scratching, the biting, and he hates it even worse than I do. As pet owners what should we be trying to do at home and what is best to leave to a professional groomer to handle? It really comes down to your pet’s attitude toward grooming and just exactly what it is you want done. Simple things like brushing you pet’s fur and teeth are pretty easy to handle, but some things such as shaving your pets coat to match a certain design (poodles are a great example of this) and clipping their nails may be out of your league.

In a recent article in the June/July issue of Animal Wellness, retired groomer Susan Neal recommends “that you never attempt to clip the hair inside your animal’s ears with clippers or scissors. Stay hairs can be pulled instead and should be done by a groomer who may even teach you to do this at home. The hair outside the ear can be safely clipped, but should only be done if the animal is naturally clipped anyway or if you are treating an ear infection and the hair is becoming an impediment.”

If your are worried about your pet’s health and feel like your pet needs to be treated for fleas, odor problems, matted fur, or needs a shave to keep it cool, this might also be a good reason to get some help from the pros. “Keep in mind, however, that professional groomers aren't miracle workers; it's up to you to stay on top of your pet's grooming needs.” says a spokesman from the Humane Society.