Get Fall Shedding Under Control Now with a Thorough Grooming

After months enjoying the great outdoors, many family pets are suffering from tangled coats, skin irritation, and other problems.

As if that's not enough, fall shedding season has begun. "Dogs are now shedding their summer coats so their warmer, winter coats can grow in," says Traci Simo of at-home pet care provider Canine Company. "If you don't tackle it with grooming, you'll be dealing with lots of shed hair around the house!"

Simo recommends five steps to get summer damage and fall shedding under control:

- Start with a deep brushing, preferably outdoors to reduce the amount of shed hair on furniture. Carefully work out any mats and tangles. A badly matted dog should be seen by a grooming professional with the tools and training to address the problem humanely.

- Check for parasites. Flea and tick season isn't over so, while brushing, inspect your dog's skin for signs. It's critical to keep up parasite prevention treatments; those pests will be looking to hitch a ride indoors before the cold weather hits.

- Shampoo thoroughly to remove shed hair, dust and mold spores. Follow with a conditioner to moisturize sun-damaged skin. Towel dry, then brush and comb the coat. To blow-dry, set your home hair dryer on the coolest setting so it doesn't burn your dog's skin.

- Do an ear check for problems that may have been caused by summer swims. If the ears have an odor or show signs of redness, or if the pet is scratching at them, see your veterinarian.

- Do a foot check by spreading the pads and looking between the toes. Lawn chemicals can cause contact dermatitis or allergies that require treatment. Be sure to trim nails and excess hair between the pads.

"Grooming is important to your pet's health at all times of year," adds Simo. "That's especially true now, when coats and skin need extra attention to undo the summer's damage." For more information, visit www.caninecompany.com.