As the San Diego temperatures rise, our furry friends can start to feel the heat. Proper grooming during the summer months can help pets stay comfortable, prevent skin problems, and even reduce the risk of heat-related issues.
At Tell Tail Veterinary Urgent Care, we see many pets with skin irritations and matting during the summer, so we’re sharing simple grooming tips to help keep your dog or cat cool, healthy, and happy this season.
Why Summer Grooming Matters
Regular grooming is essential for pets year-round, but it’s especially important in warmer weather. Grooming helps:
- Keep coats clean and free of debris
- Prevent matting, which can trap heat and moisture against the skin
- Allow better airflow to regulate body temperature
- Spot potential skin issues like hot spots, fleas, or ticks early
Brushing Tips for Summer
Dogs
Brush your dog’s coat regularly to remove loose fur and prevent tangles. This is especially important for double-coated breeds like Huskies, Retrievers, or Shepherds, who shed heavily in summer. Brushing helps distribute natural oils for a healthy coat and allows air to flow more easily through the fur.
Cats
Cats are great self-groomers, but many still benefit from a helping hand. Brushing reduces shedding, prevents hairballs, and keeps their coat sleek. Long-haired cats like Persians or Maine Coons may need daily brushing during the warmer months.
To Shave or Not to Shave?
It may seem logical to shave your pet to help them stay cool, but this isn’t always the best idea. A pet’s coat actually helps regulate body temperature and protects the skin from sunburn.
- Double-coated breeds should not be shaved, as their undercoat provides insulation against heat and sun.
- For pets with long hair, trimming—not shaving—can help manage the coat while maintaining its protective qualities.
Always consult your groomer or veterinarian before deciding on a summer haircut.
Bathing Pets in Summer
Warm weather means more outdoor adventures, which can lead to muddy paws and dirty coats. Regular baths keep your pet’s skin healthy and help control odors.
- Use pet-safe shampoos to avoid skin irritation.
- Avoid over-bathing, which can strip natural oils and dry out the skin.
- Make sure your pet is completely dry after a bath to prevent hot spots.
Watch for Summer Skin Issues
With heat and humidity comes a higher risk of:
- Hot spots (red, irritated, moist patches of skin)
- Flea and tick bites
- Sunburn on pets with light-colored or thin coats
Check your pet’s skin regularly and keep them on a consistent flea and tick preventative.
When to Visit the Vet
If you notice any of the following during your pet’s summer grooming routine, it’s time to seek veterinary care:
- Red, inflamed, or oozing skin
- Persistent scratching or licking
- Signs of flea infestations or ticks attached to the skin
Tell Tail Veterinary Urgent Care is here to help with same-day care for skin irritations, hot spots, and other summer-related concerns.
Here When You Need Us
We’re open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for urgent pet care. If your pet develops a grooming-related issue or heat-related skin condition, stop by so we can help your furry friend feel better fast.
