A trip to the spa is a great way to relax, especially after a good long hike. But even if your pet may not think the same, we know just how much a good bath and brushing can help them stay healthy and happy. Things like long nails and matted fur can lead to pain for your best friend, so take a look at our list of the best pet groomers in Bozeman.
Cats and Dogs Both Need Grooming, But One of Them Needs It More Often
We all know which one it is, too. Say it with us: Dogs.
Why do these two sweet and furry animals need different types of grooming care? Cats are solitary hunters, and in the wild they do not often hunt with other cats or live with them. Masking their scent is important—not only does it keep larger predators away, it allows cats to sneak up on their own prey. By grooming themselves effectively and often, wild cats were able to keep themselves safe and fed.
Dogs, however, roamed in packs. Before humans became their families, dogs would travel, hunt, and live in groups with each other. They relied on the strength of the pack for protection as well as food, so they did not need to be concerned with masking their scents like other animals might. So while cats will naturally self-groom, dogs are more inclined to want to be as stinky as possible.
Why Is Grooming So Important?
Grooming ensures that your pet is free from things like hair mats that could cause infection, bruising, and pain. Both cats and dogs require daily brushing, especially long-haired breeds. Brushing helps to reduce the amount of tangled hairs in their coats, keeping matting at bay.
Hair mats can cause painful bruising and tearing if they get caught on something. Mats are most common behind ears and under collars. And if they are too big or too tight, they will need to be cut out. It’s best to leave this task up to a professional groomer, to prevent accidental injuries.
Dogs and cats also need regular nail trims. Aside from making an annoying click on the floor, nails that are too long can be quite painful for your pet. If they grow too long, they can make walking uncomfortable. If they get even longer, they may curl back into the toes, causing pain and open wounds that are easily infected.
But cutting your pet’s nails too short can also lead to pain and bleeding, especially if the quick of the nail gets nicked during a trim. And if your pet dislikes pedicures, they might wriggle away and scratch you, so this is another job that’s best left up to a pro.
Best Groomers in the Bozeman Area
Oasis Grooming
With a pet-first approach, this grooming facility believes that your pet should not be stressed at the groomer. Each groomer works hard to ensure that your pet leaves smelling fresh and happy. Along with dogs, Oasis also grooms cats!
Dee-O-Gee
Full-service or self-service, this grooming facility offers the works. Their full-time groomers are all licensed and experienced, and the self-service station is fully equipped with sensitive skin shampoos and conditioners. And even though their name spells “D-O-G,” this salon offers cat grooming services as well.
Bridger Bubbles
Need your car washed and your dog, too? This self-service grooming station is located right alongside the carwash. With a stock of shampoos, conditioners and dryers, all you need to bring is your dog, a brush and a towel! So after a muddy hike, you can get your pup’s paws clean and then get a car wash next door.
Grooming and Dental Care Are Equally Important for Keeping Pets Healthy
Grooming activities like brushing fur and teeth are very important for your pet’s health. Cavities and gum disease can cause your pet intense pain and dangerous infections that spread to other parts of their bodies. With a pain free smile and a shiny clean coat, they will be ready for any photo opportunity!
At Montana Pet Dentistry and Oral Surgery, we specialize in dental care for dogs and cats of all shapes and sizes. With two convenient locations—one in Missoula and one in Bozeman—we make it easy to get your pet’s teeth cleaned. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/3/23). Photo by Александр Гросс on Unsplash.