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Most important: Brush, brush, brush.
Brushing your dog's coat up and down not only detangles matted hair, it helps spread the natural oils, increases circulation
and reduces shedding.
Brushing also helps you detect underlying problems, such as painful hot spots - skin infections - and ticks and fleas.
While deer ticks aren't prevalent in the city, dogs can carry the pesky critters back from such tick-infested spots as Ditches
in the North Valley and the Sandia's, and transmit them in the dog run.
Added time outdoors also means it's important to wash your pet's face, eyes and paws, and check its ears after each walk.
Keep toenails trimmed. When you can hear them clicking, it's time to clip. Overgrown toenails can cause back problems
and infection.
When it comes to bathing, frequency is a hot debate. Some experts suggest a bath once every two months. That's fine for
suburban dogs that roll around in the grass, but not for a city dog in a dusty dog-run.
"If your dog isn't huggable, it's time for a bath," Bendersky says, and recommends bathing a city dog every
three to four weeks, using a shampoo with a low PH to retain oils. And, he says, don't forget the sunscreen.
With hundreds to choose from, finding a groomer can be a challenge.
Judy Kuriel, president of International Professional Groomers (ipgcmg.org), one of three organizations that certify groomers,
says many dogs can be anxious, so finding the right situation is key. She offers the following tips:
Find a shop that's cool, clean and picks up hair so your pet doesn't get the last pet's problems. Make sure the dryers
do not use a heating element, which can scorch, burn and even kill a dog.
Look for a groomer who doesn't play doctor, but who keeps up with new techniques, such as using only natural, nontoxic
products for flea prevention.
Most important, if you don't like the first groomer, find another. There are plenty to choose from, including mobile grooming
vans, in-home groomers, vets, spas and doggy day care
BY AMY SACKS
DAILY NEWS WRITER
(Edited for our city)
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