Natural Remedies for Pets: Tips for Pet Owners

Posted on: 1 April 2015

If your dog is an important part of your family, you want to keep it healthy. Part of its healthcare routine should include proper grooming. You can't always find the time or money to take your dog to the animal hospital for grooming. That doesn't mean that your pet has to go without proper care. In fact, there are some simple treatments you can give your pet right at home. Here are a few tricks for keeping your dog well-groomed, even when you can't get to the groomers.

Groom Those Nails

Most dogs hate having their nails filed, especially with those nail-filing machines. You can keep your dog's nails properly groomed by reaching for a piece of sandpaper or one of your own emery boards. Cuddle up on the couch with your dog and then gently file each nail. Your dog will enjoy the time spent with you, and you'll be able to keep those nails filed down to the right length.

Remove the Mats

No matter how hard you try, your long-haired dog is going to get matted fur. Before you upset your canine by trying to brush away the mat, reach for the olive oil. Pour a small amount of olive oil into the palm of your hands and massage the oil through the mats. Leave the oil in place for a few minutes to allow it to absorb. Once the olive oil has absorbed into the hair, you'll be able to brush right through the mats.

Clean Away Tar

If your dog has picked up a bit of tar on its paws, you don't have to rush to the groomers. You can get rid of that tar in no time at all. Simply rub a small amount of mineral oil on your dog's paws and place baby socks over the oil. Leave the mineral oil on for about 15 minutes and then wash it away with warm water and shampoo.

Keep the Ears Clean

The waxy build-up inside your dog's ears can lead to infections. To prevent those infections, you should clean their ears out once a week. This simple solution will keep your dog's ears clean and free from infection.

Supplies You'll Need

• ¼ cup vinegar

• ¼ cup warm water

• Small bowl

• Cotton balls

Directions

1. Combine your vinegar and warm water in a small bowl.

2. Dip a cotton ball into the vinegar solution.

3. Use the cotton ball to wipe the inside of one ear.

4. Use a second cotton ball to clean the other ear.

5. Be careful not to insert the cotton ball into the ear canal.

6. Repeat the process until all the dirt and wax is removed from each ear.

Professional grooming out of the question right now? That's okay. You can take care of basic grooming issues using the simple steps provided above. Your pet will feel better and you'll be happy knowing that your dog is well-cared for.