As the coronavirus outbreak has forced people to stay indoors and shut down some businesses, pet owners may start wondering what to do about grooming.
In a recent segment of Global News’ The Morning Show, veterinarian Cliff Redford shared tips on how to groom your dog at home.
While professional groomers may have a long list of tools they use in an office, Redford says you can easily get away with things in your home.
“You’re going to start with shampoo,” he said. Redford recommends human shampoo, but others have suggested only using shampoos made for dogs.
Next, grab a hairdryer, clipper, pet nail trimmer and dog brush.
“Do not use scissors, leave that to the groomer … They are gong to hurt your dog if you use scissors incorrectly.”
Your dog should be “showered down,” Redford said, and this means making a trip to the shower.
“You gotta have the fur and the skin clean before you do any sort of brushing or clipping.”
Also, make sure you avoid hot water.
Next, your dog has to get dry.
Redford recommends drying the dog with a towel and later using the hairdryer to make the fur fluffy.
“They gotta be fully dry … then brush them and get all the tangles. They will love it.”
According to the World Health Organization, there is currently “no evidence” dogs and cats can catch the virus.
“However, it is always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets,” the organization notes on its website.
“This protects you against various common bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella that can pass between pets and humans.”
For more full steps on how to groom your dog at home, watch the full video above.
Questions about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:
Health officials caution against all international travel. Returning travellers are legally obligated to self-isolate for 14 days, beginning March 26, in case they develop symptoms and to prevent spreading the virus to others. Some provinces and territories have also implemented additional recommendations or enforcement measures to ensure those returning to the area self-isolate.
Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing — very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease. If you develop symptoms, contact public health authorities.
To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. They also recommend minimizing contact with others, staying home as much as possible and maintaining a distance of two metres from other people if you go out.
For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.
With files from Global News’ Hannah Jackson.