Travelling with Your Dog: Grooming Tips with Masters Pet Grooming

Cute Spitz ready for the road

Travel can be exciting for dogs, but long car rides, holidays and new environments are also harder on their coat, skin and nails. Clever grooming choices before and during a trip can keep your dog more comfortable and make your life easier on the road.[1]

 

Pre-trip salon visit

 

A full groom before travel sets your dog up for success. A bath and blow dry removes loose hair, dander, oil, bacteria, odours and other nasties that can build up quickly in a confined car, especially in warm weather. Trimming around the eyes, paws and sanitary areas helps prevent irritation in dusty, sandy or muddy places.[1], [2]

 

Travelling with Your Dog: Grooming Tips with Masters Pet Grooming

Ask your groomer to:

 

·      Shorten nails so they do not catch in travel crates, blankets, fur or car seats (Masters Pet Grooming always clips your dogs nails during a groom).

·      Check paw pads for cracks or matting between toes.

·      Tidy ear hair and check for signs of infection such as redness or odour.

 

A clean, well brushed coat is also much easier to maintain when you are away from home and your groomer and may not have access to your usual products or tools.

 

Coat length and style for travel

 

For long or curly coated breeds, a practical, slightly shorter trim often works best when travelling. It reduces tangling from harnesses, seat belts and sand or burrs picked up on walks. It also makes it easier to check for ticks or grass seeds if you are heading to rural or bush areas.[1]

 

Double coated breeds should not be clipped because removing too much coat can disrupt their natural insulation and sun protection. Instead, a thorough de shedding session can remove dead undercoat, improve airflow and reduce shedding in the car.[1], [3]

 

Your groomer can suggest a style that balances comfort, easy maintenance and your dog’s breed specific coat needs for the conditions you expect on your trip.

 

Bathing and brushing on the road

 

A simple travel grooming kit goes a long way:

 

·      A slicker brush or comb suited to your dog’s coat.

·      A small towel or microfiber cloth and towel for drying off after swims or rain.

·      Pre moistened pet safe grooming wipes for quick clean ups.

 

Regular brushing during the trip prevents knots and removes sand, dust and loose hair. Pay special attention to friction areas such as behind the ears, under harness straps and the feathering on legs and tail.[1], [2]

 

If your dog gets very dirty and needs a bath while away, use lukewarm water and a mild dog shampoo if available, and dry thoroughly to avoid damp odours and skin irritation.

 

Managing odour and comfort in the car

 

Dogs can get car sick, anxious or overheated, all of which contribute to drooling, odour and mess. Planning ahead helps:

 

·      Line the seat or crate with washable bedding that can be shaken out or changed easily.

·      Use a light, pet safe cologne or deodorising spray if your dog is comfortable with it, avoiding strong perfumes in enclosed spaces.[1]

·      Keep the car ventilated and avoid thick coats or jackets unless needed for cold weather.

 

A dog that is clean, dry and free of matting is more likely to settle comfortably and less likely to develop pressure points or skin issues from lying in one position on a long drive.

Masters Pet Grooming offers a variety of dog colognes and perfumes for purchase. Explore our collection, which includes seasonal options at affordable prices.

 

Travel grooming safety checks

 

Travel is a good time to double check grooming safety basics:

 

·      Ensure collars and harnesses fit well after a groom, as coat changes can affect the fit.

·      Keep hair trimmed around the eyes so your dog can see clearly in new settings.

·      Check paws daily for cuts, seeds or hot sand or road irritation.

 

Booking a pre trip groom at Masters Pet Grooming gives your dog a fresh start, and your groomer can talk through coat care tailored to your destination and how long you will be away. That way, your dog can arrive looking, feeling and smelling their best.[1]

Sources

[1] Masters Pet Grooming | top rated dog groomers | 2 Wallace ... https://www.masterspetgrooming.com.au

[2] https://rspcavic.org/learn/pet-grooming/

[3]https://rspcavic.org/learn/keeping-pets-cool/

Disclaimer

The content, advice, products, and services provided on this blog are based on the professional experience of Masters Pet Grooming and its staff. All information is provided in good faith for general informational purposes only.

Any misuse, neglect of instructions, or intentional harm carried out by individuals - including failing to follow the directions of qualified professionals such as veterinarians, dieticians, physiotherapists, or other licensed practitioners - is considered unsafe, unwarranted, and strongly discouraged. Users are reminded to always follow the instructions of their professional care provider and comply with manufacturer guidelines when using any product or service.

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable Victorian and Australian law, Masters Pet Grooming, its staff, and its affiliates accept no liability for any injury, loss, or damage arising from:

• reliance on information provided on this blog without seeking appropriate professional advice;

• failure to follow directions from a qualified professional or manufacturer;

• any action taken that falls outside the scope of our guidance.

By using this blog, you acknowledge that professional judgment, as given by a licensed veterinarian, healthcare provider, or other qualified specialist, should always take precedence over general advice. Masters Pet Grooming and its affiliates expressly disclaim all liability for actions taken contrary to these directions.