Mobile Cat Grooming Broomfield | Thornton, Wheatridge

October 23, 2023November 1, 2023

Pet Parents: Be Careful of These 10 Things That Can Harm your Dog or Cat this Fall

As the leaves change color and the air grows crisp, it’s that time of year when our furry friends, both feline and canine, can’t resist the temptation of a world filled with falling leaves and squirrels on the move. While it might seem like a whimsical wonderland for our pets, the fall season also presents its fair share of dangers for them.

We go over some things you as a pet parent need to be aware of this season in order to keep your fur babies safe!

Toxic Plants: Many fall plants like chrysanthemums and poinsettias can be toxic to both cats and dogs. Keep these seasonal blooms out of reach. Autumn crocus is also extremely toxic.

Seasonal Allergies: Just like humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies in the fall. Watch for signs of sneezing, itching, or excessive licking, and consult your vet if needed. Sometimes, a good bath is a wonderful treatment for your dog or cat suffering from allergies—Collar Cuts mobile pet grooming services Broomfield, Arvada, South Boulder and more. We come to you so schedule your appointment with us today.

Toxic Mushrooms: Fall is mushroom season, and some wild mushrooms can be poisonous to pets. Be cautious and ensure your furry companions don’t nibble on any fungi they come across. Toxic mushrooms can grow in various locations, including wooded areas, rocky terrains, parks, and even your backyard. Identifying toxic mushrooms can be challenging, so it’s best to assume all wild mushrooms are dangerous.

Rodent Bait: As the weather cools, rodents seek shelter, leading to increased use of rodent baits and traps. These can be highly toxic to pets, so keep them inaccessible.

Antifreeze: The sweet taste of antifreeze can be irresistible to pets, yet it’s extremely toxic. Watch out for leaks and ensure your pets don’t come in contact with it. Leaks can be found in parking spots like your driveway and of course, antifreeze containers need to be kept far away and properly sealed!

Falling Leaves: Rambunctious play in leaf piles can hide sharp objects or even pests. Keep an eye on your pets while they enjoy the autumn foliage. Pests like beetles, earwigs, spiders, aphids, snakes, ticks and stinging insects are commonly found in fall leaves.

Daylight Savings Time: The shift in time can disrupt your pets’ routine. Adjust feeding, walking, and playtime to avoid any confusion. Don’t forget: daylight savings ends on November 5 when you’ll have to turn your clocks back an hour.

Wildlife Encounters: Fall is a busy time for wildlife preparing for winter. Cats may be tempted to chase birds, while dogs might want to chase squirrels or raccoons. Supervise outdoor adventures to avoid unwanted encounters.

Halloween Hazards: Candy, decorations, and costumes can pose risks. Chocolate is toxic and can be fatal to dogs and cats. Also, take note that artificial sweeteners and small toys are dangerous if ingested. Keep Halloween treats and decorations away from curious noses and paws.

Colder Temperatures: As the weather cools down, be mindful of your pets’ comfort and safety. Provide them with warm shelter and don’t leave them outside in chilly weather for extended periods.

By staying aware of these fall hazards and taking preventive measures, you can ensure your beloved pets enjoy the season safely and without any spooky surprises.

Sources:

Aspca.org
vcahopsitals.com
todayshomeowner.com
openai.com

September 26, 2023March 6, 2024

How Often Should I Bathe My Dog?

Bathing our beloved canine companions is not just a routine task in pet care; it’s a vital aspect of maintaining their health and hygiene. Just like humans, dogs need regular baths to keep their coats clean, skin healthy, and odor at bay. However, determining the ideal frequency for bathing your furry friend can be a bit of a puzzle. Factors such as breed, lifestyle, and individual needs and characteristics play a crucial role in this decision. In this informative guide, we will delve into the world of dog bathing, offering valuable insights to help you understand how often your canine companion should be bathed to ensure they look and feel their best.

Here are some guidelines to help you determine how often to bathe your dog:

Breed: Different dog breeds have different coat types. Breeds with oily or water-resistant coats, like Labradors or Basset Hounds, may require fewer baths than breeds with hair-like coats, such as Poodles or Maltese, which can mat and become dirty more easily.

Activity Level: Active dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors may get dirtier and require more frequent baths than less active dogs. It’s not uncommon for dogs who live in Colorado, for example, to go on frequent hikes. Dogs that swim frequently may also need more baths to remove chlorine or saltwater residue.

Health and Skin Conditions: If your dog has skin issues, allergies, or a specific medical condition, your veterinarian may recommend a bathing schedule tailored to their needs. In some cases, medicated shampoos may be prescribed. If your dog has a flea problem, we highly recommend coming in for a flea bath and considering adding flea medication to your dog’s health regimen.

Odor and Dirt: Bathing your dog when they start to develop a noticeable odor or when they get visibly dirty is a good rule of thumb. For most dogs, this might mean a bath every 4 to 12 weeks.

Regular Grooming: Regular brushing and grooming can help reduce the need for baths by preventing matting and removing loose hair and dirt. Brushing your dog’s coat also helps distribute natural oils for a healthier coat.

Age: Puppies generally do not need frequent baths, as their skin and coat are still developing. Senior dogs may also require fewer baths, as their skin may become more sensitive.

Personal Preference: Some dog owners may choose to give their dogs more frequent baths for personal reasons, such as to keep them smelling fresh or to reduce allergens in the home.

Generally, most healthy dogs would need a bath every one to three months but it really depends on many of the factors outlined above. Overbathing a dog can strip their skin and coat of essential oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and potentially causing skin problems. We at Collar Cuts are more than happy to let you know what we think is a good schedule for your pup. You can also consult your veterinarian for their expert opinion as well.

Sources:

akcchf.org
manypets.com
openai.com

September 17, 2023March 6, 2024

Uh Oh! Are you Forgetting these Important Areas of Pet Care for Your Dog and Cat?

A Wag! Survey on Pet Parenting in 2023 revealed some interesting trends on how different generations view and treat their pets. Baby Boomers tend to view their pets as “fur-babies,” emphasizing obedience in training and showing a preference for traditional approaches. In contrast, Gen Zers see their pets as “best friends” and adopt more flexible, reward-based training methods. Younger pet owners are also more inclined to bring their pets to public places like restaurants.

Younger generations, particularly Gen Z, tend to pamper their pets more than Boomers and Gen Xers. Despite having lower average incomes, Gen Zers are more willing to spend generously on pet-related expenses, including grooming and pet fashion. Around 73% of Gen Zers are open to splurging on premium pet grooming services and supplies to keep their pets looking their best. Additionally, 55% of all surveyed pet parents, regardless of age, enjoy dressing up their pets in clothing and accessories, with Gen Zers showing a particular willingness to pay premium prices for pet fashion, especially for special occasions.

From our experience, pet parents of all generations adore their dogs and cats. As pet owners that are conscious of their pet’s health and comfort, we know you have their best interest at heart! Pet grooming can be a tedious and sometimes difficult task when done at home.

Are you Forgetting These Important Areas of Pet Care?

Pet owners often prioritize basic grooming tasks like bathing, brushing, and nail trimming, but there are several grooming aspects that are sometimes overlooked:

Ear Cleaning: Cleaning a pet’s ears is crucial, especially for breeds with floppy ears or those prone to ear infections. Regularly check for dirt, wax buildup, or signs of infection.

Teeth Care: Dental hygiene is essential for pets, but it’s often neglected. Brushing your pet’s teeth three time a week at minimum is recommended.

Anal Gland Expression: Some dogs may need their anal glands expressed periodically. If your pet scoots or licks their rear end excessively, it may be a sign that these glands need attention.

Paw Care: Regularly inspect and clean your pet’s paws, especially if they spend time outdoors. Look for foreign objects, cuts, or signs of irritation.

Eye Cleaning: Certain breeds are prone to tear staining or may develop discharge around their eyes. Breeds of dogs with short noses, including Shih-tzu, Pekingese, and pugs, are susceptible to increased tear production due to either their shallow eye sockets or the presence of hair growing in the folds of their skin around the eyes. Additionally, Cocker Spaniels and Poodles have a higher likelihood of experiencing blocked tear ducts compared to other breeds. Gently cleaning the area can prevent staining and discomfort.

Tail Care: Long-haired or fluffy-tailed pets may accumulate dirt and debris in their tails. Regularly brush and check their tails for mats or tangles.

Fur around the Eyes and Ears: Breeds with long facial hair may need extra attention to prevent matting around their eyes and ears.

Regular Checkups: Grooming goes hand-in-hand with overall pet health. Regular veterinary checkups can identify grooming needs related to skin, coat, or general health.

Proper Brush Selection: Using the right type of brush for your pet’s coat can make a significant difference in grooming effectiveness. Different breeds and coat types require different brushes.

Diet and Nutrition: A well-balanced diet can greatly impact your pet’s coat health. Proper nutrition can lead to a shinier and healthier coat, reducing the need for excessive grooming.

Leave it to the Pros at Collar Cuts Mobile Grooming in Colorado

While many pet owners groom their pets at home, professional grooming services can provide a more comprehensive and specialized treatment that includes things like de-matting, anal gland expression, teeth brushing, ear cleaning specialized breed cuts, and skin and coat health assessments. The professional groomers at Collar Cuts Mobile Grooming not only come to you, they also take special care of your cat or dog in a private, climate-controlled environment to help them feel safe and at ease. Contact us for a fast quote for your cat or dog today. Just call or text: 720-271-1074.

Sources:

Wagwalking.com
Petmd.com
vcahospitals.com
webmd.com
Openai.com

August 24, 2023March 6, 2024

Yes, It’s Important to have Your Dog’s and Cat’s Nails Trimmed. Here’s Why

Nail trimming is a vital aspect of pet care for both dogs and cats. Just like regular grooming and medical attention, maintaining well-trimmed nails contributes significantly to the overall health and well-being of your furry companions. Overgrown nails can lead to a range of issues.

First, let’s look at some fun facts about cat and dog claws:

Retractable Claws: Cats have retractable claws, meaning they can extend and retract them as needed. This ability helps keep their claws sharp and prevents them from wearing out when they’re not in use.

retractable cat nails — Kitty displays her claws

Walking on Their Toes: Cats are digitigrade animals, which means they walk on their toes rather than the soles of their feet like humans and most other mammals. Their claws play a crucial role in maintaining balance and providing traction while walking.

Claw Anatomy: Each cat’s front paws have five claws, while the back paws have four. These claws are composed of layers of keratin, the same protein that makes up human hair and nails.

Marking Territory: Scratching is a natural behavior for cats. When they scratch surfaces, they leave behind scent markers from glands located in their paws.

Digging Adaptation: Many dog breeds have well-developed claws that are adapted for digging. This is an inherited behavior from their wild ancestors that would dig to create dens or search for food. Breeds like terriers and dachshunds often have strong, curved claws that aid in digging.

Claw Grip: Dogs often rely on their claws to maintain traction and grip on various surfaces. This ability is particularly important for dogs that participate in activities like agility, climbing, or search and rescue missions.

nail cutting — Before and after nail trim for dog

Why Do You Need to Trim your Dog’s and Cat’s Nails?

Overall, keeping your pets’ nails trimmed helps prevent discomfort, injuries, and potential health issues, fostering a happier and healthier life for your furry companions. Here are top reasons to keep those claws at a proper length!

Comfort and Mobility: Overgrown nails can curl and press into the paw pads, leading to pain and discomfort while walking. Properly trimmed nails ensure that your pets can move comfortably and maintain a healthy gait.

Injury Prevention: Long nails can break or split, causing bleeding and pain. Pets with long nails are also more prone to getting their nails caught in fabrics, carpets, or other surfaces, leading to painful and costly accidents.

Joint and Muscle Health: Over time, long nails can alter your pet’s posture and movement, which can strain their joints and muscles. Keeping nails at an appropriate length promotes proper alignment and reduces the risk of related health issues.

Hygiene: Dirt, debris, and even feces can get trapped under long nails, leading to hygiene issues and potential infections. Regular trimming helps maintain cleanliness and reduces the risk of infections.

Safety for You and Others: Overgrown nails can lead to accidental scratches during play or interaction, causing discomfort or potential infections. Trimming your pets’ nails minimizes the risk of unintentional injuries to both you and anyone else your pets encounter.

The intricate anatomy of dogs’ and cats’ paws makes nail trimming a challenging task for pet owners. The presence of the sensitive “quick” area, with blood vessels and nerves, increases the potential for bleeding and discomfort. Professional groomers provide a solution by leveraging their expertise to handle various breeds, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. Groomers possess the skills to accurately locate the quick, trim nails safely, and use appropriate tools and techniques to prevent injury. With their ability to manage pets’ behavior, groomers create a calming environment, fostering a positive association with nail care. Entrusting groomers with this task gives you peace of mind for the safety, well-being, and properly trimmed nails of your pets, eliminating the stress and challenges that may arise when attempting the task at home.

nail grinding services — Cat receiving a nail trim from pro groomer

Book your pet’s next brush and bath with Collar Cuts—included in the service is nail trimming. Leave it to us and don’t forget, we come to you! Our mobile service also provides a much calmer environment to have a more personalized experience for your pet.

Sources:

Softpaws.com
Brittanica.com
Hartz.com
Allpetvoices.com
fourpaws.com
vcahospitals.com
openai.com

August 13, 2023October 23, 2023

Yes, Your Cat Needs Regular Grooming and Here’s Why

Amidst the whimsical world of whiskers and purrs, a cat’s luxurious coat reigns supreme. The velvety cascade of fur not only adds to their charm but also serves as a vital layer of protection and expression. While your feline friend might revel in occasional dishevelment, regular grooming emerges as the unsung hero in maintaining both their debonair appearance and overall well-being.

The Many Benefits of Cat Grooming

While cats are expert self-groomers, regular grooming by their human companions remains essential. Cats may not reach certain areas, leading to matting, especially in long-haired breeds. Regular grooming helps prevent excessive shedding, reduces the likelihood of hairballs, and enables early detection of skin issues or parasites.

Hygiene: Regular grooming helps maintain your cat’s cleanliness by removing dirt, debris, and potential irritants from their fur. It also prevents the buildup of oils and skin particles that can lead to skin problems.

Mat Prevention: Did you know that the average has around 40 million hairs on their body? It’s not a surprise that matting can occur with so much fur there. Grooming helps prevent mats and tangles in your cat’s fur. Mats can be uncomfortable and may lead to skin infections if left untreated.

Shedding Control: Cats shed their fur, and regular grooming can help manage shedding, reducing the amount of loose hair in your home.

Hairball Prevention: Cats groom themselves by licking, which can lead to the ingestion of loose hair. Regular grooming can help minimize hair ingestion and reduce the frequency of hairballs.

Health Monitoring: Grooming provides an opportunity to check your cat’s skin, coat, and overall condition. You can detect any abnormalities, skin issues, or parasites early, leading to timely medical attention.

Comfort: Cats with long or dense coats can become uncomfortable if their fur is not properly maintained. Grooming helps them feel more comfortable and prevents discomfort caused by mats or excessive shedding.

Special Needs: Some cats, such as elderly or overweight cats, may have difficulty grooming themselves effectively. Regular grooming becomes even more important for their well-being.

Breed-Specific Needs: Certain cat breeds have unique grooming requirements due to their coat type or characteristics. Which breeds are the most notorious for shedding? The list includes Persians, Main Coons, Ragdolls, Siberians, British Shorthairs, Norwegian Forests, Himalayans, and Birmans.

Grooming Can Help with Allergies

Regular cat grooming can also significantly help with allergies by reducing the amount of allergens present in your cat’s fur and environment. Allergens like dander, saliva, and urine proteins can become trapped in a cat’s fur and then spread throughout your living space, triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Here’s how grooming aids in allergy management:

Reduced Allergen Load: Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, helps remove loose fur, dander, and other allergens from your cat’s coat. This decreases the amount of allergens that can become airborne and circulate in your home and buildup on furniture, carpets and wood floors.

Saliva and Urine Proteins: Cats groom themselves by licking, which deposits saliva on their fur. This saliva can contain allergenic proteins. Regular grooming can help prevent excessive self-grooming and reduce the spread of saliva and urine proteins that trigger allergies.

Cleaner Living Environment: Grooming also includes maintaining your cat’s claws and hygiene, which can prevent skin infections and reduce scratching. Scratching can release allergens into the air and exacerbate allergies.

While regular grooming can help manage allergens, it may not eliminate allergies entirely. If you or someone in your household has severe allergies to cats, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional and an allergist for comprehensive guidance on allergy management strategies.

Lakewood and Broomfield County Professional Mobile Cat Grooming

From preventing pesky mats and managing shedding to enhancing their comfort and overall health, grooming is an act of love that keeps them purring with contentment. Whether through at-home pampering or entrusting the task to skilled professionals, providing your cat with the gift of grooming ensures they enjoy a life of ultimate comfort, health, and happiness.

Our professional mobile grooming services offer cats a stress-free grooming experience in the comfort of a private, climate-controlled environment. Our skilled groomers are trained in feline behavior, ensuring gentle handling and personalized care that cats appreciate. Plus, we come to you! Text us to schedule your appointment: 720-271-1074.

Sources:

Petcube.com
Vet.cornell.edu
Dailypaws.com
openai.com

July 23, 2023December 18, 2023

Matted Fur and 3 Other Problems That Happen When Your Dog or Cat Isn’t Regularly Groomed

Is your furry pal looking a little “ruff” around the edges? Are you noticing patches of fur that are difficult or nearly impossible to brush out? Your dog or cat might have a matted fur problem.

broomfield-county-cat-groomers — This kitty needs a grooming!

Matted fur refers to clumps or tangles of tangled and knotted hair in an animal’s coat, typically seen in pets like cats and dogs with long or dense fur. It occurs when loose hairs become trapped and interwoven, forming solid masses that adhere tightly to the skin. These mats can range in size from small knots to large, extensive clumps, and they often occur in areas where the pet’s fur is prone to friction or rubbing, such as behind the ears, under the armpits, along the belly, or around the tail.

Matted fur can pose several problems for pets, impacting their overall health and well-being. Firstly, it can cause discomfort and pain, as the mats pull on the skin and lead to irritation or sores. The tugging can also restrict the animal’s movement and flexibility. Secondly, these clumps create pockets where dirt, moisture, and debris accumulate, potentially causing skin infections or attracting parasites like fleas and ticks.

Furthermore, matted fur disrupts the natural insulation properties of the coat, leaving the animal vulnerable to temperature fluctuations. Grooming becomes challenging for pets with matted fur, as they may have difficulty cleaning themselves properly, leading to hygiene issues and unpleasant odors. Regular brushing and grooming are essential to prevent matting, and if already present, it’s crucial to address the problem promptly with the help of professional groomers or veterinarians to restore the pet’s comfort and overall health.

Why do pets get matted fur? There are many cause ranging from specific climates to static electricity but that main reason is lack of proper grooming.

More Reasons Why Regular Dog and Cat Grooming are Vital

Hygiene and Odor Issues: Regular grooming helps to keep your pet clean and free of odors. Without proper grooming, dirt and waste can accumulate in their fur, leading to foul smells. This can be particularly problematic for cats, as they are meticulous groomers, and neglecting their grooming needs may indicate an underlying health problem.

Eye and Ear Health: Regular grooming allows you to inspect and clean your pet’s eyes and ears. Without proper care, dirt and debris can accumulate in these sensitive areas, leading to infections or other issues that may go unnoticed.

Increased Shedding and Allergens: Regular grooming helps to remove loose hair from your pet’s coat, reducing shedding and the amount of hair around your home. Without grooming, pet hair can become airborne, potentially exacerbating allergies (a big reason why animals get itchy) for both you and your family members.

Leave it to the Pros: Mobile Dog and Cat Grooming in Broomfield County

From fabulous felines to dashing dogs, regular grooming is the secret ingredient that keeps them looking and feeling their best. With a dash of brushing, a sprinkle of bathing, and a touch of trimming, we’ll whisk away those unruly mats and tangles, unveiling a coat so shiny and soft you’ll want to snuggle up with them all day long.

With our mobile grooming trailer, we come to you! Just text us to book your dog or cat’s grooming: 720-271-1074

Sources:

Aspca.org
Foundationanimals.org
Petmd.com
Openai.com

July 12, 2023November 29, 2023

Why Choose a Professional Pet Groomer for Your Cat or Dog?

When it comes to grooming our furry friends, the choices can be overwhelming. Should you roll up your sleeves and tackle the task yourself, armed with brushes and shampoo? Or should you entrust the care of your beloved pet to a professional groomer? While the DIY route may seem tempting, there are several compelling reasons why it’s important to choose a professional pet groomer instead.

Professional Groomers are the Experts

First and foremost, professional groomers are experts in their field. They undergo extensive training and have a wealth of knowledge about different breeds, their specific grooming needs, and the techniques required to keep them looking their best. By entrusting your pet to a professional, you can rest assured that they will receive the highest quality of care.

One of the primary advantages of professional pet grooming is the attention to detail. Groomers possess a keen eye for spotting potential issues such as skin irritations, infections, or unusual lumps. They can detect early signs of health problems that might otherwise go unnoticed. By catching these problems early, you can seek veterinary care promptly, potentially saving your pet from unnecessary discomfort or complications.

The Right Grooming Tools

Groomers are equipped with specialized tools and products designed specifically for pets. From nail grinders to grooming shears, they have the right equipment to handle each task safely and efficiently. Moreover, they use shampoos and conditioners that are formulated for the unique needs of animals, ensuring that your pet’s skin and coat remain healthy and vibrant.

Another benefit of choosing a professional groomer is their ability to handle pets of all temperaments. Different breeds of dogs, for example, can have a variety of personality types that can affect the grooming process. Some are naturally extroverted, or very playful, while some can be more nervous in certain situations. Whether your pet is skittish, anxious, or simply full of energy, a skilled groomer knows how to create a calm and soothing environment. They are experienced in handling various behavioral quirks and can adapt their approach to each individual pet. This expertise reduces stress for both you and your pet, making the grooming experience a positive one.

Maintaining proper grooming habits also promotes good hygiene. Regular brushing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming are essential for preventing matting, ear infections, and overgrown nails. While you may attempt these tasks at home, professional groomers have the skill and patience to ensure they are done correctly, minimizing the risk of injury or discomfort for your pet.

Practical Knowledge

Lastly, professional groomers can offer valuable advice on home care and maintenance. They can recommend the right grooming tools for your pet’s coat type, provide tips on brushing techniques, and offer guidance on between-grooming touch-ups. By following their expert guidance, you can contribute to your pet’s overall well-being and maintain their appearance between grooming sessions.

As you can see, choosing a professional pet groomer over the DIY approach offers numerous advantages. So, put away those scissors and brushes, and let the professionals work their magic, ensuring that your pet looks and feels their very best.

Collar Cuts: Grooming in Boulder County and Broomfield County, Colorado

Collar Cuts is a family-owned business proudly employing expert dog and cat groomers to take special care of your pet! We take pride in providing professional baths, teeth brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning and full service grooming with a caring touch. Check out our before and after photos and then click here for a fast quote. We come to you!

The benefits of choosing a mobile groomer is that a mobile unit enables owners more convenient timing since we travel to your location. Secondly, it offers a private experience for any reactive pets. This can help them feel calmer! We look forward to seeing you (and your furry friend). Just text us to get started: 720-271-1074

We service the following areas: Westminster, Broomfield, Superior, Lafayette, Louisville, Erie, Thornton, Northglenn, Eastlake, Federal Heights, Arvada, South Boulder, Wheat Ridge and Lakewood.

Arvada dog groomers — Before and after dog grooming photos

Sources:

Akc.org
Icslearn.ca
vitapet.com
Openai.com