When most people think of grooming, they picture baths, haircuts, and nail trims. But did you know that ear cleaning and dental care are just as important for your pet’s health and well-being?
At The Pet Stop Grooming Parlour in Sherwood, we believe in holistic care for all pets, and that means keeping an eye (and nose!) on those ears and teeth too. Here’s why:
Ear Hygiene: More Than Just A Quick Wipe
Dogs and cats — especially those with floppy ears or lots of hair in the ear canal — are prone to wax and debris build-up, moisture retention, and infections.
Why regular ear cleaning matters:
- Prevents painful ear infections
- Reduces odours and itching
- Helps spot early signs of ear mites or yeast
- Keeps ears free from debris and moisture
Warning signs to watch for:
- Excessive scratching
- Head shaking
- Redness or swelling
- A strong, yeasty smell
Regular gentle ear cleaning during grooming helps keep your pet comfy and infection-free — and allows your groomer to alert you if they spot something unusual!
Dental Hygiene: Not Just A Fresh Breath Fix
Just like humans, pets are at risk of plaque build-up, gum disease, and tooth loss if dental care is ignored. And poor pet dental health can affect their heart, liver, and kidneys over time!
Why regular dental checks are essential:
- Prevents painful gum disease and tooth decay
- Freshens breath (yes, really!)
- Helps maintain overall health and longevity
- Allows early detection of issues like broken teeth or oral growths
Read our full pet dental health guide.
Why Teeth Brushing Isn’t Typically Done At The Parlour
While we love making pets look and feel their best, teeth brushing isn’t a standard part of most grooming services, and here’s why:
- Not All Pets Tolerate It
Many pets get anxious or squirmy when you go near their mouth—especially in a new environment like a parlour. Forcing it can stress the pet and create negative associations with grooming overall. - Time Constraints
Grooming slots are carefully scheduled to include baths, drying, clipping, nail trims, and more. Dental care requires extra time that isn’t always feasible in a busy parlour setting. - Health and Safety Risks
Unlike brushing or nail trimming, dental care can get tricky if a dog has gum disease, tooth pain, or mouth injuries. We aren’t veterinarians, so we don’t want to risk causing harm.
How To Brush Your Dog’s Teeth At Home
You can – and should – keep your pet’s teeth clean at home. Here’s how:
1. Get The Right Gear
Use a pet-specific toothbrush or a finger brush. Only use pet-friendly toothpaste (never human toothpaste—it’s toxic to pets!).
2. Start Slow And Make It Positive
- Let your pet sniff and taste the toothpaste.
- Gently lift their lip and brush a few front teeth for a few seconds.
- Praise and reward after each session (even if it’s just 10 seconds!).
3. Build Up Gradually
Start with short sessions and slowly increase the duration. Aim for 2–3 times per week if daily isn’t possible.
4. Focus On The Outer Surfaces
Most plaque builds up on the outer parts of the teeth, especially the molars and canines—so even if they won’t let you do a full job, some brushing is better than none.
Bonus Tips
- Dental chews, water and/or food additives, vet-approved sprays and certain food can help between brushes.
- Always check your pet’s mouth for signs of trouble: bad breath, red gums, tartar build-up, or loose teeth.
What We Offer At Our Parlour In Sherwood
At The Pet Stop Grooming Parlour, we offer:
- Gentle ear cleaning (with pet-safe solutions)
- Regular checks during grooming for any signs of discomfort or infection
It’s all part of our mission to keep your pet healthy, happy, and looking their best — inside and out!
Final Thoughts
Grooming is more than just looking good — it’s about feeling good too. Clean ears and healthy teeth play a huge role in your pet’s comfort and quality of life.
Here’s to wagging tails and sparkling smiles!