Happy Tails Spa has quite the variation of animals. FromGreat Danes to Chihuahuas, our client list varies in size, breeds, and coattype. Most dog breeds can be kept looking neat and tangle-free with only aquick brushing a couple of times a week. But in some cases, with mostlylong-haired breeds, if their coat isn't frequently brushed, it can becomematted. A mat usually starts off as a tangle in the dog's fur. As time goes on, if the tangle isn't removed, it can retain dirt and debris and forms clumps of matted fur on the dogs coat. These mats pull at the skin and can even cause sores and wounds on your pet's body. Most people, when they think their dog is looking a little unkempt and dirty, will likely resort togiving the dog a bath. The issue with bathing a dog before removing little tangles and mats is that the knotted fur tightens once the wet dog hair is dried. If they tighten, they become more difficult and more painful to remove. The best solution to matting is prevention. Take the time, even if it's only a couple of minutes a day, to brush out your dog's fur. Using a good brush, target the problem areas such as behind the ears, inside the elbows, around the privates and rear of the dog, and around their neck. Go over the whole dog with a fine-tooth comb to make sure it's tangle free. If, for any reason, your dog does become severely matted, the best solution is to have it shaved by a professional, as shown in the photo above. De-matting, though it is offered by many dog groomers, can be very painful because the only option to remove mats is using a variety of tools that pull and break the mat. Shaving eliminates the mats by using professional clippers that shave underneath the mat and close to the skin. It takes less time and is easier on your pet's body. So just remember, if you do decide to own a pet, especially one with longer hair, it requires more time and responsibility. If you do not have the time to groom your pet, make sure you take it frequently to get professionally groomed to prevent mats and further issues with your pet's fur. HappyTails Spa offers a Bath and Brush package that helps keep your pet's fur in better condition in between grooming sessions, for a fraction of the price. It includes a bath with two shampoos and conditioner, anal gland expression, free tooth brushing, thorough fur brushing and de-tangling, and free nail trimming and grinding. Keep Wagging,Happy Tails Spa509-736-6616
