End-of-Summer Grooming Tips For Pets

End-of-summer grooming tips for pets: Beat shedding, healthy coats & fall prep for dogs/cats in Luzerne County!

End-of-summer is the perfect time to give your pets a little extra grooming love. As the weather starts to shift in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, dogs and cats begin preparing their coats for cooler temperatures. This often means more shedding, tangles, and dry skin for pets. At ParaMount Pet Care, we know that a solid grooming routine keeps pets comfortable, reduces mess at home, and sets them up for a healthy fall season.

Tackle End-of-Summer Shedding

As summer winds down, many pets start to blow their coats in preparation for fall. That extra fur can quickly end up on your floors, furniture, and clothes.

• Brush your pet regularly (daily for heavy shedders, a few times a week for others) using the right tool for their coat. Slicker brushes for longer fur, rubber curry brushes for short-haired breeds.

• Keep sessions short and positive with treats and praise so your pet looks forward to grooming instead of avoiding it.

• Focus on high-shed areas like the chest, hindquarters, and behind the ears, where mats can form easily.

Keep Coats Healthy and Shiny

A healthy coat starts from the inside out, and late summer is a great time to check in on overall skin and coat condition.

• Ensure your pet is eating a balanced diet with quality protein and fatty acids, which support skin and coat health.

• Avoid over-bathing. Too many baths can strip natural oils and cause dryness; for most pets, every 4–6 weeks is enough unless they get especially dirty.

• Use pet-safe shampoos and conditioners formulated for sensitive or dry skin, and rinse thoroughly to prevent irritation.

Prevent Tangles and Mats

Longer-haired dogs and cats are especially prone to tangles as humidity and late-summer playtime take their toll.

• Gently comb through fur behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar area where friction can cause mats.

• If you encounter a tangle, work it out slowly from the ends using a detangling spray. Never yank, which can hurt and create grooming anxiety.

• For pets with consistently matted fur, consider a professional groomer for a fresh trim going into fall.

Paw, Ear, and Tail Check-Up

Grooming is also a great time for a simple health once-over.

• Check paws for cracks, burrs, or grass seeds after summer walks on hot sidewalks and trails; trim fur between paw pads if it collects debris.

• Inspect ears for redness, odor, or buildup, especially for floppy-eared dogs who spent time swimming over the summer.

• Make sure tails are clean and free of tangles, particularly in feathered breeds or long-haired cats.

Prepare for Seasonal Changes

As schedules and weather shift, your grooming routine may need a slight update too.

• Gradually adjust brushing frequency and keep a regular schedule, so fall shedding doesn’t catch you off guard.

• Consider a slightly shorter trim (not a full shave) for long-haired dogs before fall to keep them cleaner and reduce tangles while still protecting them from cooler weather.

• Keep a simple grooming kit handy (brush, comb, pet wipes, nail clippers) so quick touch-ups are easy between professional appointments.

At ParaMount Pet Care, we see how much more comfortable and confident pets feel when they’re clean, brushed, and tangle-free. While we focus on pet sitting and dog walking throughout Luzerne County, we’re always happy to support your at-home grooming routine with helpful tips and consistent care during our visits.

Hire A Pet Sitter Today!

Do you or someone you know need a pet sitter? Then look no further than ParaMount Pet Care! We are the leading pet care professionals in the Luzerne County area. All of our sitters are insured, bonded, trained in pet CPR & first aid, and dedicated to caring for your pets. 

We offer a wide variety of pet sitting services such as in-home pet sitting, routine dog walking, overnight stays, and more! Click here to see all of our services! Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 570-814-1037. We look forward to hearing from you soon! Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram too. We post adorable pictures of pets everyday that you won’t want to miss!