Cool for the Summer: Pet Grooming Tips to Keep Your Dog or Cat Cool, Comfortable, and Healthy

When temperatures climb, grooming isn’t just a beauty boost — it’s essential summer care for your pet’s health and comfort

As summer heats up, your pet might need more than shade and a water bowl to stay comfortable — they may also need a fresh grooming routine. Summer grooming for pets isn’t just about looking great (though that’s a bonus!); it plays an important role in keeping dogs and cats healthy, happy, and cool when temperatures rise.

At Onalaska Animal Hospital, our grooming services are designed with your pet’s comfort in mind, especially during the warmest months of the year. Whether your furry friend needs a quick tidy-up or a full summer spa day, here’s what you should know.

Why summer grooming matters for your pet

You might think grooming is just about aesthetics, but it’s actually a key part of summer pet care. Here’s how regular grooming can help your pet beat the heat:

• Keeps them cooler. A well-maintained coat improves air circulation and helps regulate body temperature. But not all pets benefit from trimming — in fact, many breeds rely on their coat for insulation from both heat and sun. That’s why following grooming guidance tailored to your pet’s breed and coat type is important.
• Reduces matting and discomfort. Mats can trap heat and moisture close to the skin, making your pet miserable and leading to painful hot spots or skin infections.
• Supports skin and coat health. Brushing removes loose fur, spreads natural oils, and keeps your pet’s coat in top shape.
• Makes it easier to spot problems. Regular grooming helps you catch things like fleas, ticks, lumps, or skin irritations early.
• Controls shedding. Many pets “blow” their coat in summer — regular grooming helps keep that under control and your floors a little cleaner.

What to include in a summer grooming routine

Every pet is different, and not all need a haircut for summer. But most benefit from a seasonal grooming routine that includes:

Brush and deshed to reduce heat and shedding

Brushing is one of the simplest ways to help your pet stay cool and mat-free. Professional tools like the FURminator, undercoat rakes, and slicker brushes can remove loose fur more effectively than standard brushes, especially for thick or double-coated pets, including breeds like Huskies, Labs, Golden Retrievers, and even some long-haired cats.

Bathe away dirt, allergens, and summer buildup

A bath can help remove dirt, allergens, and dander that build up during summer adventures. Just be sure to use pet-safe shampoo and don’t overdo it — too many baths can dry out your pet’s skin.

Trim smartly — but skip the shave for some breeds

Some pets benefit from a light trim in the summer, especially those with long or curly coats that can get tangled or heavy. But be careful — shaving isn’t right for every pet. Double-coated breeds like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds have fur that acts as insulation, helping to protect them from heat and sunburn. Shaving these pets can do more harm than good. When in doubt, ask our groomer — we’ll help you choose the best approach for your pet’s coat and comfort.

Protect paws and keep nails trimmed for summer safety}

Summer walks on sidewalks and hot pavement can be tough on paws. Regular nail trims and paw pad checks help prevent discomfort and injury.

Clean ears and maintain dental care to prevent summer health issues

Floppy ears, warm weather, and extra activity can lead to a buildup and infection. Regular ear cleaning is key, and summer is a great time to freshen up your pet’s dental routine.

Grooming services at Onalaska Animal Hospital

Our grooming team works hand in paw with our veterinary staff to provide professional grooming in Onalaska that’s safe, gentle, and tailored to your pet’s needs. Whether your dog needs a summer tidy-up or your cat needs a good brushing, we’re here to help them feel their best — and stay cool and comfortable all season long.

We also specialize in grooming pets with special health needs, anxiety, or mobility concerns. If you have questions or aren’t sure what kind of grooming your pet needs, ask — we’re happy to guide you.

A happy, healthy summer starts with grooming

With the right grooming routine, your dog or cat can enjoy everything summer offers — from sunny backyard lounging to a splash in the kiddie pool or a breezy evening walk. 

Let’s make this your pet’s most comfortable summer yet. Call 608-668-6777 to schedule a grooming appointment — and let our gentle, skilled team help your pet stay cool, clean, and happy all season long.