As summer fades away, ushering in the crisp, cool fall breeze, it’s time to shift our focus towards helping our dogs recover from the harsh summer conditions, while preparing them for the colder months ahead. Here’s a grooming checklist to ensure your dog remains healthy and comfortable:

1. Brushing:

   • With the onset of fall, dogs begin shedding their summer coats to prepare for the winter. Regular brushing will help remove dead hair, prevent matting which could lead to skin irritation, and distribute the dog’s natural oils to keep their coat healthy and shiny​¹​.

2. Bathing:

   • A good bath will help to remove any dirt, debris, and allergens accumulated over the summer. It's also a good practice to check for ticks, fleas, and other pests during the bath.

3. Paw Care:

   • Summer activities might have left your dog’s paws chapped, cracked, or injured. Inspect and clean your dog’s paws regularly, and use paw balm to soothe and heal them. This will also be a good time to trim the nails​²​.

4. Skin and Coat Repair:

   • Repairing summer-damaged skin and fur is crucial. Too much sun can damage the skin and coat of dogs similar to humans. A deep clean to remove any residual chlorine (from swimming) and general dirt will help refresh your dog’s skin and coat​³​.

5. Heal Heat-Damaged Paws and Coats:

   • The dry air and warm temperatures of summer may have affected your dog’s paws and coat. Addressing this through moisturizing and possibly consulting with your vet for any severe conditions will be beneficial​⁴​.

6. Ear Care:

   • Check your dog’s ears for any signs of infection, irritation, or pests. Cleaning your dog's ears as needed will help prevent infections.

7. Dental Care:

   • A routine dental check-up and cleaning is advisable to ensure your dog’s oral health is on track.

8. Professional Grooming:

   • Consider visiting a professional groomer to have your dog thoroughly checked and groomed.

9. Vet Check-up:

   • A general check-up with the vet can help identify and address any other issues that may have arisen during the summer.

Each step in this checklist not only contributes to the overall well-being of your dog but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion as you venture together into the beauty of fall.