Tips For Getting Through Shedding Season

Winter is behind us now, and we’re looking forward to enjoying some warm weather. However, for pet parents, there is a down side to spring: shedding. This time of year is a peak shedding time for many of our patients. We can help! Here, a Lakeville, MN vet offers some advice on getting through shedding season.

Brushing

Brushing your pet daily is good for many reasons. For one thing, you’ll be grabbing all that dead fur with the brush before it ends up on your sofa. This is also a good time to check your pet for bumps, bruises, or other signs of illness or injury. You may want to wear an apron for this. If you have a dog, take Fido outside to brush him. That way, the fur will just blow away.

Hair Busting

We recommend vacuuming frequently, especially as your furry pal is changing into their summer outfit. Do your pet’s favorite ‘flopping’ spots and high traffic areas daily, and follow up with deeper cleanings every week. Use a damp sponge or washcloth, a dryer sheet, rubber dish gloves, or a squeegee to remove fur from your furniture and upholstery. You may also want to get a steam cleaner. These are great to have on hand for messes!

Bedding

This is a good time to wash your pet’s bedding. Use unscented detergent and the hot cycles on your washer and dryer. Beds that aren’t machine-washable can be vacuumed.

Slipcovers

Even if you don’t use slipcovers all year, you may need them during shedding season. Choose ones that are machine washable and easy to get on and off.

Clothing

Your furry friend may thoughtfully try to share their fur with you at this time of year. Choose pieces that don’t attract fur, like denim, silk, and nylon or polyester blends. It’s also a good idea to keep a lint roller or ten on hand. If you just want to quickly remove fur from a single piece of clothing, toss it in the dryer for a few minutes with a damp washcloth.

Guests

People with allergies are often quite miserable in spring. Stock up on tissues and OTC allergy meds, and keep them on hand. Changing your air filter is also important.

Please contact us, your local Lakeville, MN vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!