Here a hair, there a hair

Dear Fisher,

Really warm weather is here now and I am wondering if you have an idea about what to do about all my shedding. Hair is everywhere in the house. I play in a big back yard with trees and flowers and lots of great shaded areas. I never see my shedding out there so how come it’s all over the house? My human guy is always brushing his clothes and furniture. And then that awful vacuum cleaner comes out to get the hair out of the carpet. He doesn’t really complain but I know it’s annoying.

Ralphie

Dear Ralphie.

Some pets think that the more the humans obsess about hair on the furniture, the more the hair just appears. Then there are theories that if a human shares his house with a cat or dog, or any other furry critter – and he wears black – the fur will instantly gather and cling to his clothing. This phenomenon is even more extreme if the person in the house is a guest. I find nothing to prove or disprove such a theory, but pet lovers everywhere seem to agree it is true.

Shedding hair is a normal process in dogs, cats, and even people. It is just simply out with the old and in with the new. There is a season for everything, as they say, and you are in your hair-shedding season. Now, just as a caution, if you are shedding excessively and developing bald spots, get to the Vet ASAP. You could be reacting to your dog food, or you might be over-stressed, or something physiological could be going on and you need to get it checked.

Normal shedding is just that – normal. Grooming is very important in order to help the process along. Daily combing routines cut down on the evidence. Your human can do this himself, take you to a groomer (get a good recommendation), or do both. It is going to be much easier for him to do it himself first to see how effective he can be in eliminating his own frustration. Daily brushing is also a great one-on-one bonding between man and dog.

Visit The Amazing Dog Training Man for an excellent article called “How To Reduce Your Dog’s Shedding in 3 To 5 Days”. His recommendations include:

1. Brushing Start at the head and work towards the tail
2. Groom Frequently Establish a regular schedule and include lukewarm bath
3. Carding An extra step to remove excess undercoat

Oftentimes dog lovers will take their dogs to a groomer for nice summer fur cut. You may not approve of you new look, but the extra breezes blowing through your short hair can make you more comfortable and help you enjoy those lazy days of summer.

Your friend,
Fisher

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