### Tips for Grooming Your Pets in Summer When summer arrives with its intense heat, it's natural to think that shaving your pets might help them stay cool. However, most experts advise against shaving your pets, especially cats and dogs, because their fur is designed to regulate their body temperature. Here are some tips to help your pets stay cool during the summer: 1. **Avoid Shaving**: Generally, it's not recommended to shave your pets. Their fur helps keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Shaving can interfere with this natural temperature regulation. 2. **Special Cases**: Some dogs with very thick coats might benefit from a summer shave. If your dog has a thick coat and seems to suffer from the heat, consult your veterinarian. Avoid shaving short-haired breeds as they can get sunburned. 3. **Leave Some Fur**: If you decide to shave your thick-coated dog, leave at least an inch of hair to protect them from the sun's rays. 4. **Outdoor Dogs**: Dogs that stay outside all the time, have matted coats, or are often wet might benefit from shaving to prevent conditions like myiasis (maggots in the fur). 5. **Monitor for Overheating**: Watch for signs of overheating, such as breathing problems, excessive panting, drooling, weakness, stupor, elevated heart rate, seizures, vomiting, high temperature, and bloody diarrhea. If your pet shows these signs, get them to a veterinarian immediately. 6. **Provide Shade and Water**: Ensure your pets have access to shady areas and plenty of fresh water to help them stay cool. By following these tips, you can help your pets stay comfortable and safe during the hot summer months.