Manage the fur — with expert solutions for shedding dogs

Shedding is a natural process for dogs that helps them get rid of old, damaged, or excess fur. Understanding why dogs shed can help you better manage it: • Seasonal Changes: Many dogs shed heavily twice a year (usually spring and fall) to prepare for changing temperatures. They shed their winter coat in spring and their summer coat in fall. • Breed Differences: Some breeds shed more than others. Double-coated breeds like German Shepherds, Huskies, and Golden Retrievers tend to shed more than single-coated breeds. Some breeds like Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Yorkshire Terriers shed very little. • Health and Nutrition: A dog's coat health is directly tied to their overall health and nutrition. Poor diet, dehydration, or health issues can lead to increased shedding. • Stress and Anxiety: Dogs may shed more when they're stressed or anxious. Major life changes, moving, or adding new pets to the household can trigger stress shedding. • Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, nursing, and hormonal imbalances can all affect shedding patterns in dogs. • Age: Puppies shed their soft puppy coat as they mature. Senior dogs may experience changes in coat quality and shedding patterns as they age. While shedding is normal, excessive shedding can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue that needs attention.

It's important to understand the difference between normal shedding and excessive shedding that might indicate a health problem. Here's how to tell if your dog's shedding is normal: Signs of Normal Shedding: • Consistent shedding throughout the year with heavier periods during seasonal changes • Even shedding across the body (not patchy) • Healthy skin underneath the fur (not red, inflamed, or flaky) • No change in your dog's behavior or comfort level Signs That Shedding May Be Abnormal: • Sudden increase in shedding that isn't tied to seasonal changes • Patchy hair loss or bald spots • Red, inflamed, or irritated skin • Excessive scratching, licking, or biting at the skin • Dull, dry, or brittle coat • Other symptoms like lethargy, weight changes, or increased thirst Common Health Issues That Can Cause Excessive Shedding: • Allergies (food, environmental, or contact allergies) • Parasites (fleas, mites, or ticks) • Fungal or bacterial skin infections • Hormonal imbalances (thyroid issues, Cushing's disease) • Stress or anxiety • Nutritional deficiencies • Autoimmune disorders • Certain medications If you notice any of the abnormal shedding signs or have concerns about your dog's shedding, it's best to consult with a veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues.

While you can't completely stop a healthy dog from shedding, there are many ways to manage it and keep your home cleaner: 1. Regular Grooming • Brush your dog frequently — daily for heavy shedders, weekly for light shedders • Use the right tools: slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, de-shedding tools, or grooming gloves depending on your dog's coat type • Consider professional grooming every 4-8 weeks for breeds with high maintenance coats • Bathe your dog regularly with appropriate dog shampoo (but don't over-bathe, as this can dry the skin) 2. Nutrition and Hydration • Feed a high-quality, balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids • Consider omega-3 and omega-6 supplements for coat health (after consulting with your vet) • Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water • Ask your vet about specific nutritional needs for your dog's breed and age 3. Home Management • Vacuum frequently with a vacuum designed for pet hair • Use washable slipcovers on furniture • Keep lint rollers handy throughout your home • Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture airborne fur • Designate specific areas for your dog to rest to contain most of the shedding 4. Environmental Control • Maintain a comfortable temperature and humidity level in your home • Reduce stress triggers that might cause increased shedding • Create a consistent routine for your dog to minimize anxiety 5. Regular Health Checks • Monitor your dog's skin and coat for any changes • Keep up with flea and tick prevention • Schedule regular vet check-ups to catch any health issues early

At Telavets, we understand that excessive shedding can be frustrating for both you and your dog. Here's how we can help manage your dog's shedding problems: 1. Virtual Consultations for Accurate Assessment Our experienced veterinarians can examine your dog via video call to determine if their shedding is normal or if there might be an underlying health issue. We'll discuss your dog's medical history, diet, environment, and grooming routine to get a complete picture. 2. Diagnostic Guidance If your dog's shedding seems excessive, we can help determine what diagnostic steps might be needed. We might recommend specific tests to rule out: • Allergies • Hormonal imbalances • Nutritional deficiencies • Skin infections or parasites 3. Customized Treatment Plans Based on our assessment, we'll develop a personalized plan to address your dog's shedding, which may include: • Dietary recommendations or supplements to improve coat health • Prescription medications if the shedding is due to allergies or other medical conditions • Specific grooming recommendations for your dog's coat type • Environmental modifications to reduce allergens or stress 4. Next-Day Medication Delivery If your dog needs prescription treatments for conditions causing excessive shedding, we'll deliver any prescribed medications directly to your door with our convenient next-day delivery service. 5. Ongoing Support and Monitoring Managing shedding often requires adjustments over time. We'll schedule follow-up consultations to monitor your dog's progress and modify the treatment plan as needed to achieve the best results.

When your home is covered in dog hair and you're looking for solutions, Telavets offers advantages that traditional vet clinics can't match: • Convenience: Get expert veterinary advice without the stress of transporting your dog to a clinic or cleaning up shed fur in your car. • Comprehensive Approach: We don't just treat symptoms; we look at all factors that could be causing excessive shedding, from diet to environment to underlying health issues. • Specialized Knowledge: Our veterinarians have extensive experience diagnosing and treating skin and coat conditions in dogs of all breeds. • Fast, Effective Solutions: With next-day medication delivery, your dog can start treatment quickly, leading to faster improvement in shedding issues. • Cost-Effective Care: Virtual consultations often cost less than in-person visits, saving you money while still providing quality care. • Personalized Advice: We provide customized recommendations based on your specific dog's breed, age, lifestyle, and shedding patterns. • Continuous Support: We're here for ongoing follow-up to ensure your dog's shedding stays under control long-term. With Telavets, you can transform your home from a fur-covered zone to a cleaner, more comfortable space, while ensuring your dog's coat stays healthy and beautiful. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward managing your dog's shedding!