PetSmart(R) Pampers Pets so They Can Love the Fur They're In

PHOENIX, AZ -- (Marketwire) -- 08/25/09 -- Imagine going an entire year without washing your hair, clipping your nails or brushing your teeth. Hard to believe for humans, but it's a reality for hundreds of thousands of pets each year.

While professional grooming can put the sass back into the step of a favorite pet, the more important health and wellness benefits of a groom can't be overlooked. Yet, according to a recent PetSmart® (NASDAQ: PETM) survey, only about half of all pet parents are aware of the health benefits of professional pet grooming.

Short-, medium- and long-haired dogs can all benefit from the once-over professional groomers perform during every grooming visit. Regular grooming can help prevent or identify a wide variety of issues that impact the pet and pet families including:

• Skin and paw disorders such as allergy problems or cracked pads
  
  
• Painful mats between paws which can cause chafe and irritation
  
  
• Bad breath and tarter leading to periodontal disease
  
  
• Shedding, which can increase pet parent allergies or leave clumps of fur in the home

VIDEO: Demonstration of grooming techniques (Short-Haired Dog)

"Just like any other member of your family, you wouldn't neglect to take them to the doctor for a health check up, dentist for a teeth cleaning or salon for a hair trim," said Linda Erickson, PetSmart's resident pet grooming expert. "Our pets have the same basic needs. Professional grooming and basic at-home upkeep is an important way to keep pets healthy and happy."

VIDEO: Demonstration of grooming techniques (Long-Haired Dog)

Looking Good, Feeling Great

Much like human coiffures, the right cut and trim from a professional groomer can give body, bounce and shine to the most unmanageable mane. Bathing pets regularly and with the proper shampoo also helps to remove loose hair and keeps pets smelling fresh. PetSmart grooming services, such as the FURminator Shedless Treatment, reduce excess shedding and help maintain coat health, especially for pets with heavy undercoats.