Before grooming dogs and cats, people prepare the necessary grooming tools in advance to save time, avoid confusion, and prevent failures during the operation, and they familiarize themselves with the instructions for using the tools beforehand. However, to create a more beautiful pet dog or cat, besides preparing grooming tools in advance, selecting suitable grooming tools for the pet is also very crucial!

　　1. Common Tools for Combing and Trimming Fur

　　1. Highly Practical Pin Brush

　　This pin brush is suitable for cats and medium-long haired dogs, such as Poodles, Pomeranians, and other fluffy breeds; some dogs that do not plan to keep long hair like Maltese, Shih Tzu, or Yorkshire Terriers can also use it, making it a very versatile brush. When combing, it is better to proceed layer by layer in an orderly manner. If there are small tangles or loose fur, they can be brushed out. No strong force is needed to easily achieve the desired effect, and the pet will feel less pain.

　　2. Handle Brush for Growing Hair

　　This is suitable for long-haired dogs wanting to grow their hair and maintain its gloss, such as Maltese, Shih Tzu, or Yorkshire Terriers. The characteristic of a handle brush is that it is less likely to damage the surface hair cuticles. When using it, comb in the direction of hair growth layer by layer. If you feel any part is not smooth or if there are small tangles, hold the midsection or root of the hair, comb the ends first, then comb towards the roots.

　　3. Versatile Row Comb

　　Most breeds can use this tool. However, if the hair has not been combed for a long time or there are severe tangles, it is recommended to first use a pin brush or handle brush then use the row comb, which makes it easier to manage and more comfortable for the pet.

Pet Grooming Tools

　　2. Common Items for Cleaning Ears

　　1. Hemostats and Ear Hair Removal Powder

　　When grooming dogs and cats, the purpose of hemostats is not to stop bleeding but mainly to remove excess hair inside the dog's ear canal. Before plucking ear hair, put ear hair powder inside the ear to reduce the pain caused when pulling hair.

　　2. Ear Cleanser or Ear Cleaning Solution

　　The secretions in a dog’s ears are mostly oily. Using ear cleanser or cleaning solution can not only dissolve these secretions easily but also has bactericidal and deodorizing effects. If the ears have no special problems, apply an appropriate amount of ear cleaner into the ear canal, gently massage the ear base to dissolve or soften the secretions thoroughly, then wipe all the visible areas of the outer ear canal with cotton. Dogs will often shake their ears afterward; repeat the wiping process again.

　3. Cotton and Cotton Swabs

　　Both can be purchased at a pharmacy. Cotton swabs can help clean the ear grooves but must be wiped from the inside of the ear canal outward to avoid pushing secretions further inside; however, veterinarians usually do not recommend their use because incorrect operation can cause serious consequences.

Pet Nail Clippers

　3. Tools for Trimming Nails

　　1. Choose Straight Scissors According to Size

　　Straight scissors come in different sizes; owners can choose appropriate products according to their dog's size. The general method is to apply force to both sides of the nail.

　　2. Guillotine Clippers for Medium and Large Dogs

　　This tool is suitable for medium and large dogs or dogs with thicker nails. The method is to put the excess nail part into the hole and then apply pressure up and down.

　　3. Hemostatic Powder for Injuries

　　Pets' nails contain blood vessels, so occasionally cutting may cause bleeding. Although direct pressure can stop bleeding, if the cut part of the blood vessel is thicker, it might be hard to stop the bleeding. Hemostatic powder should be applied to the bleeding vessel on the nail before all blood flows out for the best effect; thus, the powder should be kept handy.

　　4. Nail File for Smoothing

　　After trimming all nails, file each nail to prevent freshly trimmed nails from scratching people or objects. However, nails that are bleeding from trimming should not be filed, as filing will worsen the bleeding. This is very important to note.