Living in Cape Coral means you get sunshine almost every day of the year, and for our dogs, that’s a blessing and a challenge. All that outdoor time — whether it’s chasing lizards along the fence line, splashing in a kiddie pool, or tagging along on boat days — can leave them a little… let’s say “less than fresh.”
I still remember stopping by a home near Tarpon Point Marina where the family’s golden retriever, Sandy, had just returned from a beach trip to Sanibel. She looked like she’d had the time of her life, but her fur told another story — a salty, sandy mess that was working its way into the living room carpet. The owners were laughing about it, but they knew a good grooming session was coming.
Regular grooming isn’t just about keeping your dog looking sharp; it’s a big part of keeping them healthy here in Southwest Florida. With our humidity, mats and tangles can trap moisture close to the skin, creating the perfect environment for hot spots and skin irritations. A good brush-through, especially after a swim, helps keep their coat in top shape and their skin healthy.
Bathing is important too, but here’s the trick — not too often. Over-bathing can strip the natural oils that protect their skin, which can actually make them itchy. A gentle, dog-safe shampoo every few weeks (or after especially messy adventures) usually does the trick. And for dogs who can’t resist a roll in the grass — or worse — a quick rinse with the hose can work wonders between baths.
Nails are another thing that sneak up on people here. Since we don’t have many natural surfaces that wear nails down, regular trims are a must. Long nails can throw off a dog’s gait and even cause discomfort when walking on our hard tile floors or concrete patios.
And here’s a little Cape Coral bonus tip: if your pup spends time near the canals or the river, check their ears regularly. The combination of water, heat, and humidity can make ear infections more common. A quick wipe after swimming can help prevent problems.
Keeping up with grooming means your dog stays comfortable, smells fresh, and is ready for all the fun this city offers — from morning walks along the Cape Coral Parkway to lazy evenings in the backyard. And while you handle the baths and brush-outs, we’ll keep your yard clean so they’ve always got a safe, fresh space to strut their stuff afterward.
