Every pet owner knows the joy of picking up their furry friend from a professional grooming session—they look, smell, and feel amazing! But how do you keep that fresh-from-the-salon look and feel lasting as long as possible? We sat down (virtually!) with Cory, who has been part of the Vinjon’s Kennel family for 18 years, working as both Operations Manager and Pet Stylist, to hear his insider tips. From maintaining a healthy coat to battling those tricky tangles, Cory shares invaluable advice so your beloved dog or cat can stay comfortable, clean, and paw-sitively perfect between grooming appointments.

What are the most important things pet owners can do at home to keep their dog or cat’s coat healthy between grooming appointments?

Dogs and cats come in all shapes and sizes—and just like pets, their coats come in all different forms. Whether your pet needs daily or weekly brushing, consistency really is key. A balanced diet is also huge—it plays an important role not only in coat health but in your pet’s overall well-being too.

How often should owners be brushing their pets, and does the frequency change based on breed, coat type, or age?

This definitely varies from pet to pet, even within the same breed! For example, double-coated dogs usually “blow out” their coat twice a year—meaning they shed constantly, both in summer and winter (haha). Short-haired pets shed less, but they still benefit from regular brushing. What I tell most clients is that brushing at least twice a week is a great goal. Not only does it maintain the coat, but it’s also an awesome bonding exercise with your pet.

What are some common mistakes pet owners make when trying to maintain their pet’s coat at home, and how can they avoid them?

A big mistake I see is brushing just the top coat and not getting down to the base of the hair. You want to brush from the base and work upward at an angle to really prevent mats and tangles. Another slip-up is waiting too long to brush—life gets busy, and before you know it, grooming feels overwhelming. If you’re new to pet ownership or to your pet’s breed, it’s always best to talk to a pet stylist. One of my favorite parts of the job is when clients bring in their pup and we can break down the brushing process step by step—even show you how it’s done so you feel confident at home.

Are there specific tools or brushes you recommend for different types of coats (smooth, curly, double-coated, long-haired, etc.)?

Absolutely! For double coats, curly coats, or long drop coats, I swear by the Chris Christensen slicker brush—it’s a fantastic investment. For pets with longer coats, you’ll also want a comb handy. And for short-haired breeds? A rubber hand-held brush works like magic.

What’s the best way for owners to handle tangles or small mats before they become a bigger issue?

Start with your slicker brush. It helps break up mats into smaller tangles, which are much easier to handle. From there, switch to your comb. This way you’re not painfully pulling at your pet’s hair—it keeps things gentle and effective.

Besides brushing, are there other areas of grooming (nails, ears, teeth, eyes) that owners should tend to regularly between professional sessions?

Nails, teeth, and eyes are huge! A regular at-home routine should include checking those areas along with brushing. Grooming isn’t just about appearances—it’s about health. A healthy pet is a happy pet.

If a pet hates being brushed, what tips do you give owners to help their dog or cat become more comfortable with at-home grooming?

First, stay calm! Pets look to us for reassurance, so your energy matters. Introduce the brush slowly: keep it nearby when you’re relaxing together, let your pet sniff it, and even start by brushing with the bristle side facing up before you start on their coat. Over time, they’ll feel more comfortable. And, of course—treats always help! A peanut butter lick mat or a helper handing out snacks can make a world of difference. With patience, most pets adjust. But if brushing continues to be a challenge, don’t worry—bring them down to us at Vinjon’s. We’re always happy to help and guide you through it.

After 18 years with Vinjon’s Kennel, Cory knows better than anyone that grooming isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good, too. With consistency, the right tools, and a little patience, you can keep your furry friends happy, healthy, and paw-sitively perfect between appointments.