I remember the first time I brought my dog for a professional grooming. I expected a fresh smell and a silky coat, but what really surprised me was how much his skin health improved after adding a few specialist treatments. At Dogtown, I've seen time and again that it's not just about looking good—it's about feeling good, right down to the skin. If you’re a pet owner in Gloucester, MA or anywhere else, you probably want your puppy or kitty to feel their best, too.
When it comes to grooming, most of us think baths, trims, and brushes. But today, grooming is so much more. There are add-on services that can transform a regular grooming into a holistic wellness experience, directly improving your pet’s skin health. After countless before-and-after cases I've observed, I’m convinced that these enhancements are worth exploring if you want your pet’s skin to remain healthy, hydrated, and itch-free.
Gentle care brings healthy skin.
Why does skin health matter for pets?
Our pets’ skin isn’t just a covering; it’s a mighty barrier against bacteria, allergens, and environmental harm. According to Johnson College of Technology, a pet's skin and hair coat make up about 10 to 15% of their total body weight. That’s a staggering fact that really changed how I view pet care. If we ignore skin health, it’s not just fur that suffers—it’s our furry friends’ comfort, immunity, and happiness, too.
From my experience, skin issues can sneak up when least expected: dry patches in winter, itching from allergies, or redness from mats. Regular grooming alone helps, as Virginia Tech News explains, because matting not only irritates skin but makes temperature control difficult. But for many pets, especially those with sensitive or problem skin, I recommend certain grooming add-ons to go a step further.
What are grooming add-ons?
Grooming add-ons are unique treatments or services tacked onto a standard grooming session. It could be a moisturizing balm, a medicated rinse, or even a special brush-out technique. At Dogtown, I’ve seen that these extras can make real changes in skin condition over time, reducing dryness, itchiness, and discomfort—especially for pets who visit for routine grooming or cat grooming appointments.
According to a recent study, 81% of U.S. dog owners groomed their pet at least once in the last year. This highlights how vital grooming is to most families, and why having options to upgrade that experience should be available to everyone.
With that in mind, here are the five add-ons I’ve recommended the most for improving your pet’s skin health.
1. Deep moisturizing treatments
Dryness is a leading cause of itchy, flaky, and irritated skin in pets. Deep moisturizing treatments, such as hydrating masks or conditioners, can replenish lost moisture. These treatments soak into the skin and coat, leaving pets supple and comfortable.
- Reduces flakes and visible dryness
- Fights brittle fur and dullness
- Can be tailored for allergies or sensitivities
I often see clients return from dry winter walks with pets suffering from rough, tight skin. A moisturizing treatment not only soothes but also protects, providing a barrier against the elements. At Dogtown, we frequently pair these treatments with nail trims for an all-in-one renewal. You can learn more about this service on our grooming page.
2. Oatmeal or medicated baths
Some pets experience repeat skin flare-ups—redness, hives, or even hot spots. When I see this, I often turn to oatmeal or medicated baths. These add-ons can calm inflamed spots and support overall healing.
- Soothes itching and inflammation
- Provides a natural barrier for sensitive skin
- Helps relieve discomfort from allergies or irritants
Many pets who visit for boarding especially benefit from these baths, as new places can sometimes bring environmental surprises. Oatmeal is gentle yet effective, while medicated baths are specifically designed for issues like bacterial or fungal irritation (see advice on bath frequency from Virginia Tech News).
3. Shed control and deshedding treatments
Shedding is more than an annoyance—it impacts your pet's skin, too. Excessive undercoat traps moisture, bacteria, and allergens close to the skin. Deshedding add-ons, using tools or special solutions, can remove dead hair safely.
- Reduces risk of matting and “hot spots”
- Keeps air circulating at the skin level
- Improves comfort, especially for double-coated breeds
One of my favorite moments is brushing out a dog after a deshedding treatment—the difference is visible, but the relief is obvious, too. Dogs are more playful and less itchy, even weeks later. I’ve seen this time and again with repeat Day Camp visitors at Dogtown. More about enrichment activities paired with grooming is described on our day camp program page.
4. Paw and nose balm applications
The paws and nose are often overlooked but can become dry, cracked, and sore. Balm add-ons hydrate rough spots, relieving pain and preventing infection.
- Protects against salt, gravel, or extreme heat/cold
- Heals cracked noses and paw pads
- Acts as a shield for urban pets or frequent walkers
I've seen city pets, especially, benefit from balms after walks on hot asphalt or during harsh Massachusetts winters. Application only takes a moment during a grooming visit and brings long-lasting relief.
5. Skin-health-focused brushing techniques
Brushing isn’t just about fluff. Special techniques and tools stimulate skin circulation and clear out irritants. When performed by trained staff, this targeted brushing can help distribute your pet’s natural oils, keeping skin supple and coats shiny.
- Promotes oil distribution to avoid dryness
- Stimulates natural healing through massage
- Removes dust, dirt, and allergens gently
On busy days at Dogtown, I notice that a simple switch in brush or technique leads to less scratching and a happier pet by the end of the appointment. For cats who stress during grooming, gentle brushing can also ease anxiety, which I talk more about on our cat grooming services page.
Safety and product selection matters
I always stress the need to choose safe, properly handled grooming products. According to a recent study, diluted grooming products are more likely to be contaminated with bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This highlights why reputable places like Dogtown put emphasis on cleanliness and controlled handling of all treatments, ensuring your pet is in safe hands throughout their wellness or training visits.
Access to grooming remains a challenge for some families, with research showing that 92% of pet owners encounter at least one barrier such as cost or transportation. This is why Dogtown offers package options and à la carte services to make add-ons more accessible. Flexible scheduling, free pre-enrollment assessments, and ongoing support are all in place to support your pet’s lasting well-being.
Conclusion: Wellness starts with the skin
I’ve witnessed firsthand at Dogtown how transformative grooming add-ons can be for pets’ skin. Deep moisturizers, specialty baths, deshedding, balms, and expert brushing all offer more than a superficial shine—they create lasting comfort and joy for your dog or cat. If you’re ready to take the first step in keeping your pet happy from the inside out, book an assessment or next grooming at Dogtown. Your pet’s healthiest skin (and happiest wag or purr) might only be an add-on away.
Frequently asked questions
What are grooming add-ons for pets?
Grooming add-ons are extra treatments or services that go beyond the basics, such as baths or haircuts, to specifically address skin, coat, or comfort issues. This includes moisturizing treatments, medicated baths, deshedding, balms for paws and noses, and specialized brushing techniques.
How do grooming add-ons help skin?
Grooming add-ons improve skin by adding moisture, calming inflammation, aiding healing of dry or irritated spots, and protecting vulnerable areas like paws or noses. With professional handling, these extras keep your pet comfortable while supporting long-term skin health.
Which add-on is best for dry skin?
Deep moisturizing treatments are usually the best choice for dry skin, as they hydrate and restore the skin barrier. Oatmeal baths and gentle conditioners also help relieve dryness and discomfort, as seen in many cases at Dogtown.
Are pet grooming add-ons worth it?
Yes, grooming add-ons are often worth it if your pet suffers from dryness, allergies, or regular skin discomfort. I’ve noted visible improvements in both skin condition and overall happiness after these treatments. They turn an ordinary grooming into a wellness session, with lasting benefits.
Where can I buy grooming add-ons?
Some add-ons can be purchased for home use, but for maximum safety and effect, I recommend scheduling a professional grooming session at a trusted facility like Dogtown’s grooming center. This ensures the treatments are safely applied and suited to your pet’s needs.
