It's that time of year again.....

[soniakanavle]

I love my FURminator too, but believe it or not, most that fur was just what I swept up that was hiding around under the sofa/behind his crate/lurking in dark corners lol.

I don't see that much a difference in the blade than any fine toothed slicker brush, but I only use it during shedding season as well.

Originally Posted by soniakanavle

I don't see that much a difference in the blade than any fine toothed slicker brush, but I only use it during shedding season as well.

The difference is that the furminator was designed off of, and essentially still is, a clipper blade! It's an old technique called "carding" where groomers figured out if they use a clipper blade like an undercoat rake, they can slice out more coat. It's especially useful for terrier-type breeds where they need a harsh coat, as this lends itself well to that texture. I feel the problem is these things are now being mass produced, and little information about how serious a blade it is isn't give to the consumer!

The way all of you are using it is fine, though, since as you mentioned, you're only using it during the highest shedding season. However, prolonged use CAN damage the coat and even go as far as to slice guard hairs if used incorrectly! Slickers, combs, and rakes won't ever go this far.

[Gypsy Wolf]

I use a shedding blade (looks like a loop of metal teeth - used for horses, too) then a coat "rake" (really gets the most out of the coat) and follow that up with a slicker brush. Luckily, I live in FL, so our dogs do not develop the heavy undercoat of a northern dog.
There is a company that will spin your dog's fur until yarn and make you a sweater. I am not sure if I think that is cool or creepy.

[soniakanavle]

Originally Posted by Lunas Mom

There is a company that will spin your dog's fur until yarn and make you a sweater. I am not sure if I think that is cool or creepy.

Hahaha yeah, my neighbor did that with her Chow Chow's fur. I can't decide if it's cool or creepy either lol. I guess it would be warm but would be bad in the rain. No one wants to smell like a wet dog.