Bath Time

Ok, so it’s bath time again! You may want to go grab a rain slicker depending on how fun your doggy likes to make this for you. Yeah, we’ve all been there, your dog has taken off leaving soap trails in the house, or even stood in the tub to pick the right time to shake making sure you were as wet as he/she was, or even trying to jump out of the sink and leaving you soaked from waist up from saving your little darling from soaring to the floor. It is the joy of bathing and bonding isn’t it?

Everyone has a different setting for bath time, in the tub, in the sink, outside in the yard or even in a kennel bath area. Either way, make sure you make this time a safe and enjoyable experience.

First you may need to brush your dogs coat depending on your dogs coat type. Mats are harder to work with while your dog is wet. Next you need to pick a shampoo that is good for your dogs coat and skin type. People sometimes use human shampoos. Most people shampoos can be acidic, some are on the alkaline side and may be suitable for your pet. Make sure to check labels. In general the best way to go is to use a good dog shampoo. Your veterinarian can help you pick the best shampoo for your dog. Next you need something to clean your dog with. A plastic scrubby from the cleaning section of the grocery store is a common tool used for bathing. Now to get down and clean. Pun intended. If this is your dog’s first bath, remember they may be fearful of the water sprayer or even the water for that matter. Make sure your dog has cotton in the ears to stop the water from getting in. Start with the head and work your way to the rear of the dog. Lather up the head and rinse carefully as to not get soap in the ears and eyes. Then lather up the rest of the body and scrub really well to get any stains out. Pick up the feet, scrub them well and also the backs of their legs. lather them all up and scrub every area making sure all stains are gone. Make sure to rinse thoroughly as any soap residue will irritate the skin. Bathing too much can dry your dog’s coat. Brushing will stimulate the natural oil glands. If your dog has a skin condition, contact your veterinarian. Now time to dry the little lady. Make sure the coat is thoroughly dry. The dogs with under coats need more attention to make sure they are dry. You may even be able to use an air dryer if your little girl lets you. It may take some time for your girl to dry, so don’t let your dog out in the cold until then. Remember, make this enjoyable for your canine friend and you may not need that rain slicker! Have fun.