Does the spoken word “bath” send your dog scampering under the sofa? Does
it bring dread to you knowing when they're finally free they will charge --
soaking wet -- onto your bed – damp-dog smell and all?
Many challenges result from dogs being afraid of the noise, disliking a
soap scent, or simply not caring for the feel of water on their skin. Nevertheless,
when your dog starts to smell like a dog, it’s bath time. Regardless of how you
do it, dog baths need to be a regular event in your home, no matter how messy
or unpleasant the job can be. Whether you are able to bathe your dog outdoors
in warm weather or need to give baths indoors in a tub, we will offer some
pointers here to help make your job as a fur parent a bit easier.
Start When They’re Young
It’s easier to get a
puppy adjusted to being bathed and having nail trims and grooming than it is
for an older pet. If you do adopt an older dog, present grooming as a fun part
of your routine. Select a special treat for after-the-bath time and perhaps let
them take a favorite water toy in the tub during the rub-a-dub-dub.
Brush First
For dogs with long hair
that easily mats and tangles, purchase a commercial conditioner readily available
at your local pet store. Apply and gently work out mats to prevent your dog from
fearing the brush. Cornstarch or baby oil can also be applied to stubborn mats
to help smooth fur and work out tangles prior to brushing.
Tangled wet fur is to be
avoided. Brush your dog before bathing so fur is smooth and mat-free. Prep by
spraying your dog with a light coat of water or conditioner to smooth the fur
and make brushing more pleasant.
Gentleness is Key
Dogs have sensitive
areas, too, and generally don't like water in their eyes and ears; use a damp
cloth to clean the face while keeping the shampoo and conditioner away from the
area.
If
grooming is problematic for your pet, make sure there's no medical reason for the
discomfort such as raw or itchy patches of skin that can be irritated by
brushing too hard or that result from using a harsh shampoo.
Be
Fast and Efficient
Bathe your dog as quickly as possible to make the
process less stressful for both of you. Be thorough and do a good cleaning, but
whether you're using an indoor tub or shower or bathing in the yard, do it as
quickly as you can. Dry your dog immediately using a pet
chamois, lots of big soft towels, or a hair dryer set to a low setting.
Dogs Will Be Dogs
At some point in their
lives even the perfect dog will get into something incredibly sticky like tar
or sap. Removing this from fur can hurt, but most sticky spots can be softened
by applying peanut butter or shortening and working the mat loose with your fingers;
olive oil can also be used to loosen the mat. For more solid masses like gum,
try freezing the mat with an ice cube and breaking it loose from the fur.
Rest assured, your pet will be a lot happier –
after the fact – when he or she is nice and clean. And, believe it or not, with
a little preparation and the right tools it can actually be fun for both of you
after you get used to the process.
For pet-sitting with a personal touch, contact Dee Hopkins at
517.546.0439 and visit http://www.ddspetpatrol.com.
Written by
Dee Hopkins in collaboration with Ginger Sprinkle at nine dots branding &
marketing company (ginger@ninedotsbranding.com).
