Pet Tips of the Week

One of the hardest tasks we have to complete on a regular basis is bathing our furry friends.  Hopefully these tips and tricks will help make the next time a little bit easier!

Soak up these dog bathing tips:

Of course, the easiest solution on warm sunny days, is to bathe your dog outside with the hose and a bucket, however, for most people, in most climates, that isn't an option. So, here's  what you need to know:

Bathing your dog is easy, as long as you prepare ahead and take a few simple steps. These tips will help you make sure that you aren't the one taking the bath!

Before you start, make sure to have all the tools and accessories you will need laid out: 
-a blanket on the floor;
-a couple of towels and facecloth by the shower or tub;
-shampoo, conditioner and a washcloth in the shower or tub;
-and a brush, comb and trash bag on the blanket.

Now, some dogs do not like to be bathed.  You may try giving him a shower instead.  Your dog might feel much more relaxed than being in a bathtub.

If you do bathe your dog in the bathtub, place a large towel, the size of the bottom surface, to prevent him from slipping.  Your dog will feel much more secure, and safer, than standing directly on the slippery surface.

Your dog's ears should not get wet on the inside so consider washing his face with a washcloth rather than pouring water over his face.

It is preferred that you use a quality dog shampoo, but if you do not have that available to you, on occasion you can use a baby shampoo.  You may want to add conditioner to help with tangles on a long haired dog.

After lathering up your dog, you need to rinse him thoroughly.  Shampoo residue will make your dog itchy.  And be careful not to get any shampoo in your dog's eyes.

Be prepared for the inevitable dog shaking.  This can soak the entire bathroom as well as you, but isn't that part of the fun?  To prevent your dog from shaking off the water, keep a towel over his head as this will calm him while you give him the "best ever" rub down.

Dry your dog as much as possible with the towels.  First, lay him on an old blanket. This helps keep hair and water from getting on the floor. To dry him thoroughly, small dogs require one towel.  Medium to big dogs require two towels. 

And here's another advantage to keeping a towel over his eyes...he'll be less likely to dart away!

Cleaning your kitty: 

Many of the above tips can be used when bathing your cat as well.  

A trick to make your cat feel more secure is, when bathing, place a washcloth or small rug over the side of the basin.  Your cat will feel more secure if he has something to cling to.

Another great idea is when bathing a cat put a drop of mineral oil in each eye to prevent irritation from the soap.  

Of course, make sure to give your furry friends plenty of treats when it's all over!