We pride ourselves on the long list of services we offer our clients. Chief among them is professional grooming. Sure, some pets are apprehensive at first, but over time it becomes a wonderful treat to get a bath, shampoo, haircut, ear cleaning, nail trim, and more.
However, for the sake of convenience, scheduling, cost, or even simple pleasure, bathing your pet at home between grooming sessions is not only necessary, it’s also a good idea!
You Want…What?
A major element that precludes bathing your pet at home is the possible struggle. Pets can be very hard to convince that a soapy, sudsy, slippery place is beneficial, healthy, and even relaxing. Of course, your pet doesn’t readily understand that what you’re trying to do boosts the health and vitality of his or her skin and coat, so what’s an owner to do?
If You Can, Start Early
The best possible tactic supporting long-term home bathing is to start as early as possible. A young pet who is 7-8 weeks old is highly impressionable, and is open to all new experiences. Certainly, older pets can be taught to accept bath times, but it may take some time to introduce the experience.
Allow your pet to become accustomed to soft touches on the head, ears, paws, and face. Attempting these actions in the bath for the first time may trigger strong reactions. Give lots of praise, encouragement, and affection for your pet to start associating positive feelings with this interaction.
Amass the Accoutrements
Before using them on your pet, invite him or her to inspect the tools necessary for grooming, such as the brush, comb, clippers, shampoo, washcloth, towel, and anything else you intend to use.
It’s important to note that all products for your pet should be safe, gentle, and hypoallergenic. Human shampoos and conditioners should not be used on the delicate skin of your pet. We are happy to help you find the right bath products for your pet.
The Steps to Bathing Your Pet
If you have a small pet, you can probably handle bathing your pet alone. However, larger animals, or those who really hate water, require two sets of hands.
- First, brush your pet’s coat
- Remove any mats, tangles, or debris
- Trim your pet’s nails to reduce damage to your bathtub, flooring, or yourself
- Lay down a non-slip mat or towel on the bathtub floor
- Fill the tub, wading pool, or sink with lukewarm water up to your pet’s knees
- Use a cup or container if you do not have a detachable shower nozzle
- Work bathing products into your pet’s coat and skin, making sure to thoroughly rinse off any soap
- Inspect the skin for any parasites or skin problems
Other Tips
Your pet’s eyes are extremely sensitive. Be sure that soap or water do not enter the eyes. Also:
- Reduce tangles by only massaging the coat in the same direction as the coat grows.
- Don’t forget to wash the neck, paw pads, and ears.
- Dry your pet off thoroughly (air drying is fine during the warm weather, but never on cold, breezy days).
- Stick to a bathing routine of once a month, or whenever your pet is oily or dirty. Some pets only need 3-4 baths a year, depending on their breed and lifestyle.
- Itchy skin can result from frequent baths.
While some pets and owners get into a groove, bathing your pet at home might not be worth the stress. Our groomers are always happy to see your pet, and we hope you’ll call us with any questions or concerns.
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