Doggie Washes

Summertime and the frisking is fun! Ohhh, we doggies
just love summer. Summer means more time in the park,
more time at the beach, more time trail walking. It also
means that we doggies get into a lot more “stuff” and need
to be groomed more frequently so that we are at our best
all the time, so it’s doggie wash time!

Good grooming is as important for your precious pet as it is
for humans and its not just for good looks. We pooches like
to get down and dirty and play with things close to the ground, scurry
around on the beach, dash off into the brush when trail walking
and what that means is that we are a welcome home for pesky
parasites that like to hide in our fur and feed on us. A good
brushing after any outdoor activity is both welcome, invigorating
and relaxing … gosh! Can I suggest a daily brush?

... but, brushing alone will not get rid of dirt, sand, smells,
and those blood sucking parasites. It is time for a doggie bath.
As more and more pets live in apartment homes, a doggie bath at
home is a bit of a challenge … what with having to walk through
the house, perhaps jumping on to one of our favorite chairs --- you
know, the ones we are not supposed to sit on? And then, but of course!
it takes time to dry! Never fear, Doggie Wash is here!

Dog washes are showing up in every major city and they seem to
be either a self serve or an automatic dog wash.

Now I am not too sure about these automatic dog washes. Yes,
they do the job with the least amount of effort. What I am not
keen on is that the doggie is put into a shower like chamber
by himself and then, just as with an automatic car wash, the
water starts to pour, then the shampoo, then more water, then
the drying. To some dogs this creates anxiety in that they are
crated and may feel trapped. There are no soothing human hands on
their bodies to make them feel good or to massage the sore spots;
and, the dryer blows hot air which while doing a quick job of
drying the coat, promotes dry and scaley skin, which of course
becomes itchy and skin problems may develop.


Oh no! Take me to the “do it yourself” doggie wash anytime!
Here the pet parent is with her furry friend throughout the wash.
The facility is usually equipped with a step up tub,one that is
easy and fun to scurry up and get into; a choice of
shampoos, conditioners, and a cool dryer … and a good sized
apron for mommie to wear. This may take longer but you
can be assured that your pet’s anxieties are laid aside. The
hand scrunching on the back feels soooo barking good, and
relaxes your puppy. Before you know, puppy is clean and happy.

When done, be sure to reward your best friend with a yummy natural treat
or two…some dog washes have a little doggie deli attached but
if not, there surely is a dog cafe close by! Woof! Go for it!

Hmmm hmmm.... soooo good to be clean.... BooBoo Barkley!