Bathing a pet can prove a difficult task, especially for first-time owners who do not yet know what they are doing. The process can be a tricky with an animal who hates water and wants nothing to do with the bath their owner is trying to give them. Pet Bathing in Alexandria VA can be made a bit easier with a few helpful tips.
Get the Animal Familiar With Water
If a dog or cat has not been around water much, it is best to start introducing them to it. Making them familiar and comfortable around and in water can help make giving them a bath go more smoothly. Even having a shallow kiddie pool in the yard and letting them sniff at it and step into it will help.
Brush Them First
Never wash a dog without first brushing their fur. The matted hair and dead skin cells should be removed first before getting them wet, as water tends to make matted fur more difficult to manage. Once he has been fully brushed, the pet can then safely go in the tub.
Get a Floating Toy
Many dogs are much too playful to sit still during a bath. Purchasing a floating toy and placing it in the water works as a distraction to give the pet something to play with while they get clean. This trick works especially well for young pups.
Avoid Shampooing the Head
Dogs will shake their head and attempt to get away if water gets in their eyes, ears, or nose. Avoid this by skipping the shampoo on this part of their body. Simply use a wash cloth to wipe the area clean, without pouring shampoo on water over their head that can cause irritation and annoyance.
Pet Bathing in Alexandria VA is a necessary part of pet ownership. Animals have to be kept cleaned, and a regular bath will help to keep the coat shiny and healthy. An owner who is unsure of how to bathe their pet, or does otherwise not have time to do so, can bring them into an animal clinic, such as Business Name, and have a professional get the job done. Browse our website to learn about all grooming services offered.
