Today we had some extra time after the morning medications and exams because there aren't a whole lot of animals needing medical attention right now which is GREAT! We decided that if they don't need any medical treatment that they could use some pampering, so we gave a few dogs' baths today. There's this really great room that has a big, deep tub with a rubber mat on the bottom, all sorts of pet shampoos for all sorts of animals (cats, dogs, ferrets...) with all different purposes. Some were for sensitive skin, some were for dandruff assistance and others just were oatmeal based and smelled pretty. After suiting up with aprons to keep up dry, we began giving baths to dogs that were up for adoption.
Giving a dog a bath doesn't sound like it would take too much direction, but giving a bath and properly giving a bath are two different things. There was a guide on the wall for dog-bathers to follow with tips and tricks to bathing. One that I remember, was that you should never take the shower head and spray it directly on the dog's body without first testing to see how the dog will react. You can do this by slowing bringing the shower head towards the dog so he/she can see it and then start at their feet to see if they mind having water sprayed on them. Some dogs don't mind (and actually love the water, like my brother's Chocolate Lab) while others (like my big white Great Pyrenees) absolutely hate it. It's really important to make sure that the dog is comfortable with your pace in order to eliminate any bites and also to reduce any present stress the dog may have. Another thing I read on the sheet was something that I wasn't aware of. As far as the temperature goes for bathing your pet, it should be warm, but not as warm as you, a human, would like it to shower in. I learned that a dog's skin is more sensitive to temperature and temperature changes. So what feels to be luke warm to us, may feel hot to them. Turning on the water and adjusting the temperature appropriately before introducing the dog to it is the best route to go in order to ensure that no scalding/chills occur. The last thing that is always really important to do is make the bathing process a pleasant and rewarding experience. While bathing you should provide plenty of praise, talk in a slow/calm voice, and if necessary provide treats. This positive reinforcment will help your dog to find bath-time a fun time instead of a scary one!
There are plenty of other guidelines and things to remember when giving your dog a bath including brushing before hand, proper handling, using cotton balls to protect the ears if you plan on washing their face, completely drying, and using the proper soap (and amount!). Giving our pets regular baths and grooming is just one more way that we as pet owners can give our animals a great quality of life! Plus- who doesn't love how cute they look when their fur is all wet!?
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