Scrub a dub dub, pups in the tub! When it comes to bath time for your pets even the most well-researched pet parent can make some small mistakes. Every pet has its own needs and comfort level and as its parent, you need to be perceptive of that. But, whether you have a cat or a dog, there are mistakes that a very common. These are the 5 most common bath time mistakes and some tips to help prevent them from happening.
Not protecting eyes and ears
The first and most important thing during bath time is protecting your pet's eyes and ears from the water, and especially the soap! Even if your pet enjoys playing in the water, unwanted water can ruin bath time. Water in these unwanted places can be uncomfortable, but sometimes the moisture can cause some nasty ear infections. The easiest way to fix this mistake is to use a washcloth when washing your dog or cat's face. Some people even go to the length of putting cotton balls in their ears to prevent the water from going in. This is more helpful for those animals that have a more exposed ear canal than dogs who have large floppy ears.
Not paying attention to water temperature
Nobody likes getting into water that is too hot or too cold, so why would your pets like it? Paying attention to the temperature of the water is crucial to keep bath time smooth, especially if your pet isn’t a fan of water in the first place. It’s easy to get distracted while getting the soap and accidentally turning the faucet the wrong way. Blasting your pet with cold water or burning them is something they won’t forget, which can make bath time more difficult in the future. Keep your pet and the soap away from the faucet so it doesn’t accidentally get knocked the wrong way.
Not getting the right shampoo
Many pet owners think the shampoo they use themselves is okay for their pets. Dogs and cats have unique skin that dries out more easily when using a shampoo that is designed for humans. For most dogs and cats, anything that is made for pets should work well. Oatmeal-based shampoos are overall a good choice, but the best way to figure out which shampoo is perfect for your pet is to ask your vet for recommendations, especially if your pet has underlying skin conditions.
Not drying your pet properly
Drying your pet after they bathe can seem exhausting, but it is one of the most important steps in the bathing process. Not fully drying your pet can cause discomfort and chills and can even cause your pet to become ill during winter months. Using a towel to dry them off is the safest way to do this. A blow dryer could speed the process up, but it can be difficult to regulate the temperature, so it is best to leave that to the professionals.
Not Brushing your Pet
Pet owners may think that brushing your pet either after their bath is the only time to do that but that is not correct. You should be brushing your pet both before and after their bath. For dog breeds that have a double coat that sheds such as a golden retriever, they can even be brushed while shampooing to removed excess hair in the bath. A soft dog brush is comfortable enough for most dogs and can help minimize resistance on your dog's part.
If you don’t brush your pet’s fur and it is tangled, take them to a groomer first because it can be harmful to them. This will not only keep your pet’s coat shiny, but also cleaner in between bath times. There are several varieties of grooming tools for both cats and dogs, so be sure to do your research on which is the best brush or comb for your pet. If you want the best quality dog grooming essentials, Petmate offers a wide assortment that makes your pet look, feel, and smell good.
Bath time doesn’t have to be a hassle for you or your pet, even if they like water! The most important factor is showing love and care to your pet and making it a positive experience all around.
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