Treating your dog to an in-home spa day is not only fun and rewarding for both of you but can also be beneficial in many ways. Show your pups love by treating them like the pampered pooches they are while building a bond between the two of you by spending quality time together; from exercising and working out, all the way through a pampering massage, grooming, then ending with a fabulous treat!
Have All Your Essentials on Hand
Set the scene for your spa day by making sure you have all your materials before bath time in order to avoid having to go find things with a wet dog following you. Here is a list of items that are essential to your doggy day spa kit:
*These items can easily be stored in a lined wicker hamper or clear storage box for convenient access.
Start off with a Nice Massage
Who doesn’t like a relaxing massage? Apply small, gentle circular motions starting at the top of your dog’s head. Slowly work your way down to their shoulders. When massaging, make sure to pay close attention to your dog’s body language and adjust accordingly if your motions are too hard or too soft. If you want to take it to the next level, check out the many doggie massage oils and treatments for aromatherapy, arthritis, and more. There are a variety of scents on the market to elevate your dog’s spa day and keep them feeling pampered from head to paw.
Bath Time
Bath time is the main event, so make it pleasurable for your dog by following these tips:
1) Choose a spot that is comfortable for both of you. Have the grooming kit accessible. If your dog has long hair, brush first to remove dirt and debris and to remove any knots or tangles.
2) Find the perfect bath water temperature for your dog. It should be lukewarm: not too hot nor too cold. Start out by rinsing your dog with water by hand or with a shower head. Speak with a soothing voice to keep your pup calm.
3) Apply shampoo in small amounts working from head to tail. Avoid getting soap in your dog’s eyes. Use a comb in case of fleas.
4) Rinse by placing one hand over dog’s eyes to keep out soap. Make sure to remove all shampoo residue.
5) Towel dry, and clean ears. On cool days, don a cotton robe.
Peticure
Once your dog is out of the bath and towel dried, move on to the peticure. Trimming the nails after bath time will make the 'quick' (the blood vessel inside the nail) more visible. Regular nail trimming is important for your dog’s well-being and for comfort during those leisure walks and runway struts. Use only trimmers specifically designed for dogs. Hold the paw firmly and clip off the tip of the nail with a single stroke or trim with a rotary file. Be careful to stop short of the quick.
Pawlish provides glamorous nails for divas with tails! When selecting a nail polish, be sure the label boasts non-toxic ingredients, and that the nail polish is specifically designated as being pet friendly. Similarly, find a nail polish that will dry fast, so your dog doesn’t have to sit for too long without smudging all of your hard work.
Brush
Brush your dog’s teeth and fur. Healthy teeth are paramount to your dog’s overall health, longevity, and if you want to get your pup booked for a toothpaste commercial. Make sure you're in a spot where your dog is comfortable. Brush in a circular motion using a toothbrush and toothpaste formulated for dogs. Be sure to brush near the gum line, where plaque tends to build up.
Brush your dog’s coat using firm, but gentle strokes. Brush the hair close to your pet’s skin, but do not brush the skin itself. This can cause red, irritated skin called “brush burn.” Use long strokes for long-haired dogs. Use short strokes for dogs with short hair. Be sure to get out any knots or tangles and focus on making your dog's style beautiful.