The Proper Way To Bathe Your House Pet

     House pets don’t necessarily like being groomed at a professional grooming shop because they are out of their comfort zone.  Consider instead bathing your pet at home where your pet is surrounded with familiar objects and scents.  If you have an indoor pet, it probably won’t need to be bathed as often.  However, any pet that spends a good amount of time outside as well as inside the home will require regular bathing to keep clean and healthy.  Here are a few tips on the proper way to bathe your house pet.

     For dogs, you’ll need a tub or sink large enough to accommodate them.  Make sure to choose a great smelling shampoo formulated especially for a dog’s skin and hair.  Attach a leash to your pet so you have gentle and firm control over their movements. The last thing you want is for your soapy and wet companion to run all over the house and get onto the furniture!  Brush your dog very well before getting him wet.  Shampoo your pet well, massaging his skin from his head to his toes.  Rinse your dog’s hair completely until the water runs clear.  Use a towel to remove the excess water and moisture from your dog’s hair.  If he will allow you, use a blow dryer on low to dry the hair further, especially if you’re giving him a bath in cold weather.  In warm weather, it’s perfectly acceptable to allow him to dry the rest of the way naturally.

     It’s a well-known fact that cats are averse to being dunked into water.  However, there are times a cat needs to be bathed.  It’s best to acclimate a kitten to bathing and continue bathing her as she grows into an adult cat.  That way, she’ll be used to it and the process won’t be so stressful for either of you.  A good quality cat shampoo is recommended.  The process is pretty much the same for cats and dogs.  Use a towel to dry your cat and then use a hair dryer to complete the process.  Air-drying isn’t as good for cats unless the weather is warm, as they tend to get chilled easier than dogs.

     Rabbits rarely require bathing as we think of it, which is by being immersed into water.  The only time this may be absolutely necessary is if she is very ill and has messed herself so badly that wiping her with a towel won’t get her clean.  If you must bathe your rabbit in water, work gently, but as quickly as possible so she won’t be overly stressed.  Otherwise, keep your rabbit looking her best by brushing her hair well and then going over her body with a damp towel.  This technique will remove all of the excess dead hair, making her look sleek and shiny. 

     Never put shampoo in or around the face of your pet.  Use a damp towel or cloth to wash your pet’s face.  Be especially careful around the eyes to avoid possible irritation. 

     Praise your pet throughout the bathing process so they’ll be more likely to allow you to bathe them again when it’s time to do so.  Now that you know the proper way to bathe your house pet, you’ll save time and money by not having to see the professional groomer every time your pet needs bathed.