Special to the Star-Herald
I just got done bathing my boy, Rusty, and boy was he dirty! It is amazing how they can look quite clean, but once you get to scrubbing and rubbing, the dirt comes out. To properly bathe your dog, you should put it in a bathtub or basin. I find the detachable showerheads to be incredibly helpful in getting all the soap out of my dogs because I can control the water flow better and bring it close to the skin. Be sure that your dog is on a rubber mat or some sort of non-skid surface while bathing. I use a suction cup with a noose leash attached (especially made for dog bathing) to the side of the tub to secure the dog in position.
If your dog has a long or medium coat, be sure to get all tangles and debris out of the dogs’ coat prior to bathing, otherwise the tangles will become tighter and the debris worked deeper into the fur. A cotton ball placed in your dogs’ ears will help to keep the water out. Place your dog in a few inches of water, wet his fur and begin working from head to tail and from back to belly. Be sure to work up a good lather and work your fingers down to the skin, where a lot of dirt hides. Bathing monthly will help keep your dog smelling fresh and help with any flea problems.
I always bathe my own dogs, but you may have a dog with a long, thick coat that needs to be groomed. That is when you look for a professional groomer. Your best bet is to speak to your friends and find out where they have had their pet groomed and their opinion of the groomer. It is also important to meet the groomer and develop a good personal relationship with him or her and be sure they understand and can accommodate your needs. Most times, if you have a larger dog, it makes such a mess to bathe them at home and can be just as easy to take them to a groomer who has the right tools and facility, to save you the hassle of trashing your bathroom, especially in the winter.
I find it much easier to cut the nails of a dog I don’t own than one I own. Don’t ask me why, but when it comes to my dogs, I have a groomer friend cut their nails or have them trimmed at their annual vet appointment. Nails can be tricky and some of my dogs have super sensitive feet. Again, a groomer or your vet are professionals and can handle a dog that may become unruly. Your best bet is to handle your dogs’ paws regularly, give treats and make it a pleasant, relaxing time, even if someone else is going to be cutting their nails.
You are invited to an Animal “Lobby 101” Meet-up and learn how to speak up for animals and make a difference in their lives. Katie Lisnk, the Maine state director for the Humane Society of the United States, will be giving a FREE presentation Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Turner Memorial Library in Presque Isle. There you will learn how to become an active voice for the animals of Maine and beyond. This is a great opportunity to learn and share.
If you are looking for a friend for life, please visit the Central Aroostook Humane Society. We are open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday or give us a call at 764-3441. Please keep your pets safe and warm and have them spayed and neutered.
