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Helpful Hints for Cleaning Your Canine


blog from Jessee Tustin, Green Dog Wash's Self-Service Attendant 

We love our dogs when they’re dirty, but even more when they are clean and healthy. Many people take their pooches to full service groomers who do the dirty work for them; others take on the task themselves which can make an awful mess! That is why Green Dog Wash’s Self-Service Bathing is not only convenient, but also facilitates a clean and comfortable environment where you can enjoy this otherwise strenuous activity.

We have been seeing a lot of people at Green Dog Wash who bring their dogs to use our Self-Service tubs, but they don’t know where to start when washing. So we compiled some helpful hints to assist with washing your best friend, so that it is enjoyable for human and dog alike.

• A good place to start is by using eye and ear wipes to collect residue in these area.  You cna even brush your dog's teeth with the disposable, chicken or mint flavored toothbrush!
• Check the water and make sure it is the correct temperature. Remember that dogs have a different body temperature than humans, so what may feel good to you is often too hot. At GDW our water is always the right temperature for your furry friend.
• Once you have your dog in the bath, begin by getting their hide wet from the neck down, focusing on going from body to legs. 
• When your dog is sufficiently wet begin lathering in the soap. ShamPooch, our specially made natural soap comes in four different scents:  Lavender and Aloe, Eucalyptus Peppermint and Cedarwood, Tea Tree and Aloe and Unscented. All selections come in liquid soap form or in an easy lathering soap bar. Rinse and repeat if necessary.
• Next, gently wet your pups head. At GDW our water pressure is calibrated so that it is never too harsh of a flow. Then carefully apply the soap and rinse.
• Everybody knows your doggy wants to shake, so let them shake away! Can’t do that at home, but shakes are welcomed at GDW.
• You can completely towel dry them or use a dryer. At GDW we have forced cool-air blowers. If you are using a blower for the first time, gradually ease your dog into the process by just semi-drying them the first time and gradually dry longer each time. It is easier to introduce them to the dryer bit by bit (as with most things), and of course use praise and rewards!

My last word of advice: Do not scold them! Bath time can be incredibly frustrating or pleasing.  All it takes is losing your patience one time to make your baby associate bathing with trouble. Keep it cool, and your dog will catch onto your vibe. Remember this can be a great bonding experience if you go into it as positively as you can.