BATH TIME

Bath time can be a fun time contrary to what you and your pet may think. Start giving your pet a bath when very young. I typically tell owners to start around six weeks of age. A baby shampoo is appropriate for this age puppy. Many flea and tick shampoos contain chemicals to kill fleas and ticks which can cause toxicity to a pet. Be sure to read the label instructions before using any of these products.

When bathing a pet, put one drop of mineral oil in each eye. This will help to prevent soap from getting in the pet’s eye causing an ulcer. The mineral oil will be removed from the eyes from natural tear production.

The water the pet will be bathed in should be at body temperature like a baby's bottle. Do not place a pet in a bathtub full of water because this may scare the pet, resulting in a long term fear of water. Many pets that are put in a full bathtub become afraid they are drowning so this should be avoided.

The best way to introduce the pet to the tub is to have the water running when brought into the bathroom. This will prevent the sound of the water from startling the pet. The flow should be a slow steady stream of water on the pet.

Use a shampoo that has been formulated for your pet's skin. The reason for this is a pet's skin p.h. is different from humans. In young pets using a baby shampoo is acceptable. Place your pet in water that he/she can comfortably stand in without struggling. Remember to stay within an arm’s reach of your pet to prevent drowning. Now, wet your pet down with water. Next, apply the shampoo according to label instructions to the pet, and let it soak on him/her.

Constantly love on your pet and talk to him/her to assure your pet that he/she is safe. Finally rinse the pet and dry him/her completely.

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