Are you looking for an easy answer to the question, "How often should I bathe my dog?" Unfortunately, you won't find one.
That's because you need to consider several factors when determining how long your dog can go between baths, such as coat length and thickness, lifestyle, and health conditions.
Yet, when it is time to bathe your dog, you want to ensure you use the right tools and equipment for the best possible experience. If that seems impossible for you at home, consider going to a self-service dog wash.
Never heard of a self-service dog wash before? Then keep reading to learn what to expect when you go to one!
What Is a Self-Service Dog Wash?
A self-service dog wash is a facility you can use to wash and dry your dog. You will have access to the following to complete the bath:
Aprons
Brushes (slicker brush, pin brush, rubber curry brush, etc.)
Cologne
Ear cleaner
Ear covering ("happy hoodie")
Non-slip ramps for larger dogs
Professional dryers
Professional sprayers and warm water
Shampoo and conditioner
Toothbrushes
Towels
Wasit-high tubs with restraints
You may find other services and tools available to assist you with giving your pup the perfect puppy bath for an additional price.
For instance, if your dog has allergies, you can opt to use hypoallergenic shampoo. You may also consider a facial scrub to give your dog's face a gentle and deep cleaning.
For dogs with an undercoat (i.e., German Shepards, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies), you can use the FURminator De-shedding tool. It includes shampoo, conditioner, and a brush to help gently remove all the loose hair and reduce shedding.
It's particularly useful for the time of year when your double-coated dog is shedding out its undercoat, which usually happens twice a year.
If your dog's nails need trimming, you should also have access to nail trimmers and grinders.
Some pet spas also offer bandanas for an extra fee to give off that "freshly bathed" vibe. There's nothing Instragm loves to see more than dogs wearing cute bandanas!
While these are just some examples of the services available, services will vary from location to location. Thus, if you seek a particular service, call the pet spa before you arrive to ensure the self-service facility has what you require.
Why Use a Self-Service Facility
Of course, you can bathe your dog at home, in the bathtub, or outside if the weather is nice. But you know how much of a hassle it is.
Bathing outside can lead to more mud and grim getting stuck in your dog's fur and paws, especially if your pup loves to play in the water. Yet, bathing in the tub is limiting and uncomfortable. The floor gets soaking wet, and if your dog escapes, you'll have a substantial slippery mess to clean up around the house.
On the other hand, maybe visiting a groomer hasn't always been an option for you. Arranging drop-off and pick-up can be a scheduling nightmare. Not to mention the cost of a professional groomer can set you back hundreds of dollars, depending on the size and needs of your dog.
If your dog is terrified of bath time or aggressive towards others, you may have been putting off the whole ordeal altogether.
There are many reasons one chooses not to use a professional groomer, but that is no reason to suffer with bathtime at home. When you visit a self-service facility, you can ease your dog into the grooming process and ensure it's comfortable for them.
With you in charge, they will feel more relaxed. Plus, with the help of professional tools, both you and your pup will have a more enjoyable bathtime routine. It's safer and cleaner for all.
Benefits of Self-Service Dog Washing
If you aren't already convinced to give the self-service pet spa a try, consider these benefits.
First, when you use a high-waist tub, you don't get an aching back or knees from bending and moving in various directions. The restraint keeps your dog safely in one place while you wash them at a comfortable height.
Also, when your dog is limited to the tub, they can't get water and soap all over the bathroom or house. So there's no wet mess to clean and no chance of slipping, especially with the non-slip surfaces. And all that wet fur? Forget about it clogging your drains!
You can calmly towel dry your dog in the tub before using the professional dryers, reducing the amount of water sloshing around.
It's imperative to dry your dog properly after a bath. Towel drying often isn't sufficient enough.
Damp fur can easily trap dirt and other toxins. Fungus can grow between the paw pads or under the armpits. Ear infections can also occur from improper drying. For dogs with an undercoat, damp fur can cause matting or other skin irritations like hot spots.
Using a professional dryer is a huge advantage. It cuts down on drying time and lessens the risks that come with damp fur.
The best part about self-service grooming is that while you get to use the same tools the professionals use, you'll end up paying nearly half (or more) of what groomers charge! And if you have questions or concerns, there are professionals at the pet spa you can ask for guidance.
Lastly, you don't have to worry about scheduling because self-service facilities are usually walk-in. So there's no need to make a reservation; go when it best fits your schedule.
Really, what's not to love about a self-service dog wash?
Come to Bubbly Paws for Your Pet Grooming
If you want the luxury of having your dog bathed at a professional facility without paying the price, then self-service dog washing is the way to go.
You won't have to worry about buying all the supplies or having your dog run wet throughout your house in the process.
Reservations are not required for self-service grooming at Bubbly Paws. So, find a location near you and stop in when it's convenient. Take advantage of our one-of-a-kind pet spa so you and your pup can have a relaxing and enjoyable bathing experience!