We feed, walk, and groom our dogs. But how often do we really pamper them? A day at the spa can be a revitalizing retreat for us, doesn’t your dog deserve the occasional treat as well? If you’re looking for ideas on how to treat your dog like royalty, you’ve come to the right place. We have lots of ideas and tips about how to plan a doggie spa day.
Get Your Spa Day Started
A relaxing spa day can be a lot of fun. It’s even better if you’ve worked yourself hard. The same goes for your dog. If you start your doggie spa day right when you wake up, your dog may have a little too much energy to relax. This is why we suggest taking your dog out for some exercise before starting your spa day.
Give them a good walk or throw a tennis ball for a game of fetch. Whatever your dog likes to do best is what you should do. Remember, you’re making this day about them.
Set the Mood
Dogs are very perceptive. Because of this, one of the best things you can do is set the stage. Here’s how:
- Turn the lights down and play some relaxing music.
- You can even consider using an essential oil diffuser. Common oils to aid in relaxation are lavender, chamomile or lemongrass. These are also pet safe aromas that your dog will be certain to enjoy.
- Turn off distractions like cell phones.
You should also get yourself in the proper mood. Because dogs often can sense your tension, you need to move slowly and use a gentle, calming voice. Talk calmly to your dog, and be sure to give them lots of gentle touches.
Pre-Bath Brushing
After you and your dog have gotten some energy out, give your dog a good brushing. Since you’re going to be wetting and washing your dog’s coat. Giving them a brushing will help get any dirt or mud out of their coat. It also helps cut down on how much fur will come off in your tub. Better to get the fur they are shedding off before going in the tub and possibly clogging your drain.
When you do brush them, be sure to use long and gentle strokes with the brush. This will be the most relaxing way to get all that old hair out. Using a rubber-tipped brush can also be used to help redistribute some of their natural oils.
Preparing the Bath
Getting the bath ready for your dog can be difficult to get right because dogs are very sensitive to temperature. If you set the bath too hot, you can scald their paws and skin. If you go too cold, your dog’s not going to have a very relaxing spa treatment.
Likewise, make sure the room is also warm. Consider putting a space heater in the bathroom with you, but of course, you don’t want to leave it near the tub or on the wet floor. You want to make sure the heater is not anywhere that your dog can reach.
You should also be sure to pay attention to the shampoo that you use. Some shampoos can be harsh and irritate your dog’s skin. If you know your dog has sensitive skin, be sure to use an all-natural dog shampoo. This will be best for a sensitive dog’s skin.
Dry Off
Once your dog is all done in the bath, be sure to dry them off quickly. If you don’t dry them off well, your dog can become cold as all the water evaporates. Likewise, if you don’t dry them off well, they may shake themselves out on you or your furniture.
After Bath Care
Once you’re done bathing your dog, you can even give their teeth a brushing to get them fully clean. You might even give them a dental chewy to help freshen up their breath some. After taking care of their teeth, move on to their nails. This is a great opportunity to give their nails a trim. While you’re at it, you might even consider painting their nails if that’s your thing. Just be sure you purchase nail polish that is meant for dogs as it will be the safest option.
Enjoy Your Own Spa Day
Just because the day is about your dog doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t enjoy it as well. While you’re pampering your dog, why not take care of yourself too? Of course, we’re not suggesting that you jump in the tub to soak with your dog. But why not take the time to kick back as well and relax. Do your nails, give your own hair a brush, and relax with your dog.
A spa day can be just as nice for our dogs as they can be for us. You know better than anyone that your dog deserves a little quality time and pampering.