a 3 month old male gray and white kitten,
a 6 week old, male chocolate lab mix,
Get the shampoo, a towel, and a wetsuit;
it's time for a bath!!
The first thing you need to do is gather up all of the supplies you will need. Get a big towel, the shampoo, and a wash cloth. If you're bathing them outside, get some buckets of warm water.
The best way to do this is to put a leash on him and tie him up to something sturdy. (Personal experience: Don't tie him to the water faucet. You'll spend the rest of the day repairing the plumbing. Not fun.) If you're outside, stand them on concrete or in a kiddie pool.
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Lukewarm water is best for bathing and rinsing. Use buckets of water if needed for outside. |
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Start from the top of the head and work your way down. This is especially important if your dog has fleas. The fleas will try to escape and will run to the head. They will get in the dog's eyes, nose, and ears. (again, not fun) Be sure to use enough shampoo. Work it into a rich lather and leave it on for 5 - 10 minutes. Be sure to stay with your dog to ensure their safety. |
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Scrub gently, but get down to the skin. This is like an allover body massage for your dog. It's a good bonding time. |
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Be careful around the face and ears. It's best to use a washcloth in these areas. |
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Rinse well... until the water runs clear. ( If you don't, your pet may look like he has dandruff. It may cause him to scratch and scratch) |
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I always wash them at least twice. If you only washed your hair once a month, you'd probably spring for the second wash too. You're already wet, you've got everything out, go ahead and wash them again. |
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After a good rinse, towel them off well. If you just turn them loose, they are probably going to roll in the grass (or dirt) to try to dry off. Put them in an area with a hard floor and put a towel down for them to rub on. |
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