Green Cleaning Services

Dog grooming is expensive, sometimes a lot more than getting your own hair done! That said, if you’ve got a poodle or a Bichon or a breed that requires professional attention, it’s best to leave any job that requires clippers or scissors to someone in possession of a grooming certificate. But if it’s just a bath Fido needs, this is something you can accomplish at home without too much mess or fuss. When you use green or natural dog shampoo, it's better for your dog and better for the environment.

First, brush your dog thoroughly before rushing for the wash tub. Remove all tangles and mats first because they only get worse when they’re wet. If your dog has gotten into pine sap or tar, remove it first with a little mineral oil or petroleum jelly. If there is no other recourse, cut off the offending substance with scissors, using great care, of course, to not nick your pooch. Apply a little petroleum jelly or mineral oil near the eyes to protect them. Not in the eyes, just around. Also put a cotton ball in your dog’s ears to keep water out. Use a ball that is big enough to not get caught in the ear canal.
 
Next remove your dog’s collar and place him in the bath. If you have a small dog, the kitchen sink will do. If you have a spray attachment, the bathtub is even better, although it’s a good idea to line the bottom of any kind of tub with a dish towel to keep his paws from slipping. Close the door to keep him from leaping out of the tub and dashing from the room. That’s a mess! If you don’t have any way to spray, you are best off using a water pitcher. Use something plastic, never glass!

Human shampoo is too harsh for dogs. It has the wrong pH for their skin. Any commercial dog shampoo is fine, but you can make your own green dog shampoo using 1/3 cup glycerin, 1 cup lemon Liquid Joy, 1 cup white vinegar and one quart of water. Combine these ingredients together in a liter bottle and shake before each use.

The water used to wash your dog should be warm but not hot. Never spray water directly in the dog’s face. Tilt his head up to make sure water runs down his back and not into his eyes. Use your fingers to rub in the green shampoo. If your dog is anxious, talk to him soothingly and massage his chest. Some experts say start with the back, then the rear and then the legs, saving the face for last. In general, work from top to bottom, working the suds down the body.

Rinse out the green shampoo with warm water, never too cold or too hot. Cover your dog’s eyes with your hand to prevent water or shampoo from getting in. Use a detangler for easier combing if you have a long haired dog. After the final rinse, use your hands to squeeze out as much water out as possible. Wrap your dog in a large absorbent towel. Blot, don’t rub, to avoid creating more tangles. You can let your dog shake itself to help dry off. Remove the cotton balls from the ears and let your dog dry naturally if you can. If you must use a blow dryer, keep it on the coolest setting. Also if the weather is cold or even cool, don’t let your dog outside until it is dry.  Finish by brushing your dog once again. Don’t bathe too often as it removes the natural oils from the skin. Most dogs only need a few baths a year. Regular brushing and attention to the nails is all many dogs need to stay healthy and clean.