Smelly Dogs May Need Ablutions
by: Hope Saidel
Every week there is one date I faithfully keep: ablutions time with my dogs. I dont know why we started calling it that probably when I was completely and totally addicted to Regency Romance novels. According to Websters Dictionary, ablutions is a washing of the body, especially as a religious ceremony.
We dont actually do a full-body dog wash every week Im told that less frequent bathing is better for a dogs skin and fur and its not really a ritual. We do trim nails, brush fur and teeth, clean ears, and wash faces. Because of the breeds we have; Brussels Griffons, Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs, skin folds, beards and mustaches, and wrinkles get special attention.
Its down to a routine in our house; it doesnt take much more than about 15 minutes per dog, once you catch them. One person holds the dog. The other ablutes.And the benefits are vast. The dogs seem happier, they smell good, and we have the chance to check each one for anything that doesnt seem quite right.
Contrary to popular belief clean, healthy dogs really shouldnt smell. Dog breath may be an indicator that the dogs teeth need cleaning. There are many products available to care for dogs teeth, but a start can be made with just a damp washcloth or gauze. Special toothpastes made just for dogs are readily available. Human toothpaste isnt a good idea it can be too harsh and dogs tend to dislike both the foaming action and the taste of products made for people.
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