Spring-cleaning your dog's coat


Posted on Mar 28, 2008
By Julia Szabo

To make a fresh start for spring, a spring-cleaning session is in order. And no serious cleanup effort is complete without lathering up the dog and rinsing away any dirt and grime that could migrate from her coat to your furniture, walls, and floors.  

But don't think you can use just any old dog shampoo. You read the ingredient panel on your dog's food (at least we hope you do); well, guess what, you have to do the same with her shampoo. Harsh chemical ingredients to avoid are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, DMDM Hydantoin, and anything ending with the suffix -paraben. Absorbed through the skin, these chemicals are ten times more toxic than if ingested - and you wouldn't want to expose your best friend to harmful chemicals while her pores are wide open.  

That's why FetchDog carries a range of shampoos made from all-natural ingredients. All are gentle enough for little puppies, who have notoriously sensitive skin. But many adult and senior dogs also suffer from dry skin and allergies, so protecting them with a soothing, moisturizing shampoo is a must.  

There's TheraNeem, a gentle, soap-free formula that contains nourishing Neem oil, an extract of the mahogany tree that combats mosquitoes and fleas. If your dog suffers from allergies, this is a great product to keep on hand, because it may be used several times a week without risking irritation to your dog's delicate skin. If your pup is especially sensitive, or suffers a skin irritation, add a few drops of pure Neem oil to the TheraNeem shampoo in your palm, mix it up, and work it into Spot's skin - this will cut down on scratching, and you'll see a big difference in her overall comfort level.  

For long-haired dogs who worry about split ends, Buddy Wash has its own matching conditioner and both have a creamy consistency thanks to coconut oil, aloe vera, and vitamin E. This stuff is so gentle that the couple who invented it even wash their (human) babies with it!  

For wiry terrier types, whose coats have a tendency to become dry, the moisturizing effect of avocado oil can't be beat, so treat them to EQyss Premier Creme Rinse, which happens to be on half-price sale right now. Here's another brilliant bargain: Happytails Comfy Dog Shampoo, which boasts skin-soothing oatmeal, burdock, comfrey, and calendula. Yet another Happytails formula, Sparkle, is great for safely brightening white-coated dogs (plus it's on sale too).

And if you're a fan of fragrant essential oils, why not coordinate your dog's signature scent with your own by washing up with Woof Shampoo's three irresistible cocktails: Coconut-Lime, Green Teas, and Rosemary-Lavender. 
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