Q and A


Q: How frequently should I give my dog a bath?

A: Veterinarians recommend bathing dogs every 4 weeks. 


Q: Does my dog need vaccinations to use your facility?  

A: Yes, and the dogs are required to wear their valid town dog tags.


Q: What if my dog was sprayed by a skunk?        
           
A: Please call for an appointment.  Prior to bringing your dog to the Dog Wash, a pre-bath at home is required.  A suggested home de-skunking wash: mix 1 liter of hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup of baking soda, and a tablespoon of dish detergent.  Sponge this mixture on your dog and let sit for 30 minutes and then rinse.


Q: Why is the water temperature lukewarm?    
                
A: Hot water dries the dog's skin.  Lukewarm bath water may seem cold to you but is more comfortable to your    dog.  For the same reason, the dryer air is not hot, but do not point the dryer into your dogs ears.


Q: Why does your shampoo not make suds?     
                
A: It turns out that suds are not a measure of the cleaning action of a shampoo.  On the contrary, suds are the result of cheap foaming agents added to shampoos to impress the user.  Laundry detergents and dishwasher soaps do not contain foaming agents and still do an excellent job.  Foaming agents tend to dry out a dog´s skin, and  are more difficult to rinse off.   We decided to use low-suds shampoos because they are better cleaning agents for your dog, better for their skin and allow for easier rinse off. 


Q: How do I give my dog a bath at the Amherst Dog Wash? 
                      
1. When you come in, we will give you a towel and a bucket with everything you need (brushes, combs, ear wipes).

2. Place your dog in the tub and secure using tub restraints. 
     
3. Using our unique shampoo system, wet the dog starting at the neck, work towards the tail, then wet chest, belly, legs and feet. Use the wash cloth for the face and head to avoid getting water in the ears.  Remember, the low suds system is made for your dog's skin health.                                  

4. Rinse in the same order.                                                

5. Dry excess water with towel and use forced air dryer for remaining moisture on coat, using brushes as needed.  Caution: do not point the dryer into the dog's ears.


Please call for an appointment or just drop in!

413-253-WASH  (9274)
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