When you go on vacation, doesn’t your dog deserve to go on one too? Many of us like to take a trip to the beach, have a lazy day at home, or treat ourselves at the spa. Sadly, you can’t bring your furry friend with you to that last one. But the good news is that they’ll have a whole place to themselves: the dog spa.
If you’ve never heard of it before, a dog spa is more than your typical trip to the groomers. These places offer a roster of services that’ll leave your pooch feeling happy, loved, and recharged.
So what do they do at the spa? The Furry Companion takes a look at the top services your furballs can enjoy there.
Table of Contents
1. Get a Bath
Most dog owners already bathe their pets at least once a month. Others may even do so more often if their pooches enjoy the outdoors a little too much. The frequency may also differ depending on the dog breed, coat length and thickness, and other factors.
But no matter how often you bathe your dogs, you probably know how much of a struggle it can be. This issue is especially real for those with bigger dogs. It may be funny to imagine having to wrestle down a soapy and slippery 34-kilogram golden retriever. When you have to do it, it’s not exactly fun anymore.
So why not bring them to people who get paid to go through that instead? Now is when the pros step in. Dog spa partners will make sure that your dogs come out spick and span and even throw in a massage in there too. It’s like when you go to the salon, and the hairdressers wash your hair. There’s just something else to it; somehow, it feels more relaxing than when you do the same at home.
According to Dr. Julie Schell BSc(Hons), DVM, CVA, CVCHM, CVC, “Cleanliness is so important to the overall health and happiness of dogs.” She adds, “Total body bathing once per week (or more often if your dogs love to roll in puddles or mud) is also very important.”
2. Get a Proper Grooming
Now that your furry best friend is clean, the spa will move forward with grooming. They’ll likely give your pet a blow-dry, making sure they use the proper tools. Take note: your regular hair dryer may be too harsh for your dog’s fur and skin.
Afterward, the designated groomer will brush your pet’s coat. This part is an especially crucial step for long-haired pups who haven’t been to the groomers for a while. If you don’t brush your dog’s coat often, mats may form, clumping the fur together. If this problem happens, those at the dog spa can get them out. Just like during a blow-dry, they’ll have the appropriate tools and brushes to match your dog’s
What they do next will depend on your instructions when you drop off your pooch. You can ask them to give your dog a haircut or a trim. The groomer may also cut some of the undercoats. It would be challenging to do on your own, so it’s best to leave this part to the professionals. Make sure you remember to advise the spa partners what you want them to do to your furry friend.
The spa will likely also trim your dog’s nails. Doing so is essential as long nails will curl under the paw pad, thus inflicting pain. Some places may even go the extra mile and perform a “pawdicure” or a paw pedicure.
Other things that the dog spa groomer may do include ear cleaning and tooth brushing. You’ll want them to get rid of any plaque that may have built up in your dog’s teeth. Ear wax may also accumulate, requiring the spa partners to clean them for you. Gland expression is another service they may perform for you. This step is when the groomer empties the anal glands of your dog to remove smelly fluids. Some pups may do this on their own, but others may need assistance.
Some spas will even offer you products that you can buy. Dog shampoo, conditioner, sprays, and the like are sure to make your dog happy as the pampering continues at home.
DR. Marty Becker DVM says, “Keeping your pet well groomed not only makes for a clean-smelling companion, it also helps keep your dog more comfortable and allows you to spot health problems before they become serious, or even life-threatening.”
3. Go Further With Creative Grooming
Now that we’ve explained what goes on during regular grooming sessions at the spa, you may want to push it further. Some providers may offer creative grooming services.
This process is when you want to be more artistic with how your dog looks. Instead of just trimming hair, pet stylists can shape, sculpt, and even color your pooch’s coat. When they’re finished, your pet may come out looking more like a plush toy than a live animal.
In competitions, they usually perform these transformations on breeds such as the poodle, bichon frise, shih tzu, Maltese, and Yorkies. Nonetheless, there’s no reason that they can’t try it out on your dog if you’d like.
Similar to when you go for traditional grooming, make sure you instruct the dog spa what changes you want. Buy your dog this cute set of grooming items.
4. Receive a Facial
And what’s a spa without a facial? Yes, even your dogs can enjoy these treatments. The Furry Companion found out that a couple of places offer a relaxing blueberry facial for man’s best friend. Providers use this fruit because of the high amount of antioxidants that can help clean fur and skin.
If you see that your pooch enjoys it, there are blueberry masks you can buy and try out at home.
5. Take a Swim in a Pool
Dog spas may also have indoor pools available for your furry companions. These can be regular ones for them to splash around in or heated ones for hydrotherapy.
During hot days, your pups can enjoy a swim in pools. Spas will allow them some time to play and enjoy the space with other dogs.
Alternatively, spa partners can bring your dog in for some hydrotherapy. The heated pool brings about many medicinal benefits for your pooch. Those who have gone through surgery, as well as those about to, may enjoy the rehabilitation. Older dogs with arthritis and similar joint problems may feel relief from the warmth of the water. Hydrotherapy can also help with obesity, paralysis, and dysplasia.
“From a preventative perspective, hydrotherapy is good for fitness, body condition, and a great source of aerobic exercise that is low impact on the bones and joints. It is a great tool to help your dog stay in optimal shape,” Dr. Jonathan Block, DVM explains.
Rest assured that a member from the dog spa will be assisting your pup at all times.
And if your canine companion gets too attached to the pool, there are options for toy-sized dogs that you can purchase.
6. Go For a Run
Another service they may offer at a dog spa is time for exercise. Providers may take your friendly canines out for a walk or a run. If the place is big enough, they may have a yard or another area for the dogs to go around.
The Furry Companion discovered that some places would even have specialized treadmills for your dogs. It looks like these spas are helping in maintaining pup wellness holistically.
7. Playtime
Speaking of holistic health, we know dogs to be highly sociable beings. While they have the staff to play with, we’re sure they’d also enjoy other canine companions.
That’s why we think it’s great that some spas are offering playtime with other dogs. Under the supervision of personnel, your pup can interact with others whom their owners have sent off as well. The spa may provide them with toys and play areas for them to have extra fun. Give your pet this amazing set of toys.
8. Relax with Touch Therapy
After some exercise or a warm bath, dogs can enjoy touch therapy at the spa. If you think a massage is relaxing, this experience takes it a notch higher.
Touch therapy is a method where trained individuals use physical touch for several physical, emotional, psychological, and training benefits. It can aid in relieving physical pain in the muscles or joints. Such can also alleviate feelings of anxiety and loneliness, calming your dog.
When talking about touch therapy, it can come in many forms. Some dog spas may offer reiki, Tellington Touch (TTouch), or body wrapping (swaddling). All these forms provide some kind of therapeutic benefit for your canine companion.
9. Go for a Wellness Exam
Some dog spas do go the extra mile. Some places will offer the services of a vet or similarly trained professional who can perform a full-body wellness exam.
Here, they can determine any pain your dog may be experiencing as well as stress points and dietary needs. It may not be as definitive as an actual trip to the vet. However, these trained experts will still be able to provide you with some helpful insights.
10. Enjoy a Delicious Meal
Pampering doesn’t only mean indulging your dog’s physical body. These places may also spoil your furry friend to luxury food and treats.
The dog spa may also have a store for you to stock up on these goodies. We’re sure your pets will be happy for the surprise when they get home. Give your pet this delicious treat.
11. Try Out Acupuncture
If your pup is up for it, some dog spas also offer acupuncture services. This process helps in improving blood flow in your pup’s body. It raises the amount of oxygen that flows through them.
When done correctly, it can also promote healing and balance out your dog’s energies. Yes, it appears that dogs have chi as well. The process can thus aid in pain relief from illnesses and diseases.
12. Stay Overnight
After a whole day of pampering, your furry friend will want to get a good night’s rest. However, if you’re away, they’ll have to wait out the night before they can go home. Thankfully, some spas also function as a hotel.
These places will let your dog stay overnight as they wait for you to pick them up later on. Compared to your usual kennel, the dog spa offers a more comfortable and accommodating option for your pup. You can rest easy while you’re away, as you know that capable staff is there to watch over your dog.
Final Words
When it comes to our furry friends, we know we always want the best. To show them how much we care and love them, a day at the spa could be just the thing.
At these pooch-pampering safe havens, there’s a lot for them to enjoy. A proper bath and grooming session is a step up from what we can provide at home. Stylists can even transform our dog’s look to look like a real celebrity.
For relaxation, spa partners can treat them to facials, a swim in a heated pool, touch therapy, and acupuncture. There’s also some exercise in store for them through a walk, run, or playtime with other pups.
Dog spas can also offer more as they provide luxury meals and check-ups to ensure holistic well-being. And at the close of the day, your dogs will have a comfortable place to stay as they wait for you to pick them up when the sun rises.
Pet services have, indeed, come a long way. Why not grab the opportunity and visit a dog spa with your furry companion?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I give my dog a spa?
You can pamper your furry friend in the comfort of your home. Choose a spot that will work best for you. Begin the spa with a massage from the head down to the neck. Rub the body in small circles in the opposite direction from the head. Also, do the same with his shoulders. After which carefully clip the nails. Finally, give your dog a nice warm bath. Do not forget to dry and brush the after. End the spa, with a delightful bowl of food that your dog loves.
How much do you tip the dog groomer?
The ideal tip for dog groomers is about 15 to 20% of the total price of the service. Tips are tokens of appreciation for the excellent service for your pet. In return, groomers may also put in extra effort in grooming like longer washing time, massage, or even additional conditioner.
How long does it take to get your dog groomed at Petsmart?
The length of time for grooming dogs varies on the breed and the kind of service. But in general, dog grooming at Petsmart takes about 3 to 4 hours. For customers in a hurry, Petsmart offers express services for shorter grooming time.
How much does it cost to get my dog bathed?
The cost for dog baths ranges from $40 to $75 depending on the dog’s size. There is also an option to have dog groomers over to your house for around $75. There are also self-service facilities that charge about $11 to $ 23.
Can I stay with my dog at the groomers?
Dogs tend to be more anxious when they see their humans nervous while they are groomed. It becomes an endless cycle of dogs and humans getting uneasy during the grooming. Dogs are better off without the humans during grooming.
Is it better to clip or file dog’s nails?
There are advantages and disadvantages to both methods. Clipping, it is a faster method than filing. If your dog feels uneasy about cutting their nails, you can do it quickly with a clipper. But this method requires a steady hand to avoid the quick of the nail, which might hurt your furry friend. Meanwhile, filing gives a smoother finish and much less likely that you will hit the quick. The only disadvantage of this method is that it takes time and won’t work well with impatient dogs.
How often should a dog be professionally groomed?
Grooming should be done at least once a month. The frequency may vary depending on the hair length, size, and the breed of the dog. Puppies and dogs who will get groomed for the first time will need some getting used to do. Owners can train them by brushing and grooming them more regularly.
Should a dog be bathed before clipping?
It is ideal to bathe the dog prior to clipping. Refrain from clipping dirty dog since dirt may possibly clog the clips.
Does massaging your dog help?
Much like with us after a long, tiring day, massages also benefit your pooch! A massage can help your dog become relaxed, especially if you do this after they get medical treatment or even after a long day of play. It can also reduce any stress or anxiety that your dog may be feeling.
What is done in dog spa?