Walking your dog out in nature is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise for both you and your pup. But it also means that when you get home, you’ll need to clean up after them. Whether they’ve rolled around in the mud or come back covered in leaves, dirt, twigs, and other debris from their outdoor adventures, here are some helpful tips on how to properly clean your pooch after a walk outdoors.
1. Brush Your Dog:
The first step to cleaning your dog after a walk outside is brushing them. This helps remove any loose dirt, leaves, twigs, and other debris that may be stuck in their fur. Depending on the type of brush you use, you may also need to comb through their fur afterward as well. Also, be sure to check for any ticks that may have gotten on them as well. That’s because ticks can carry dangerous diseases that may be harmful to your pup. Also, if your dog has a long or heavy coat, you may need to take them to the groomer for deep cleaning. For example, if your pup has a double coat, it’s best to use a de-shedding tool like the Furminator.
2. Bathe Your Dog:
Once you’ve finished brushing and combing through your pup’s fur, the next step is giving them a bath. Be sure to use a mild shampoo that won’t irritate their skin or eyes and only use lukewarm water. Once they are clean, the towel dries them off as much as possible before allowing them to go outside again. This will help keep them from getting chilled while they still have wet fur. If you need to blow dry your pup afterward, make sure the temperature isn’t too high, and always keep the nozzle at least a few inches away from their skin. For instance, a dryer set to the lowest temperature would be too hot for them.
3. Check Their Paws:
After brushing, bathing, and towel drying your pup, the final step is checking their paws. This helps ensure that any dirt or debris that may have been picked up on their walk is removed from between their toes and pads before they are allowed back into your home. It’s especially important if you’ve taken them out for a long walk in an area with tall grass or thick foliage, as these can easily get stuck between the toes. To check their paws, simply look over each one individually while gently pressing down on them to feel for anything abnormal like rocks or pebbles. If you find something stuck, use a pair of tweezers to remove it.
4. Additional Tips:
Once you’ve finished cleaning your pup, be sure to reward them with a treat for being so patient throughout the process. This will help make it easier for them next time when it’s time for their post-walk clean-up session. Also, if your dog is small enough, consider bringing along a grooming kit that includes a brush, comb, and other necessary items needed for the job. This way you won’t have to worry about not having all of the supplies when you need them. And don’t forget to also wipe down their collar and leash as well after each walk! Doing so helps keep dirt and debris from building up on these items which can lead to skin irritations or worse in some cases. This is especially important if you live in an area with different climates throughout the year.
5. Check For Signs Of Injury:
It’s important to inspect your pup for any signs of injury or irritation caused by their outdoor adventure. This includes checking their paws and ears for cuts and scrapes, as well as inspecting their fur for fleas or ticks. If your pup has come back with any kind of wounds or injuries, it’s important to get them treated right away to avoid infection or further complications down the road. Additionally, if you notice your pup is limping or has any other signs of pain, it’s always a good idea to take them to the vet for a check-up. While this may not be necessary every time they go outside, it’s still important to keep an eye out for any changes in your dog’s behavior and health.
Taking care of your pup after a walk may seem like an extra step, but it is essential for keeping them healthy and happy. By brushing their fur to remove dirt and debris, giving them a bath with a mild shampoo, checking their paws for anything stuck in between the toes or pads, wiping down their collar and leash as well as inspecting them for any injuries are all important steps you should take when cleaning up your furry friend after they’ve been outside. Remember that if you notice any signs of injury or illness on your pup, be sure to get them checked out right away to avoid further complications. Taking these simple precautions can help ensure that both you and your pet have many more enjoyable walks together!
Leave a Reply