It’s summertime, and the living might be easy but it can certainly get smelly, what with the sun hitting rubbish bins, and dogs running about and getting sweaty and tangled fur.

Summertime is a great time to get your dog clean with any one of our amazing, high end, pH formulated just-for-dogs formulas, organic grooming supplies for dogs, and this includes our range of shampoos and conditioners. Well, it’s a great excuse to get your dog nice and clean and it can be a fun way to cool down in the heat for both you and your dog.

Because, people, let’s face it, you’re also going to get wet.

We know some dogs love bath time and others you’d swear had a bit of cat DNA as they just hate baths. But you can help change that with a little prep and a little forethought.

• Did We Say Prep?

And by that, prep your dog. Walk, run, play. It’s not only a great way to bond with your dog and spend some we time together, it’s a great way to get rid of pent up energy. A dog who wants to run, jump, play is not a dog ready for a bath. A tired dog is.  Your tired dog will be much more willing to be manhandled and bathed and will be more likely to sit still while you administer the kind of attention most of us wish it was us being pampered.

•  The Best Bathing Spot In The House…

Is the bathroom, in the bathtub. It might seem a no-brainer but some people will think the kitchen or laundry sink is the place, or even a wading pool. But the bathroom is designed for splashes and messes and it comes ready with a tub that’s perfect for all sized dogs. Also, you can kneel and be in easy reach of all your Royal Treatment spa products, as well as brushes, combs and towels. And, unlike the great outdoors, your pooch can’t roll over in leaves and dirt and undo all the good work you’ve done in getting him nice and clean and silky and shiny.

• Make Like You’re A Boy Scout

They’re always prepared, those little kids (and the girl guides). Before you begin with the bathing, make sure everything is ready. You have your tools of the trade – shampoo, conditioner, combs, brushes, sponges, towels, more towels and scissors if you need to do a bit of a hair cut around the eyes, or tail, or even if there are tangles or burrs you need to clip out. And don’t forget you. Your expensive heels, jewels, ballgown (hey, you never know!), fancy hair do and perfect makeup may not be the best outfit for a dog bath session. No make up, simple hair, good jewellery put away and comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting wet are the way to go.

• The Actual Bath…

We think plunging your dog straight into the bath is very last century. Instead, gently pour some luke-warm water over him from a convenient jug to get him used to the whole bath and getting wet thing. Be gentle of voice and of hands. Of course, before you start the bathe, this is the time to be doing snippings with scissors against burs, knots and even a bit of a trim where needed. Once that’s done, begin the bath. Be sweet, sure and encouraging in your doggy banter. Make sure he knows he’s safe. Your tone of voice is very important here. And, when you’re done, it’s treat time!

Enjoy the bath time, it’s a great way to spend time with your dog, and to cool down in the relentless summer heat.