02/12/2025
🛁 The Post-Walk Routine: The “Dry First, Brush Second” Golden Rule
The most crucial time is immediately after a muddy walk.
• 1. Containment Zone: Have a designated “mucky area” ready (utility room, garage, or a spot with a towel/mat) right when you come in.
• 2. Air-Dry the Mud: Do not hose down or aggressively rub wet mud. Wetting the mud and a thick coat just pushes the dirt deeper and tightens the mats.
• Contain your dog and let the mud air-dry completely until it’s flaky and hard.
• 3. The Cleanup:
• Brush Out Dry Mud: Use a slicker brush to gently brush away the dried, flaky mud. A slicker brush is great for getting down to the skin and removing the debris without damaging the coat.
• Targeted Cleaning: Spot-clean mucky areas (paws, legs, belly) with a damp cloth or pet wipes. A full bath is often unnecessary if you manage the mud while it’s dry.
• 4. Paws First: Mud and snow pack easily between the toes.
• Check and thoroughly clean and dry between the paw pads after every walk. Trapped debris can lead to painful matting and sores.
DM for further assistance 🐾
