Dogs and people seem to agree on many things. We both like some of the same tasty treats, enjoy walks, and think a good snuggle is fun. Do you know what dogs and people don’t seem to agree on? The topic of what smells good. I’ve had a dog roll exuberantly in a decomposing animal and seem overjoyed to smell of corpse. I did not share his glee. In the grooming environment, dogs come to us smelling of any number of unpleasant scents: cigar or cigarette smoke, skunk, mud, urine, feces, and general unwashed yuck. What’s a gasping-for-air groomer to do?
Keep some excellent products on hand to tackle the stink; that’s what! There are several products available to tackle tough odors. One that has worked well for me is the Best Shot system of deodorizing shampoo, conditioner, and spray.
These products are formulated to remove odor, not cover it up with perfumes. I have found that washing in the deodorizing shampoo (usually twice!) and following up with the conditionermakes a positive change in even the most atrocious-smelling dog. The company states that the shampoo will even destroy skunk odor. Fortunately, I have not had the opportunity to try it for that particular smell, but I have had some very offensive dogs come out smelling great after I use these products. They are formulated to neutralize odors, not mask them with heavy perfumes. Best Shot products are safe for dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens and have full ingredient disclosure.
After shampooing, apply the conditioner. For stubborn odor cases, it can be left on for five minutes. Once rinsed, the coat will have a pleasant feel and a far fresher scent. Since canine faces tend to be one area that gets extra smelly, consider using a washcloth or sponge to apply the shampoo and conditioner to the face to control the product placement and avoid the eyes. Lightly brushing the product through the fur will ensure you get good coverage.
The deodorizing spray can be used on pets and in the environment. If the laundry basket smells a little rough during the day, a spritz keeps the odor down until I can get to the washing machine. You can also use it in trash cans, shop vacuums, or anywhere on a rainy day when all the dogs come in, smelling extra doggy.
Having specialty-made deodorizing products at the ready is a wise choice for groomers. You never know when you will get a call like we did once, “My Bichon just rolled in raw sewage. Please help!” Keep some rubber gloves handy, too. Ew!
