While a great epsom salt bath might already be a favorite way to pass the time, have you ever considered what your pets might think of the experience? We love our furry best friends, and epsom salt for dogs is just one of the many ways we can show how much we really do.
Epsom Salt For Dogs: What Are The Benefits?
When thinking of what benefits dogs get from an epsom salt bath, think about what you get out of the experience.
When you take a full-body, sitz, or foot bath with epsom salt, you feel relaxed, comforted, soothed, relieved, and even sometimes energized or inspired. Dogs feel the same way.
Our canine companions work hard throughout the day, even if their humans don’t quite consider it “work.” They’re barking to protect the family, running around burning energy in the backyard, and learning and absorbing the world around them.
From the time a dog wakes up until they go to bed, their days are typically quite busy in their own minds; that’s likely why they need to take so many nap breaks.
When humans have busy, stressful, or packed days, an epsom salt bath can help them to wind it all down and bring them back to center. The same rings true for our dogs.
An epsom salt soak can be a soothing and relaxing experience for them, all while being an opportunity to strengthen their bond with their favorite people.
What Epsom Salt Soak Scents Do Dogs Like?
It’s important to remember that a dog’s sense of smell is much stronger than that of a human. They have about 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, while the average human has about 6 million.
For this reason, your favorite aromas may not be the same smells your dog likes. Using pure essential oils to scent the epsom salts is crucial because dogs often have a strong dislike for artificial fragrances.
Opt for epsom salt blends with one to two essential oils. Lavender essential oil, which is the only oil in our Deep Relaxation Bath Soak, is a favorite. The relaxation it brings to humans can be enjoyed by dogs as well.
A few other scents dogs may enjoy are geranium, rosemary, eucalyptus, and lemongrass. By trying out a variety of blends that you personally enjoy and allowing your dog to sample them, you can both determine which scents they like best.
How To Give Your Dog An Epsom Salt Bath
Prepare For The Bath
Bathing your dog with epsom salt is a straightforward process. Start by gathering all the necessary items to ensure a smooth bath experience.
Lay down a towel on the bathroom floor to prevent excessive water spillage. Prepare a dry towel for your dog to dry off comfortably.
Have your epsom salts handy, and consider having a brush nearby if you intend to groom your dog during or after the bath. This preparation ensures that everything is in place for a successful and enjoyable bathing session for your furry friend.
Click here to order high-quality epsom salt.
Creating The Epsom Salt Soak
To create a comfortable bath for your dog, start by filling your bathtub halfway with warm water. Avoid using hot water, as it's not suitable for dogs.
However, a bit of warmth is necessary to help the essential oils disperse effectively through the steam in the air. As the water flows, gently pour approximately ¼ cup of your preferred epsom salt blend into the tub, ensuring thorough agitation to ensure complete dissolution of the salts.
After dissolving the salts, assist your dog into the bath and encourage them to settle into the water comfortably. It's important to discourage them from lapping up or "tasting" the water due to its salt and essential oil content.
Instead, encourage them to simply sit and relish the experience. Providing gentle petting, soothing music, and calm conversation can help create a sense of safety, happiness, and relaxation for your dog during this time.
While they're in the bath, you can use a cup or your hands to gently pour warm water over their back, tail, hind end, or shoulders, allowing them to enjoy the soothing sensation.
Aftercare
A epsom salt bath for your dog shouldn't be prolonged; about 10 minutes is sufficient for them to reap the benefits. Once the bath is complete, drain the tub and rinse your dog with lukewarm water to ensure any remaining salt is thoroughly removed from their skin and fur.
After assisting your dog out of the tub, gently pat them dry with a clean towel to remove any excess water from their coat.
If you’re wondering where to get epsom salt, order here. We at Better Bath Better Body offer pure, high-quality epsom salt in 5-lb pouches and 40-lb buckets.
An Enriching Experience For You And Your Dog
Spending quality time with your furry friend is essential for any dog owner, and an epsom salt bath offers just that. Suitable for dogs of all ages, this bathing ritual provides a tranquil experience for energetic young pups and a soothing one for senior dogs.
An epsom salt bath isn't just a special treat for your dog; it can also become a part of their regular grooming routine. For dogs that feel stressed during grooming, a gentle soak beforehand can help them become accustomed to the water and relaxed for the rest of their grooming session.
Conclusion
Incorporating epsom salt baths into your pet care routine can enhance your bond with your furry companion while providing relaxation and relief. Remember, what comforts you can comfort them too.
Treat your beloved canine to a soothing epsom salt bath and watch them unwind in pure bliss. Click here to order pure epsom salt for dogs today.