DIY dog shampoo
There are a wide variety of pet shampoos available at grocery stores, pets supply stores and even drugstores. However, there is no need to buy a specific shampoo for your canine companion. You can easily get a DIY dog shampoo (inexpensively) from ingredients that most people have in their homes.
It isn’t that difficult to make your own dog shampoo. (However, you will need a bottle to store it.)
Mix 1 cup apple cider vinegar with 2 tablespoons lemon dish detergent. Add 2 tablespoons pure aloe vera. Shake the bottle well. You may immediately use the shampoo or store it for future use.
Many pet owners struggle with their puppy’s dry skin problems. This simple recipe will help alleviate scratching and discomfort: Mix 1 cup lemon dish detergent with 1 cup white vinegar and 1/3 cup glycerin. Stir the mixture into 1 quart water. Use as you would any other hair cleanser. Store your homemade dog shampoo in a clean bottle for future use.
DIY Flea Treatment
Fleas are not only a problem for dogs but for their owners as well. An easy home remedy for fleas will help resolve the problem. Boil 4 cups water and add 1 teaspoon soapwort root. This is easily found at a health food store. Cover the mixture and let it simmer for half an hour. After the mixture has cooled for an hour, add 4 teaspoons lemon or peppermint essential oil. Refrigerate until needed.
DIY Skunk Odor Remover
At some point, everyone has either experienced or will experience their dear dog being skunked. This is never an easy situation to handle. Most prepared remedies that are purchased don’t make a dent in eliminating the horrific smell. Your pet wants the odor removed just as quickly as you do!
A simple home remedy that will rid your dog of the skunk stink is to mix 1 quart hydrogen peroxide with ¼ cup baking soda and 1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid. Use it immediately after you make it, as it will explode if you put it into a closed container. Apply the shampoo to the dog, and work it vigorously into the coat for three to five minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water. Let the coat dry, and repeat as often as needed to remove the smell.
For a good-smelling rinse, boil 2 cups water and add 2 tablespoons of any essential oil. Let cool and store in the refrigerator. After bathing and thoroughly rinsing your pup with clear water, allow the dog to shake out. Now apply the rinse. Your mutt will smell wonderful.
Photo credit: adria.richards/Flickr
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