How Do You ... Pamper Your Pooch

Newcastle Herald

Saturday September 8, 2007

The heavenly scent of spring floating on those warm breezes can only mean one thing your mutt is absolutely desperate, darling, for a style cut and aromatherapy bath.

In an age when celebrities pamper their pooches with everything from Michelin-star food to diamond-studded dentures, the backyard soak simply will not do when it comes to canine spring cleaning.

Apparently a cake of laundry soap, thorough cold hosing and roll on the grass is so five minutes ago.

Pedicures, breath sweeteners and aromatherapy baths with lavender and rosemary are so hot this season.

Lavender relieves itching, reduces anxiety and promotes a positive mood. Rosemary stimulates circulation, relieves tired muscles and brings energy to the skin. Though both treatments have obvious remedial benefits, the local postie might prefer the relaxing lavender over the energising rosemary.

Aussie Pooch Mobile founder Chris Taylor says a specially formulated herbal deodorant will make your furry friend's coat "shimmer and shine and smell beautiful for days". Which is a step up from dead bird.

The warmer weather attracts ticks which can be deadly when left unchecked.

There are endless treatments for fleas and parasites. If your dog is frenziedly scratching and licking in the popular regions, it's not always exclusively because they can.