Care of the Dog 



skin and causes eczema. In winter it chaps the 

 skin and makes it rough, cracked, and sore. It re- 

 moves the natural oil from the hair and leaves it 

 dry and harsh. It weakens the animal and paves 

 the way for bronchitis, pneumonia, and distemper. 

 White dogs must necessarily be bathed more often 

 than those of dark color, and lap dogs more fre- 

 quently than those running in the yard. The actions 

 of the individual determine, to a great extent, the 

 frequency of the bath. Some animals are naturally 

 clean and take great pride in keeping their coats in 

 fine condition, while others delight in rolling in all 

 the dirt to be found. The average house dog 

 should be washed once in two weeks, but when it is 

 possible to stfetch the interval to a month it is 

 wise to do so. White dogs and toys will have to 

 be bathed from one to seven times a week. 



Dogs should not be bathed when suffering from 

 any febrile disease. When there is any upset of the 

 intestinal tract baths should be avoided. Very thin 

 and emaciated dogs are in a too weakened condi- 

 tion to withstand bathing. Puppies, unless vigorous 

 and healthy, should not be washed before they are 

 at least four months old. Females must not be 

 bathed while in season. 



Soap. — ^Any good white soap such as Ivory, 

 Fairy, and Marseilles may be used. If the skin is 

 sore it is advisable to use pure Castile soap. Scented 

 toilet soaps, liquid shampoo soaps, and tar soap are 

 allowable. Medicated soaps are not necessary airi 



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