During the pandemic lockdown, I gave my dog a DIY beauty tre

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Hey there, fur parents! You've been stuck at home for what feels like an eternity, right? Well, guess who else is feeling the cabin fever? That's right, your four-legged buddy! While you've been perfecting your sourdough skills and binge-watching "The Office" for the umpteenth time, your pooch has been growing out that mane like a true lockdown rockstar. It's time for a DIY doggy spa day, and I'm here to guide you through it with a healthy dose of humor and some solid advice.

Get Your Tools Ready

Before we dive into the fun stuff, let's talk tools. You'll need a good pair of grooming scissors, a comb, a brush, some doggy shampoo, and a towel. Oh, and don't forget the treats! You're going to be your dog's personal groomer, so make sure you've got everything within arm's reach. You don't want to be running to the bathroom every five minutes for more shampoo. Trust me, your dog will not appreciate the interruption of their pampering session.

TheChallenge

Now, let's start with the challenge. Your dog's fur has probably turned into a tangled mess, and it's time to detangle those knots. But here's the catch: you have to do it without turning your living room into a fur. Get down on your dog's level and start from the bottom, working your way up. Use a lot of treats as a peace offering. If you manage to get through this without a single snarl, consider yourself a grooming god or goddess.

The Shampoo Show

Next up, the shampoo show. Fill up your sink or bathtub (if your dog is extra brave) with some lukewarm water. Get your doggy shampoo ready and lather up that fur. Here's where the fun begins. Your dog will probably try to shake off the water, which means you'll be in for a surprise shower. Embrace it! It's like a free spa treatment for you too. Just make sure to avoid the face area; no one likes soap in their eyes, not even your furry friend.

The Trim Tampering

Now, it's time for the trim. This is where you can really let your inner stylist shine. But remember, less is more. You're not going for a precision haircut here; you're aiming for "rustic charm." Focus on the areas where fur can mat easily, like behind the ears and around the paws. And whatever you do, don't trim the tail. That's a mistake you'll regret, and your dog will never forgive you.

The Treats Triumph

Throughout this entire process, treats are your best friend. Reward your dog for their patience and cooperation. They've been through a lot, and they deserve it. Plus, it's a great way to keep them distracted while you're trying to trim those pesky knots.

The Aftermath

Once you're done, towel dry your dog and give them one last treat. They've been a trooper, and they deserve it. Take a moment to admire your handiwork. Your dog might not look like a salon-fresh pup, but they're clean, they're happy, and they've got the best parent in the world.

So there you have it, folks. DIY doggy grooming in the time of COVID-19. It's been a wild ride, but you've survived it, and your dog is looking better than ever. Now, go ahead and give your furry friend a big ol' hug. They've earned it!