The pet spa industry has a lot of creative and talented workers who truly enjoy caring for animals, but some pet spas have better techniques and training than others. As you examine the next spa for your precious pet, consider a few key treatments, techniques and services that any excellent pet spa should have.

Understand Shampoo Ingredients

Just as humans may need specialized shampoos for specific textures or avoiding allergies, your pet may need specific products or mixtures in order to be clean and healthy. Some newly-founded pet spas may begin with good intentions by stocking a wide variety of pet shampoo products, but there is a science to the hair, fur, skin and scale product selection.

For example, examine dog shampoos. Some dogs have thicker coats of fur that may require longer soaking, but their skin may be too sensitive for certain shampoo types. If you use a flea-killing or scented shampoo on a large fur pet, the treatment may lead to irritation and irregular fur loss.

A dog with dry skin issues may need a soap-free washing product, such as berry or vegetable-based cleaners. Some pet spa operators use fabric softener in addition to their shampoos in order to reduce static electricity in the pet's coat, so make sure that your pet isn't allergic to the ingredients in the fabric softener. Fabric softener is also used to reduce shedding for some fur types, so be sure to ask about the pet spa's logic behind washing materials.

Teeth Brushing Gel Research

Tooth and gum condition is important, and unless you're visiting the veterinarian on a regular basis, you may as well have your pet's teeth lightly brushed while at the spa.

Many pet dental care products are available in gel or spray form for easy application. It's important to note that some pets are too small to have their teeth sprayed by some products—a animal may simply have their faces sprayed, leading to irritation of body and mood.

There are some pet dental products that contain grain alcohol. In a warning list of hazardous foods for dogs by the ASPCA, grain alcohol is listed for its dangers due to a dog's higher sensitivity to alcohol. Compared to humans, some pets simply can't deal with alcoholic substances in even small amounts without becoming violently ill.

Gum sensitivity can also be a concern, and you'll need to inspect the spa's dental hygiene equipment. Look for a variety of bristle densities, softness and handle shapes that can make the brushing process more simple and comfortable for the pet. If necessary, have the spa technician demonstrate the process before leaving your pet in their care.

If you need specific advice for your pet's grooming, contact a professional pet spa such as Animal Inn Pet Boarding Kennel and ask about their services for your pet breed.