Bathtime at El Refugio

It's hot and it's sticky.  Most of our lovely dogs don't look or feel so lovely when they first come to us. Whether they've been dumped in the street, at our gates, in the campo or abandoned at the killing stations they arrive with matted coats that are full of ticks and bugs. The  poor dogs are overheated, smelly and miserable. 

We put that right as soon as we possibly can. After a visit to the vet they get a nice bath and haircut and we soon have them feeling much better. Although they literally lose their stinking coats and ticks and bugs this treatment is also symbolic. It's the first step away from the horrible, rotten lives they have endured so far and towards a bright and happy future. 

It's nice and cool, but I'm still not sure about this

Hmmm ... what exactly are you doing?

A nice, kissy hug - that's better

 You won't hurt me, will you?

 Ear, ear!

 Looking better already

A gentleman likes to keep his ears neat ...

And it's good if he can see too.

 Hold still now!

 Are you nearly done?

 Just one last bit.

Finishing touches. What a handsome lad!