Freshen Up for Fall

Regular grooming helps remove loose fur, dirt, and debris while keeping your dog’s skin and coat clean and manageable.

October Grooming Special

• New grooming customers receive 10% OFF their first grooming appointment PLUS a FREE Blueberry Facial!
• It is the perfect time to try professional grooming at Bark If You’re Dirty and get your pup looking and smelling fresh for fall.

Looking for dog grooming in Phoenix or Scottsdale, AZ? Schedule your pup’s first grooming appointment and take advantage of our October special!

Prefer to do it yourself? Stop by our self-service dog wash and leave the mess with us! If your dog gets regular baths, ask about our Self-Wash Membership and how you can save.

Healthy Dog. Happy Dog.

Good nutrition plays an important role in your dog’s overall wellness. Quality food can help support healthy skin and coat, digestion, energy, and everyday health.

At Bark If You’re Dirty, we offer healthy, high-quality pet food and a knowledgeable team that can help you find options based on your pet’s needs.

Don’t forget to ask about our frequent buyer programs and monthly specials!

Halloween Safety for Dogs

Halloween is fun, but remember to keep human candy away from your pup. Chocolate can be dangerous for dogs, and some sugar-free products contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.

• Instead, let your pup join the fun with dog-friendly treats and fresh bakery goodies from Bark If You’re Dirty!
• Planning a costume? Make sure it is comfortable and does not restrict your dog’s movement, breathing, hearing, or vision. If your pup is not enjoying it, a festive bandana or collar is a great alternative.

Prepare for Trick-or-Treaters

• Doorbells, costumes, and strangers can be stressful for some dogs.
• Give nervous pups a comfortable space away from the front door, and make sure their collar and ID information are current.
• If you are heading out for an evening walk, reflective collars, leashes, or lights can help keep you and your dog visible.

Make October Pawsome!

From fresh grooms and easy self-washes to healthy food and Halloween treats, Bark If You’re Dirty has what you need for a happy, healthy October. Visit us in Phoenix or Scottsdale, Arizona, and let us help you spoil your four-legged family member!

SHOP LOCAL • LOVE YOUR PET • BARK IF YOU’RE DIRTY

Keep Your Dog Safe During the Arizona Heat

Arizona summers can be tough on pets. Even in August, pavement temperatures can exceed  making walks dangerous during the middle of the day.

To help keep your dog safe:

• Walk early in the morning or after sunset.
• Always carry fresh water.
• Watch for signs of overheating such as excessive panting or fatigue.
• Protect sensitive paws from hot pavement.

Keeping your pet cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for their health.

Professional Dog Grooming in Phoenix & Scottsdale

Regular grooming does much more than keep your dog looking great.

Professional grooming helps:

• Remove excess undercoat to keep pets cooler.
• Prevent painful mats and tangles.
• Reduce shedding around your home.
• Maintain healthy skin and coat.
• Keep nails, ears, and paws healthy.

Whether your dog needs a full haircut, bath, deshedding treatment, nail trim, or ear cleaning, our experienced groomers provide gentle, personalized care for every breed and coat type.

Appointments fill quickly before Labor Day and the fall season, so now is a great time to reserve your grooming appointment.

Feed Better, Feel Better

Nutrition plays a huge role in your pet’s overall health. At Bark If You’re Dirty, we carry premium dog and cat foods made with high-quality ingredients and no unnecessary fillers.

Our team can help you choose the right food based on your pet’s:

• Age
• Breed
• Activity level
• Weight goals
• Food sensitivities

We proudly offer trusted brands featuring wholesome ingredients to help support healthy digestion, skin, coat, energy, and long-term wellness.

Skip the Mess with Our Self-Service Dog Wash

Bathing your dog at home can be messy and time-consuming. Our self-service dog wash in Phoenix and Scottsdale makes bath time simple.

We provide:

• Professional tubs
• Premium shampoos and conditioners
• Towels
• High-powered dryers
• Aprons
• Cleanup afterward

You simply wash your dog—we handle the cleanup.

It’s one of the easiest ways to keep your dog clean between grooming appointments.

Healthy Treats, Toys & Supplements

Looking for more than just pet food? We carry a carefully selected assortment of:

• Natural dog treats
• Freeze-dried and raw nutrition
• Joint and mobility supplements
• Skin and coat support
• Dental chews
• Durable toys and enrichment products

Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to recommend products that fit your pet’s individual needs.

Shop Local and Support an Arizona Pet Store

When you shop at Bark If You’re Dirty, you’re supporting a locally owned Arizona pet store—not a big-box retailer. Every purchase helps us continue providing personalized service, expert recommendations, professional grooming, self-wash stations, and high-quality pet products for families throughout the Valley.

You can also shop online for convenient local pickup or delivery, making it easier than ever to keep your pet stocked with the food and supplies they love.

Visit Bark If You’re Dirty Today

Whether you’re searching for:

• Dog grooming in Phoenix
• Dog grooming in Scottsdale
• Self-service dog wash near me
• Healthy pet food near me
• Premium dog food in Arizona
• Professional nail trims for dogs
• Pet supplies in Phoenix or Scottsdale

Bark If You’re Dirty is your one-stop destination for happier, healthier pets.

Stop by today, schedule your next grooming appointment, or browse our online store. We look forward to helping you and your pets stay healthy, clean, and happy all year long!

Looking Ahead to Fall

As temperatures begin to cool over the next few months, now is the perfect time to establish a regular grooming schedule, refresh your pet’s nutrition, and stock up on essentials before the busy holiday season. Your pet deserves the best care every season, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Looking for self-wash near you in SCOTTSDALE or PHOENIX? Bark If You’re Dirty offers full-service grooming, self-serve dog wash stations, nail trims, and natural bathing products at BOTH our locations. Stop in today!

At Bark If You’re Dirty, we see firsthand how Arizona’s summer weather affects pets, and we’re here to help with everything from professional grooming to healthy nutrition and cooling essentials.

Protect Your Dog’s Paws from Hot Pavement
One of the biggest summer hazards in Arizona is hot asphalt. Pavement can easily reach 140°F or more when the air temperature is over 100°F, causing painful burns within seconds.

Before every walk:

• Test the pavement with the back of your hand for 7 seconds.
• Walk during the early morning or after sunset.
• Stick to grass or shaded paths whenever possible.
• Consider protective dog booties for sensitive paws.

If your dog hesitates to walk or begins licking their paws afterward, inspect them immediately for signs of burns or irritation.

Hydration is More Important Than Ever
Pets can become dehydrated much faster during Arizona summers.

Make sure your pet always has:

• Fresh, cool water available
• Extra water during walks and car rides
• Frequent breaks when outdoors
• Shade whenever they’re outside

Even a short outing can become dangerous if your pet overheats.

Summer Grooming Helps More Than You Think
Many pet parents assume shaving is always the best solution for summer, but that’s not true for every breed. A healthy coat actually helps regulate body temperature and protects the skin from harmful UV rays.

Regular professional grooming can:

• Remove excess undercoat that traps heat
• Reduce shedding around your home
• Prevent painful mats that hold heat and moisture
• Improve skin health and circulation
• Keep your pet cleaner and more comfortable

If you’re unsure what haircut is best for your dog, our professional groomers can recommend the safest option based on breed, coat type, and lifestyle.

Don’t Forget About Cats
Indoor cats feel the Arizona heat too.

Keep your cat comfortable by:

• Providing multiple fresh water stations
• Brushing regularly to remove loose fur
• Keeping litter boxes in cooler areas
• Scheduling routine nail trims and coat maintenance

Even cats that never go outside benefit from regular grooming during the hotter months.

Feed for Health, Not Just Fullness
Summer is a great time to evaluate your pet’s nutrition. High-quality foods provide better hydration support, healthier skin, improved digestion, and stronger immune systems.

At Bark If You’re Dirty, we carry premium dog and cat foods, freeze-dried diets, raw nutrition, healthy treats, and supplements carefully selected to help pets thrive year-round.

Our knowledgeable team is always happy to help you choose the right food for your pet’s age, activity level, and health needs.

Cool Activities for Hot Days

When temperatures soar, try indoor or water-based activities:

• Visit a self-wash station for a refreshing bath.
• Freeze healthy treats inside enrichment toys.
• Practice training games indoors.
• Offer cooling mats or elevated beds.
• Schedule a professional grooming appointment to help your pet feel fresh and comfortable.

Keeping your pet mentally engaged is just as important as physical exercise during extreme heat.

Visit Bark If You’re Dirty This Summer
Arizona summers don’t have to slow you and your pet down. Whether your furry friend needs a refreshing groom, healthy food, fun toys, cooling accessories, or a convenient self-wash, we’re here to help.

Visit our Scottsdale or Phoenix locations and let our pet-loving team help keep your dog or cat happy, healthy, and comfortable all summer long.

Schedule Your Grooming Appointment Today
Beat the summer rush by booking your grooming appointment early. Your pet will look great, feel cooler, and you’ll both enjoy a cleaner, happier summer.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Looking for a self-wash near you in SCOTTSDALE or PHOENIX? Bark If You’re Dirty offers full-service grooming, self-serve dog wash stations, nail trims, and natural bathing products at BOTH our locations. Stop in today!

On your couch, your clothes, your car—welcome to shedding season!

The good news? Shedding is completely normal. The better news? With the right routine, you can control it instead of letting it control you.

🐕 Why Do Dogs Shed More in Spring?

Dogs naturally shed their heavier winter coats to prepare for warmer temperatures. This process helps regulate their body temperature, but it can feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared.

Certain breeds (like Huskies, Shepherds, and Labs) will “blow their coat,” meaning they shed large amounts all at once.

🚿 Step 1: Regular Grooming is Your Best Defense

The #1 way to manage shedding is simple: stay ahead of it.

• Brush your dog 2–4 times per week (daily for heavy shedders)
• Use the right tools (de-shedding brushes, undercoat rakes)
• Don’t skip professional grooming appointments

💡 Pro Tip: A professional de-shedding treatment can remove a huge amount of loose fur safely—way more than brushing at home.

🛁 Step 2: Bathing the Right Way

Bathing helps loosen and remove dead hair—but only if done correctly.

• Use a high-quality de-shedding shampoo
• Always follow with a conditioner to keep skin hydrated
• Fully dry your dog (this helps release even more loose fur)

👉 This is where a self-wash station can be a game changer—no mess at home, and you get access to professional tools that make the job easier.

🥗 Step 3: Nutrition Matters More Than You Think

A healthy coat starts from within.

Poor diet = excessive shedding.

Look for:

• High-quality proteins
• Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids
• Minimal fillers and artificial ingredients

Adding healthy toppers or upgrading your pet’s food can make a noticeable difference in coat health and shedding levels.

Looking for self wash near you in SCOTTSDALE or PHOENIX? Bark If You’re Dirty offers full-service grooming, self-serve dog wash stations, nail trims, and natural bathing products at BOTH our locations. Stop in today!

🧼 Step 4: Keep Your Home (Somewhat) Fur-Free

Even with great grooming, some shedding is inevitable.

Here’s how to manage it:

• Vacuum frequently (especially high-traffic areas)
• Use washable throws on furniture
• Keep lint rollers in every room (trust us)

⚠️ When Shedding Might Be a Problem

Not all shedding is normal. Watch for:

• Bald patches
• Red, irritated skin
• Excessive scratching
• Dull or brittle coat

If you notice these signs, it could be allergies, diet issues, or skin conditions—and it’s worth addressing early.

✂️ The Secret Weapon: Professional De-Shedding Treatments

If shedding feels out of control, it’s time to bring in the pros.

A professional grooming session can:

• Remove deeply trapped undercoat
• Improve skin and coat health
• Reduce shedding for weeks

🐾 Final Thoughts

Shedding season doesn’t have to take over your home (or your sanity).

With the right mix of:

✔️ Regular brushing
✔️ Proper bathing
✔️ Quality nutrition
✔️ Professional grooming

…you can keep your dog comfortable and your space a lot cleaner.

📣 Ready to Take Control of Shedding Season?

Book a professional de-shedding treatment or stop by and use our self-wash stations to make bath time easier than ever.

Less fur, more cuddles—let’s make it happen. 🐶✨

For our feline friends, it can be even more dangerous. As most are covered in a layer of fur — some much thicker than others — it can mean their temperature rises rapidly in direct sunlight. As a result, they’re at high risk of the effects of the sun, including heatstroke.

So knowing the signs of heatstroke in cats is crucial for all cat parents: if you see any of them, you have the knowledge to act quickly and help your cat before they become seriously ill.

What is heatstroke in cats?

Heatstroke in cats occurs when their body temperature reaches dangerously high levels. 

A cat’s normal body temperature is between 100.5°F and 102.5°F (38.1°C-39.2°C). This can go higher if they’re suffering from an illness that gives them a fever. 

However, if their temperature reaches above 104°F (40°C), it’s a sign they’re suffering from heatstroke. This can lead to dehydration, seizures, organ damage and, in severe cases, death.

What are the signs of heatstroke in cats?

Signs and symptoms that your cat might be suffering from heatstroke include:

• Confusion
• Drooling
• Panting
• Bright red or pale gums
• Increased heart rate
• Seizures
• Lethargy
• Vomiting and diarrhea
•  

If you suspect your cat is suffering from heatstroke, it’s an emergency, and you should seek help and advice from your vet immediately.

How do you avoid your cat getting heatstroke?

Cats are sun-worshippers — they love nothing more than to find a warm place, stretch out and soak in the warmth for hours. Your cat can’t sweat (except through their paw pads), so to cool themselves down they either lick themselves or seek shade when they become too hot. They don’t often build up too much heat due to exercise or overexertion, so usually the causes of heatstroke in cats is a result of being shut in a warm building such as a greenhouse or conservatory for too long and then overheating, so ensure you never shut them in rooms that get hot — this includes vehicles, which can also be lethal for cats on hot days.

Ensure your cat always has access to fresh water, especially during heatwaves, and feeding them wet food will increase their moisture intake. Ensure they always have a shady spot in which to cool down, and keep your house well-ventilated when the heat rises, using fans, air-conditioning or open windows to get a cooling breeze blowing. Also, avoid taking them in the car when temperatures are high. 

Something else to be aware of is your cat’s weight — if your cat is overweight or obese, they are more susceptible to heatstroke. Also, flat-faced breeds such as Persian, Himalayan or Burmese cats are at higher risk, as are younger and older cats.

The key thing to remember is to keep an eye on them in hot weather, try to keep them indoors in a well-ventilated room where possible, ensure you don’t accidentally shut them in a room, and don’t take them in the car unless absolutely necessary.

What should you do if you think your cat has heatstroke?

The first thing is to try to cool them down. Try to get them to drink water (don’t force them, though) and cool them down with ice packs and fans. Whether you think the heatstroke is mild or severe, you should aim to get your cat to the vet as a priority. Your vet will then assess the severity of the situation and may put your cat on a fluid drip. 

They may also need blood and urine tests if they’ve suffered severe heatstroke and dehydration. They may have to stay in and be monitored for a few days to ensure they’re ok.

The Big Dangers: More Than Just Feeling Hot

Extreme heat poses several significant risks to our pets:

1.  Heatstroke (Hyperthermia): This is a life-threatening emergency. Unlike humans, dogs and cats primarily cool themselves by panting. When they can’t pant fast enough to dissipate heat, their internal body temperature rises to dangerous levels, potentially causing organ damage or death.

1. Signs: Excessive panting, thick drool, bright red gums/tongue, lethargy, weakness, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, stumbling, collapse, seizures.
2. Higher Risk Pets: Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persians; elderly pets; overweight pets; pets with heart or respiratory conditions; dark-coated pets.

2.  Dehydration: Just like us, pets need plenty of water to stay cool and function properly. Heat increases water loss through panting and sweating (minimally through paws).

1. Signs: Lethargy, dry gums, sunken eyes, loss of skin elasticity (if you gently pinch the skin on their back, it doesn’t spring back quickly), thick saliva.

3.  Burnt Paw Pads: This is a major, often overlooked danger here in Arizona. Pavement, asphalt, sand, and even artificial turf absorb and retain heat intensely, reaching temperatures far higher than the air temperature. Walking on these surfaces can cause painful blisters and burns on your pet’s sensitive paw pads.

Pavement Power: How Hot is Too Hot?

Never underestimate how hot surfaces can get. Your pet’s paws are vulnerable! Here’s a general idea of how pavement temperatures soar compared to the air temperature:

The 5-Second Rule: Place the back of your hand firmly on the pavement for 5-7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your pet’s paws!

4.  Sunburn: Yes, pets can get sunburned too! Especially those with white or light-colored fur, thin coats, or pink skin around the nose and ears are susceptible

Keeping Your Cool: Essential Summer Safety Tips

• Timing is Everything: Walk dogs during the coolest parts of the day – early morning (before sunrise if possible!) or late evening, well after the sun has set and surfaces have had time to cool down. Midday walks are a major risk.
• Surface Smarts: Stick to grassy areas or shaded paths whenever possible. If you must cross pavement, do it quickly. Consider protective dog booties (allow time for your dog to get used to them indoors first). Never force your pet to stand or walk on hot surfaces.
• Hydration Hero: Always provide access to fresh, cool water indoors and outdoors (in shade). Bring water and a collapsible bowl on walks, no matter how short. Add ice cubes to their water bowl.
• NEVER, EVER Leave Pets in Cars: Even on a seemingly mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can skyrocket to lethal levels within minutes – even with windows cracked. It’s dangerous, potentially fatal, and illegal in many places. Just don’t do it.
• Provide Shade & Cool Zones: Ensure pets have access to shady spots if they spend time outdoors. Indoors, air conditioning is best. Cooling mats, elevated beds (allowing airflow underneath), or even damp towels can provide relief. Some dogs enjoy a shallow kiddie pool with cool water.
• Grooming Considerations: While fur can offer some insulation, matted coats trap heat. Regular grooming is important. However, **don’t assume shaving is always best**, especially for double-coated breeds (like Huskies, German Shepherds). Their undercoat can actually help regulate temperature. Consult your vet or a professional groomer about the best approach for your specific pet’s coat.
• Know the Signs & Act Fast: If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cool, shaded area or A/C immediately. Offer cool (not ice-cold) water. Apply cool, damp cloths to their head, neck, armpits, groin, and paws. **Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency vet clinic immediately – this is crucial even if they seem to be recovering.

Summer in Arizona is beautiful, but it demands extra vigilance from pet parents. By understanding the risks and taking these precautions, you can ensure your beloved companions stay safe, comfortable, and happy all season long. Stay cool out there!

Heat Safety Tips:
Heat safety is crucial for our beloved furry friends, especially during scorching summer months. Dogs and cats are susceptible to heat-related injuries and illnesses, pet owners must be vigilant in protecting them from the dangers of hot pavement and surfaces. On hot days, asphalt and concrete can reach scalding temperatures that can quickly burn the sensitive paw pads of our pets. To prevent this, it’s essential to take walks during cooler hours of the day, such as early mornings or late evenings when the ground is not as hot. Consider our Alcott Dog boots for maximum safety!

Walking Dogs in Hot Weather
Check the pavement. Asphalt, concrete, and sand on a sunny day can potentially be 40° – 60° hotter than the air temperature, and 125°F pavement can damage your pup’s paws in as little as 60 seconds.