Spa-tacular showdown

To improve your furkid’s skin and coat while treating him to an indulgent massage, go the extra mile with a spa-worthy mud or clay pack. We pamper our furry tester, Piper, with a few.
Justina Tan 07 September 2016

Our criteria
° Is it easy to apply and wash off?
° Is the smell pleasant?
° Are the ingredients suitable for sensitive skin?
° How does Fido’s skin and coat feel after treatment?

 

ROOTS DEAD SEA MUD WRAP
from Roots Technologies
Price: $40 for 500g; and $288 for 9kg

How it works: Made with mineral-rich Dead Sea mud, skin-soothing aloe vera and calamine, and hydrating rosemary, this mud pack contains 46 skin-nourishing minerals to combat skin allergies and absorb excess oil. Wet Fido’s fur thoroughly, and work a generous amount of mud deep into his coat, avoiding the eyes, nostrils, and mouth. Leave on for 15 to 30 minutes before rinsing off.
Verdict: The product had a grainy texture, which took some effort to work through Piper’s fur and to wash out after. It didn’t change the texture of her coat, but her hot spots seemed less angry. Although not indicated, it’s likely that the mud has no artificial fragrance or emulsifiers, as it had a rather strong medicated scent and a watery layer formed at the top when left to sit for some time. Give it a good stir before use.
Score: 3.5/5

 

MADRA MÓR CANINE SPA TREATMENTS SOOTHING MUD
from www.petronize.com.sg
Price: $60 for 296ml

How it works: Formulated with mineral-rich clay, this mud pack has high concentrations of colloidal oatmeal and skin-loving ingredients such as organic aloe vera powder, allantoin, vitamin E, and zinc. It also treats irritated, itchy skin with witch hazel (to reduce inflammation), liquorice (to calm skin), and lavender essential oil (to heal and soothe skin). Wet Fido’s coat and apply a generous amount of product to the skin, separating the fur to do so if necessary. Avoid the eyes and ears. Using repetitive, rhythmic strokes, gently massage your pooch for 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
Verdict: The thick, toothpaste-textured mud was easily dispensed from the eco-friendly pouch it came in. About a third of the contents were required for a 4kg dog. The emollient product glided effortlessly over Piper’s skin and through her fur, making it easy to give her a pampering massage. It was also a cinch to rinse off. Piper's coat was pleasantly scented after use, and had a soft and fluffy finish.
Score: 4.5/5 

For our take on more canine mud packs, flip to Tried and Tested of our Aug-Sep 2016 issue!