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Holiday Shine: Why Bathing and Fluffing Your Dog Brings More Than Just Cheer
Allen Rippy, Veterinarian, Author
Sep 1, 2025
6 min read
Holidays have a way of magnifying everything—our emotions, our traditions, our connections. For dogs, this is especially true. They pick up on our excitement, our bustle, and our gatherings. What better time than the holidays to give your four-legged friend a little extra sparkle with a warm bath, a good fluff, and an outing where they can be part of the celebration?
The science behind this is more than cosmetic. Clean, fluffy fur invites touch—and every stroke of your hand releases oxytocin, the hormone of trust and bonding, in both you and your dog. Research shows that petting a freshly groomed dog reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens emotional connection. Add to that the joy of showing off a gleaming pup to friends and relatives, and suddenly grooming becomes a shared holiday ritual of health and happiness.
Bathing also supports your dog’s physical wellbeing. Removing allergens, loose hair, and skin debris reduces itching and infection risk while enhancing that healthy shine. Fluffing the coat afterward stimulates circulation and aerates the skin, leaving your dog not only looking gorgeous but feeling vibrant.
And then comes the social side. The holidays are filled with opportunities—family gatherings, neighborhood strolls, holiday markets. A freshly fluffed dog becomes an irresistible icebreaker. Strangers smile, children giggle, conversations begin. For people who sometimes struggle with small talk, your dog becomes the bridge to human connection.
So this holiday season, consider your dog not only a family member but also your sparkling companion in joy and health. Bathe, fluff, and share them proudly with the world. It’s one of the simplest ways to weave together beauty, wellness, and community spirit—all wrapped up in a wagging tail.