If you share your life with a dog, you know just how dirty dogs can get. But, bathing your pup at home can be a back-breaking experience. Not only do you need to spend time bent over a tub, but then you also need to clean up the mess once you’re done. Let’s not forget about the possible clogged pipes from all that fur. But now, you have another option to clean your dog. That is going to a self serve dog wash station in Fort Worth, Texas.
Most self serve dog wash stations provide you with just about everything you need to wash your pup, including an elevated tub, shampoo and a dryer. The best part is, they do all the cleaning up!
But, there are only a few DIY dog wash places in Fort Worth, Texas, so knowing where to look for one can be difficult.
To make life easier for you we have done the research to find the best self-serve dog washing stations in Fort Worth, Texas.
Information in this post is subject to change without notice. While we strive to insure accuracy on Happyoodles.com, accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Also, the mentioning of a business in this post should not be viewed as an endorsement.
How much does a self-serve dog wash station cost in Fort Worth, Texas?
The cost to use a self-serve dog wash in the Fort Worth, Texas Area is between $15 and $35. While many businesses charge a flat rate, some fees are determined by size. In addition to the self-serve pet wash station, many businesses offer add-on services like nail trimming, ear cleaning and even doggy facials. Usually, add-on services come with an extra fee.
An alternative to going out to wash your dog is created a Dog Wash Station in your home. To learn more check out our post on Best Dog Wash Station Ideas for your Home with 75+ Photos
How often should you wash your Dog?
How often you should wash your dog depends on their fur type and activities. Long haired dogs require regular grooming and should be bathed every 4 to 8 weeks. Medium and short haired dogs can go longer, unless they spend a lot of time outside or are prone to getting dirty.
Selecting a Self-Service Dog Wash Station in Fort Worth, Texas
While going to the nearest do-it-yourself dog wash may be convenient, you might be better off checking out a few places, then deciding which one is best. Self wash stations are not all alike. Differences between pet wash business can include size of tubs, cost and what is included with a self-serve wash.
When checking out a dog wash location make sure to leave your dog at home. This way you won’t be distracted by them.
Also, don’t forget to ask questions. Not only will you learn about what you can expect at the dog wash, but even a short conversion with the people that work there will give you a feel for how the place is run.
Here are a few suggestions on what to look for and ask about.
- Are the tubs cleaned in between use?
- Are there walls or dividers between the tubs? For friendly dogs not having walls may not be an issue. But if you have a reactive dog, having some time of visual barrier will help the process go smoothly.
- Are there gates to keep a dog from running out of the store?
- If you have a dog that stays by your side this is probably not an issue.
- But if you have a dog that doesn’t like bath time this can be a life saver.
- Look for safely features like non-slip mats or flooring in the tub and on the floor outside of the tub
- How do dogs enter the tub? Is there a ramp or steps to get into the bath? If so, will your dog be able to use them safely? Ramps are easier for large and older dogs to use.
- Are there tub restraints?
- How much time do you get in the tub for the initial fee? Can you add extra time if you need it?
- What supplies are included? Typically, shampoos are included, but not all places provide towels. Some places will allow you to add-on specialty shampoos for a fee.
- Do they allow walk-ins or do you need to make an appointment in advance? Check to see if they charge late fees or no-show fees.
- Do they offer other services? Some stores may offer services like nail trimming and ear cleaning for an extra fee.
- If you have a large dog like a Bernedoodle or Golden Retriever make sure the tub is big enough for them to comfortable turn around.
- What form of payment do they take?
How to Use a Self Serve Dog Wash Station in Fort Worth, Texas
After you have chosen the best place for you, it’s time to bring your dog to get washed. Here are some tips based on our own experiences. They may or may not apply to you. Please use your best judgment when using a dog wash.
Before you go
- If you are going later in the day check to see when the tubs are closed for the night. Many businesses close the self wash stations early to give employees time to clean the tubs.
- Make sure to gather all your supplies before you go. Items that might not be included are; a dog brush, face wipes, preferred shampoos and conditioners.
- Thoroughly brush your dog’s coat before going to the dog wash. This is an important step if you have a long or curly haired dog, like a Mini Bernedoodle.
- If you can, take your dog for a walk or romp in the dog park before going to the store. This will allow them to burn off excess energy before the wash.
Once you are there
- If you scheduled an appointment, arrive on time. Otherwise you may not have enough time to thoroughly clean your dog.
- Check in with the staff and pay.
- Select the tub that fits your dog the best.
- Use the provided tub restraints. Tub restraints are there to keep your dog from jumping out and getting hurt.
- Never leave your dog unattended in the tub
- Check the water temperature to ensure it’s not too hot or too cold for your dog.
- Start washing your pup. Begin by rinsing them. Make sure you don’t get water in their ears, as it may cause an infection.
- Next, apply shampoo and lather. I prefer to start at the base of the neck and move down towards their backside. Don’t forget to wash underneath.
- If your dog has a thick coat, a rubber dog bath brush will help you get down to their skin
- When you are done washing make sure to rinse them thoroughly. Any shampoo that is left behind may irritate their skin.
- If you choose to use a conditioner this is the time to apply it. Rinse it out if necessary.
- Now it’s time to dry your pup. Squeeze out as much water from their fur as you can. This will shorten the drying time.
- Next, if towels are available, towel dry them before using the air blower.
- Use the air dryer to completely dry them.
- The loud sound of the air dryer might frighten some dogs.
- If the dryer has multiple settings start out with the lowest setting and them move up as they become comfortable.
Self Serve Dog Wash in Fort Worth, Texas
Forth Worth has a limited number of self-serve pet wash stations. But as more people realize this service is a needed, I think you will see more business opening.
1. Happy K9
Happy K9 bills themselves as Fort Worth’s original full-service wash destination that offers both self wash and staff wash options. Plus, they offer full-service grooming. Self-washes are available on a walk-in basis, just make sure to check the times for the last wash. Also ask about their membership program.
Happy K9 has two convenient locations to choose from.
Clifford St
Camp Bowie
Cost of the self serve dog wash includes:
- Tub
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Dryer
- Towels
- Apron
- Friendly staff
2. Pet Bar
The Pet Bar is a combination of corporate owned locations and franchised dog wash stations. They offer both DIY dog baths and full-service grooming. Appointments are not necessary. However, the last bath starts 30 minutes before closing.
The Pet Bar differs from the rest of the pet washes on this list because they are membership based only. Meaning you need to be a member of the Pet Bar to use their facilities. Membership prices are based on the size of your dog. A monthly membership gives you unlimited access to the DIY baths based on availability.
The only Pet Bar in Fort Worth is located at
Fort Worth – Waterside, TX
- Address: 5925 Convair Drive Suite 553 Fort Worth TX 76109
- Phone: 817-615-9398
- Email: [email protected]
Pet Bar Dog baths include:
- Waist high stainless-steel tubs
- Non-slip ramps
- Aprons
- Towels
- Brushes
- Cologne
- Ear cleaner
- Toothbrushes
- Professional dryers.
3. Metro Animals Pet Wash
Metro Animals has multiple locations and offers an array of services, including doggy day care, full-service grooming and self-serve dog wash stations. Although they have three locations only one has a self serve pet wash. You can find it at:
- Address: 7100 Camp Bowie W Blvd. Fort Worth TX 76116
- Phone: 817-759-9996
The Metro Animals Pet Wash is conveniently located near the Z Bonz Dog Park.
When you take your dog to the Metro Animals pet wash you will be supplied with:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towels
- Dryers
- Nail clippers
- Toothbrushes
- Ear wipes
- Eye wipes
- Brushes
- Combs
- Cleanup