Siberian Husky Grooming

Question
Hello!  I have a question about my Siberian Husky.  We recently got him from an older couple who's grandson dumped him there.  He has fleas and we desperately need to bathe him.  Here is the kicker.  He was abused as a puppy with water.  Any sign of water and this huge dog will be cowered underneath the nearest object.  I don't want to traumatize him anymore and honestly I cannot afford to go to the vet (I was told it would cost around $150 to bathe and sedate).  Should I see the vet to get sedatives for him or is there an easier method?  Thank you!

Answer
Until you gain his confidence  I would sponge bath him.  Or even get the cleaning wipes from the pet stores.   For his fleas I would go to the vet and get a Capstar.  It will kill every flea on him in 20 minutes, but only last 24 hours, sooooo also get frontline or advantage drops.  Capstar is a pill and is very safe.     I don't know how bad he is to bathe, but use the dry wipes for now.  Then start with a sponge bath,  using a sponge low suds soap and towels.    Don't pour water on him yet.  If this doesn't work, you can get a tranquilizer from the vet and bathe him that way.
good luck nancy