While the presence of dogs in your house may make it feel like home, it can also make it really messy. Dirty paws, dog hair, accidents and food spills can all turn your lovely home into a dump – quicker than you think. Try these tips for a house that’s as clean as your dog.
Restricting Your Dog’s Access in Your Home
Pet owners cannot be home 24 hours a day to give their pet constant attention, and that’s often when the mess is made. Consider installing a gate, available at pet stores and online retailers, to restrict your pet’s movements around the house. Easy to install, a gate can prevent accidents and messes in your home.
Another option is a cage or crate if your home is not suitable for a gate. Make sure the cage is big enough for the dog to move around in, and make it comfortable for them. Veterinarians deal with many people, dogs and situations. Your vet may have a novel solution that suits your home.
How to Tackle Odors and Stains
Because you live with your pet, you will have become accustomed to their unique scent. Your family and friends have not, and unless you want to hand out gas masks as they enter your home, you may want to do the smell test.
The smell test is best performed by a brutally honest friend or neighbor – the kind who won’t mince words. Invite them in and ask them to breathe in. It’s time to do something about doggy odors if they can smell ’scent of dog’ anywhere in your home.
Open the windows throughout the home to let fresh air circulate. Sometimes the smell may be a new one, coming from a specific room or area in the house, a sign that the smell may be from a recent accident. Check to see if the area is still moist. If it is, blot the area immediately. Apply a cleaner that is designed for pet odors. If you don’t have a product handy and you are pressed for time, try a disinfectant spray that kills odors. You can also sprinkle some baking soda on the spot. Vacuum it up when it has completely dried. Do not use an air freshener as it will only mask the scent, not eliminate it. If an accident is the source of the odor, you will need to blot the area if it is still damp. Although your best bet is a cleaner specially made for dog odors, baking soda sprinkled on the area will absorb moisture and odors quite effectively, and can be vacuumed up once dry. A disinfectant spray will help, but normal air fresheners will only hide the smell for a short while.
Remember – You Are the Boss
Don’t forget that you are the boss of your home, and it is up to you to make the rules and enforce them. If the gate or cage are not helping, you may want to ask your vet for other suggestions. Obedience training can help you take control.
For additional information, please contact us since we are the and specialists!