Share with dog lovers!
As we move into the warmer months, a good spring cleaning is on the bucket list for many of our homes. But that spring cleaning goes beyond our needs and includes our dog’s daily lives. As you begin your own spring cleaning plan, here are 10 dog-related tasks to consider.
Ventilate your dog’s bed.
After a winter of use, The dog’s bedding needs to be refreshed.
Read the manufacturer’s label to find out whether your bed can be washed; Many will have a zippered cover so you can wash them, but the bed itself may not be washable.
Clean the bed by drying it in the sun during the day.
Think about your spring grooming needs.
Spring is a busy time groomer as dog lovers try to enjoy shedding season. Book your appointment soon with your favorite groomer if grooming services are available in your area.
Hair removal tools It’s easy to use at home if you’re considering doing your own dog grooming service.
Check your fence.
If your winters are filled with snow, carefully inspect your yard fence.
Are all articles safe? Is there evidence of rot if the fence is wooden?
Walk along the perimeter and watch the fence for gaps – just like your dog would do.
Talk to your veterinarian.
Spring weather will mean fleas, ticks and mosquitoes are just a hop away. Talk to your veterinarian about the best options for your dog, his lifestyle, and your climate.
Clean and store your dog’s winter coats and sweaters.
Once the cold is over, wash your dog’s coats and sweaters before putting them away for the season. Make any necessary repairs at this time as well.
Check your dog food storage.
Warmer weather means all the bugs will be gone, so make sure you preserve dog food safe from insect infestation — and at the same time, protected from the warm weather ahead.
Garages, which may be suitable for storing food during the cold winter months, pose a potential problem during the summer when food can rot in the heat.
Deep cleans your pet’s faucet and bowl.
Now is the time to deep clean your dog’s faucet.
To remove hard water residue, run a vinegar and water solution through the fountain then scrub and rinse.
Reviews of all dog toys.
Round up your dog’s toy collection and consider each item carefully.
Are there any loose or torn parts that you need to patch? Do toys need cleaning?
Place all plush toys in pillowcases and wash and dry them in the sun – or pop them in the dryer (a great option if you’re worried about flea eggs – the heat will kill them .)
Hard toys such as interactive games can be hand-washed in a vinegar and water solution.
Collect items for donation.
Spring is the perfect time to collect products you no longer use and donate them to your local animal shelter.
Look for toys your dog no longer likes, beds he has outgrown, and extra bowls.
Clean with pet-friendly solutions.
When you start deep cleaning your entire house, be sure to choose a cleaner that’s appropriate for your pet.
Simple, environmentally friendly products such as Vinegar and baking soda is a great cleaner that isn’t dangerous for your dog.
Spring cleaning for households with pets is about more than just creating a spotless home – it also means creating a home that loves Spot!
Paris Permenter is the award-winning co-author, with John Bigley, of more than 30 pet and travel books, including The Healthy Hound Cookbook and Texas with Dogs, both available from Simon and Schuster. Paris is also a member of the American Dog Writers Association.
