As we transition into warmer months, a good spring cleaning is on the list for many of our houses. But that spring cleaning extends far beyond our own needs and includes our dog’s daily lives as well. When you begin your own spring cleaning plans, here are 10 dog-related tasks to consider.
Air Out the Dog Beds.
After a winter of use, your dog’s bedding needs some freshening.
Read the manufacturer’s label to see if you can wash your bed; many will have zip-off covers that you can launder but the bed itself may not be washable.
Sanitize the bed by putting it in the sunshine for the day.
Think of Spring Grooming Needs.
Spring is a busy time for groomers as dog lovers try to get a jump on shedding season. Book a session with your favorite groomer early, if grooming services are currently available in your area.
Deshedding tools are easy to use at home, if you’re considering some DIY dog grooming.
Check Your Fence.
If your winter was filled with snow drifts, do a good check of your yard’s fence.
Are all the posts secure? Is there evidence of rot if the fence is wooden?
Walk the perimeter and eye that fence for gaps – just like your dog will.
Talk with Your Veterinarian.
Spring weather will mean fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are just a hop and a jump away. Talk with 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 chill is gone, clean your dog’s coats and sweaters before packing them away for the season. Make any needed repairs at this time as well.
Check Your Dog Food Storage.
Warmer weather will mean that all bugs will be out in force so make sure your dog food storage is safe from insect infestation—and, at the same time, protected from the upcoming warm weather.
Garages, which may be fine for food storage during the cold winter months, present a potential problem during the summer when food can become rancid due to the heat.
Deep Clean Your Pet Fountains and Bowls.
Now’s the time for a deep cleaning of your dog’s water fountain.
To remove hard water deposits, run a vinegar and water solution through the fountain then scrub and rinse.
Evaluate All Dog Toys.
Roundup your dog’s collection of toys and eye each one carefully.
Are there any loose parts or tears you should mend? Do the toys need cleaning?
Put all plush toys in a pillowcase and launder them then hang them out in the sun to dry–or run them through the dryer (a great option if you’re concerned about flea eggs–the heat will kill them.)
Hard toys like interactive games can be hand washed in a solution of vinegar and water.
Gather Items for Donations.
Spring is the perfect time to gather those products that you’re no longer using and donate them to your local animal shelter.
Look for toys your dog no longer likes, beds he’s outgrown, and excess bowls.
Clean with Pet-Friendly Solutions.
As you start your own deep cleaning of the whole house, be sure to choose cleansers with an eye on your pets.
Simple, eco-friendly products like vinegar and baking soda make great cleansers that won’t be dangerous to your dog.
Spring cleaning for pet households is far more than creating a spotless house – it also means creating a Spot-loving home!
Paris Permenter is the award-winning co-author, with John Bigley, of over 30 pet and travel books including The Healthy Hound Cookbook and Texas with Dogs, both available through Simon and Schuster. Paris is also a member of the Dog Writers Association of America.
