Tips for Cleaning Dog Beds

The post Tips for Cleaning Dog Beds by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Regularly washing bedding will keep your pet happy and your home safe from contaminants.

Dog beds are repositories for filth, allergens, and pests

As we know, most dogs are not so delicate or discriminating as we are about how they interact with the world. They are adventurous and curious animals who will step anywhere and stick their noses in anything. Shake as much as they will before entering the house, dogs also unwittingly track in dirt on their paws and unknowingly invite insects and allergens in their hair or on their skin. Bathing your dog is all good and well, but they spend a great deal of time in their various beds and nesting spots where the things they bring in can stay behind. You don’t have to let them linger! Whether your dog sleeps inside or outside, it’s important to know how to clean a dog bed as well.

When you choose a dog bed, choose wisely

How to wash a dog bed should be a primary consideration when you are selecting from the range of commercially available dog beds at your local pet or department store. Check the tags on dog beds to see whether the recommended method of cleaning is feasible and practical for you, your home, and the time you have for cleaning. All too often, people buy a dog bed on impulse because it is cute or it fits with their home decor. When the dog urinates all over it a few nights later, they find, to their cost, that the bed itself or the insert is soaked and is either not compatible with their washing machine or not recommended for their dryer.

There are, naturally, as many different kinds of dog beds as there are different kinds of dogs. My own dog sleeps outside, and, depending on the time of year, has between one and three quilts that she carefully arranges each night to nestle among. No matter what kind of bedding your dog uses, if you are time-conscious and prefer to machine wash, it is critical to select an appropriate disinfectant solution or detergent.

Once a month or so, I will put each quilt into the washing machine and then into the dryer, making sure to use detergent that is dog-friendly. After all, without opposable thumbs, Tina drags her quilts around in her mouth, and many cleaning products may contain chemicals harmful to her. In the brighter and warmer months, I’ll wash and then air-dry them. Ventilation and sun exposure are key for air-drying.

You keep your bed clean, do the same for your dog!

Techniques for how to wash a dog bed are as varied as the bedding materials themselves. The process of cleaning a dog bed can be as simple or as time-consuming as you want it to be. If the bed is a one-piece item and is too large for machine washing, take care to vacuum it first, then go over it with a lint roller or duct tape, particularly on the areas the dog has most frequent contact with. This will remove as much hair and as many particulates, dander, allergens, and potential insect eggs as possible before washing. Wash it thoroughly in hot water with a dog-safe detergent or disinfectant solution before airing it dry.

Beds with outer zip covers and foam inserts present their own challenges. If you select a dog bed with an outer cover, you may want to enclose the insert, particularly if it is foam, in a bin-liner or large trash bag to prevent outside agents or stray urine from reaching the insert in the first place.

If you’re not so fastidious, machine wash and dry the cover once a month, and vacuum it between washings. Soak and rinse foam inserts in your bathtub or shower in hot or warm water and allow it to completely air dry before restoring the cover. Ring out foam inserts many times before drying to ensure that mold and mildew do not take root.

How do you clean your dog’s bed?

Since dogs have a number of bedding options, we ask you, the Dogster faithful, to share your techniques for washing, cleaning, and maintaining a dog’s bed! What kinds of beds do your dogs use? What kinds are the easiest to clean? What are your approaches and methods? What are your favored cleaning products? Let us know in the comments!

Learn more about dogs with Dogster:

• The 10 Naughtiest Dog Breeds
• The World’s Most Popular Dog Names for 2013
• 5 Myths About Dog Behavior That Often Lead to Tragedy

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5 Tips to Keep Your Dog From Distracting You When You’re Working From Home

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The coronavirus pandemic has given your dog a great gift: Their most favorite person in the whole world has to work from home. It’s an exciting time for dogs everywhere, but it can be stressful for dog owners working remotely for the first time.

It takes self-discipline and motivation to work from home, especially when you have an adorable dog begging for attention, treats, walks and cuddles. The puppy dog eyes, impatient pacing and frustrated whines can make you feel guilty and distract you from your work.

How do you establish a work-from-home routine that works for you and for your pup? Here are a few tips:

Photo: hobo_018/ Getty Images

Give your dog plenty of exercise before you start working. This can be long walks (of course, when taking your pup for a walk, practice responsible social distancing), vigorous games of fetch in the backyard or whatever physical activity your dog loves. Exercise helps dogs release pent-up energy and tires them out, so when it’s time for you to work, they’ll be ready for a nap. A tired dog is a good dog.

Related: How Dog Owners Should Prepare for the Coronavirus

Regular breaks are great for you and your pup. Have a tug of war, snuggle or take a short nap. Your dog will feel the love, and research has shown that taking breaks from work every 75 to 90 minutes increases productivity.

Have a treat-dispensing toy ready to go. If your dog is whining and giving you that “I need attention or I’ll die” look, it’s time to break out the treat toy. Treat toys make great long-lasting distractions when filled with peanut butter or your dog’s favorite treats. There are also puzzle toys that make your dog work hard for their treats. A mostly empty jar of peanut butter also works well if you don’t have a toy like this on hand.

Treats provide mental stimulation when your dog has to work for them, and this gives you some peace and quiet so you can get your work done. (Don’t use treat toys if you have multiple dogs and one of them is a resource guarder.)

Calming dog music. This one might sound a little far-fetched (sorry, can’t pass up a dog pun!), but calming music is part of a science-backed principle called “environmental enrichment” that helps reduce stress in animals.

There are many YouTube videos, CDs, DVDs and even DogTV with music specifically chosen to help your good boy or girl relax. Find one that looks good, hit “play,” and your pup may settle down in no time.

Try CBD oil. This may help if all the above options fall short. Some dogs have anxiety that exercise, mental stimulation and treats don’t cure. CBD oil is a nonpsychoactive chemical (i.e., it won’t get your dog “high”) found in cannabis.

Studies have shown CBD oil is effective for a variety of issues, including anxiety and pain. Your dog will feel better, and you’ll be able to get back to work. Talk to your veterinarian about CBD oil if you want to give this option a try. There are many different CBD products and you should research them first.

RedRover has created a COVID-19 resource list for pets owners who may need assistance or guidance during this crisis: https://redrover.org/news/coronavirus.

Top photograph: sturti/Getty Images

Read Next: Teach Your Dog a New Trick While You’re Stuck At Home

 

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4 Books for Dog Lovers to Read While Self-Isolating

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Raise your hand if you’re spending a lot of time reading at home these days. Us too. Here are some books for dog lovers to read while self-isolating. We hope you enjoy.

Incredibull Stella

It was love at first sight when Marika Meeks met Stella, an adorable Pit Bull puppy who had been abandoned in a cold field in winter. But Marika wasn’t sure she was ready to adopt a dog. A busy entrepreneur, wife and mother of two daughters, Marika was recovering from Stage 3 breast cancer. But she couldn’t deny the way Stella made her feel. So, in a leap of faith, the family welcomed Stella into their home. Her energy, enthusiasm and endless cuddles transformed their lives. As Marika witnessed the impact Stella had, she decided to share her with the world, launching Stella’s Instagram page in 2017. Within nine months, Stella had more than 25,000 followers. Now cancer-free, Marika (along with Stella) dedicates herself to educating people on the powerful force pets can play in our lives, advocating for Pit Bull breed awareness and supporting rescue and adoption shelters that save animals’ lives. Written with co-author Elizabeth Ridley, this book reminds us that unconditional love can truly be life
saving. Published by Kensington Books.

A Dog’s Promise

Continuing the story of Bailey, whose journey started in A Dog’s Purpose and continued in A Dog’s Journey, this new book by W. Bruce Cameron introduces Lacey, another special dog who helps Bailey fulfill his promise throughout several lives. This time, there is one particular family that needs Bailey’s help — one that’s on the verge of breaking apart, and he brings his usual comfort, joy and laughter as he tries to unite them. The love and loyalty of these two dogs proves the incredible power of hope, truth and unending devotion. If you’re a fan of the first two books, you’ll love this third installment of Bailey’s heartwarming adventures and understand the belief that our beloved pets are sent to us for a reason. Published by Forge Books.

Rescue Dogs

Too many people think that rescue dogs have irredeemable problems, like anxiety, aggression and other behavior issues. But really, rescue dogs can — and do — become wonderful companions. Written by undercover animal investigator Pete Paxton with Gene Stone, this book helps readers understand these dogs’ uniqueness — how they think, learn and love, while offering tips for finding, caring for and adjusting to life with a rescue dog. Paxton also shares stories of eight individual dogs that have impacted and inspired his experience as a rescuer, including: Violet, who was once a medical school laboratory test subject and now has a loving, forever home; and Georgia, a three-legged dog who was rescued from a shelter and is now the most popular dog in her neighborhood. These stories will inspire readers to think more about the opportunity we all have to make a difference, whether we adopt, foster or simply give a second look to a special shelter dog. Published by TarcherPerigee, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

Doctor Dogs

Go behind the scenes of cutting-edge research at top research centers and into the lives of people who depend on their devoted and highly skilled personal MDs (medical dogs). Bestselling author Maria Goodavage takes readers on both a thrilling and delightful journey around the globe to discover the fascinating new world of doctor dogs. You’ll meet dogs who detect cancer and Parkinson’s disease; dogs who alert people to seizures and diabetic highs or lows; dogs who help those with autism, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder. You’ll also meet intrepid canines who protect us from antibiotic-resistant bugs and dogs who might one day help keep us safe from epidemics. The book packs both a scientific and emotional punch — you’ll immediately be inspired by what these dogs are doing and what we are learning from them. Published by Dutton, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

Top Photograph: Georgijevic/Getty Images

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The Life of a Dog Actor

The post The Life of a Dog Actor by Wendy Newell appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The infamous saying, “Never work with animals or children,” was first spoken by W.C. Fields as a tip for those humans being forced to share the stage and screen. It is often still muttered by cast or crew members when one or the other shows up on set. And that means Briana Messerschmidt, community outreach director of Hollywood Paws hears it a lot!

Hollywood Paws is a Los Angeles-based company that helps dogs (and their humans) in almost every aspect of becoming an animal actor or model — careers that have a shared skillset. “In people world it’s different, but in dog world it’s the exact same thing,” Briana explains.

Briana started working at Hollywood Paws around 10 years ago. Before that, she went to a specialized school to learn how to train animals. She is also an associate marriage and family therapist with skills that, no doubt, help when faced with someone quoting Mr. Fields!

The first dog actor Briana Messerschmidt, community outreach director of Hollywood Paws, owned was Belgian Malinois Lilu. Photography courtesy of Briana Messerschmidt

Lilu the Belgian Malinois

The first four-legged actor Briana owned was Lilu, a brilliant Belgian Malinois. In general, the industry is vain, Briana explains, which means Lilu didn’t have the same opportunities as other breeds would. “Cute,” “sweet,” “family dogs,” are who usually book the jobs. In advertisements, casting is looking for a dog who will catch your attention and then will pass the spotlight to the product being featured. Dogs like Lilu, who tend to be associated with police or military working dogs, just don’t fit that description.

Even with industry bias against her, Lilu booked a number of jobs due to her impressive training. In 2013, Lilu showed off her skills on the set of Guinness World Records Unleashed by removing 20 people’s socks in one minute. She could have done more, but there weren’t any socked feet left on stage. Later in the same year, she went on the TV show Katie and set the record for the most shoes removed in one minute. Both records still stand.

Today Briana works with her Golden Retriever, Coral, who has already been featured in an ad. Photography courtesy of Briana Messerschmidt

Coral hits the big time

When Lilu went to live with her human dad full time, it took a while before Briana was ready for another furry family member. When she was, she opted for a breed that has the best chance of booking work — a Golden Retriever. “The dog everyone wants … the iconic family dog with an easy temperament that everyone wants to put in their ad.”

Enter to the stage, Coral. Coral is a year old, and her doggie resume is already filling up.

“As a trainer I can’t help myself to train sometimes. It just comes naturally,” Briana explains. In her trainer role, Briana tells future actor dogs’ owners to not worry about getting any gigs until the dog is at least 8 months old. For those first eight months it’s key to world isn’t a scary place is key to them succeeding in the business.

For “training” as a puppy, Coral was taken out every day and everywhere, including active sets where her mom was working with clients. Then Coral got lucky. Whistle contacted the agency looking for a Golden Retriever puppy. At that point Coral, who was around 4½ months old, hadn’t done much specific training, but she was confident and that’s what she needed to do the job. Just like that, Coral became one of the dogs featured on Whistle’s website.

Coral knew the basics the director was looking for. “That’s all they ever really want on set — a dog being a dog, but they want specific things they do on cue.” Basics include “sit,” “down,” “on your feet,” “circle,” “on your side,” “barking,” “taking a bow,” “head up” and “head down,” which later in the dog’s training include focusing on the end of a stick called an aim stick, which allows the trainer to get higher ups and focus off herself.

What makes the basics more difficult is the dog’s ability to do it a good distance from the trainer and with a high level of distraction. A dog can be in a scene while her trainer is 8 feet or more away, often behind the camera and surrounded by other humans where she is expected to perform on cue while other actors and crew members are working around her.

Photography courtesy of Briana Messerschmidt

Since her first job, Coral has learned to hit her mark. For dogs, a mark is usually a physical thing that she knows she has to go to, stop and perform on. Briana has added “watch me” and “watch it,” and she can place food in the scene and Coral will sit on her mark and stare at the food — without
eating it!

One day she will be as good as her sister Lilu and be able to perform all of her skills while focused on something, like delicious food. Her self-control even includes being able to hold something in her mouth and dropping it on cue — again, without eating it!

For Coral, her acting work is a fun game where she is rewarded with love, praise, treats and the spotlight. I bet even Mr. Fields would think more like Emma Thompson if he had had the pleasure of working with Lilu or Coral. Thompson edited the comedian’s quote by saying, “There is that thing about not working with animals and children — I don’t think that’s true. Although you should never work with donkeys.

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How to Renovate — The Pet -Friendly Way

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Maybe you’ve decided on spring to do some home renovations, not just cleaning. Experts have a bevy of tips to make your house look fabulous and keep Fifi safe.

Protectors

Even if you’re in the market for a quick refresh instead of a remodel, there are purchases that are more pup-friendly. “There are so many cost-effective ways to protect the home and furniture nowadays,” says Samantha Hull, a professional groomer and program manager for the Animal Behavior College’s Grooming Instruction Program in Valencia, California. “For example, you can purchase a fitted pet-proof cover for your couches that can easily be cleaned in a washer or even stain-proof rugs and carpets for large areas.”

Floors

“It is important to look for pet-friendly materials,” advises Melissa Gulbranson, vice president of marketing for Oxyfresh, based in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. “There are amazing floorings available that can withstand the claws of a fetching dog. They are also nontoxic, so they don’t emit chemicals that can be harmful to pets.”
Sandy Robins, award-winning author and pet lifestyle expert based in Southern California, says, “Apart from real wood, there are many options such as wood laminates. Be sure you choose a quality option that is scratch-resistant. Big dogs running around can really make their mark!”

Laura Pakis, CPT, blogger and owner and founder of Acme Canine, in Columbus, Ohio, adds, “For easy cleanup of hair or dog excrement, consider cork, bamboo or vinyl. They are durable and look great year after year.” She points out issues specific to carpets. “Dogs can easily snag and cause Berber carpet to run. Carpet also harbors odors and stains that slowly build up over time, eventually causing your carpet to look and smell bad.”

Walls and windows

“Fumes created by solvents in paint can irritate your dog’s respiratory tract as well as his eyes and stomach,” Laura says. “Even if you are using low-emission paint, it’s best to keep your dog out of the room while painting and also while the paint is drying. As far as paint is concerned, consider semi-gloss, eggshell or satin over flat finish. They will be easier to clean and look good.”

According to the ASPCA website, “Many pet parents welcome the breezy days of spring by opening their windows. Unfortunately, they also unknowingly put their pets at risk. Be sure to install snug and sturdy screens in all of your windows.”

Furniture

If you want a new look on a smaller budget, give your couch a makeover. “When reupholstering furniture, look for tight-weave fabrics such as canvas, denim and synthetic microfiber,” Laura suggests.

If you’ve been planning for a new sofa in the spring, another easy-to-clean option is leather. You can still use a blanket for your dog to keep the couch fresher longer.

Renovators beware: The ASPCA website also cautions pet parents to be aware of renovation tools left on the floor — including nails, staples, insulation, blades and power tools — and their physical hazards. It’s wise to confine your dog to a designated pet-friendly room during home improvement projects.

Read Next: A Spring Cleaning Task List for Dog Owners

Top photography: Astakhova | Getty Image

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Teach Your Dog a New Trick While You’re Stuck At Home

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Social distancing in response to the coronavirus for most of us means a whole lot more time at home. While you might miss getting out and about, your dog is probably thrilled to spend more time with you! Social distancing isn’t easy but you can use this time to teach your dogs some new tricks and, if you’re someone who likes to use humor to lighten the mood, you can even give the tricks pandemic themed names or cues.

Related: How Dog Owners Should Prepare for the Coronavirus

For these tricks you don’t need any fancy props. All you need is your dog and some training treats!

Photograph: Photodisc/ Getty Images

How to teach your dog the Spin trick: 

Feeling a little trapped in your house? Teach your dog to spin in circles.

1. Have treats in both hands
2. Show your dog the treat in one hand. Then put your dog’s nose on the treat and use it to lure your dog in a wide circle. When she makes a full circle, praise and give your dog the treat.
3. As your dog follows the lure around start adding in the verbal cue — you can use “spin” or you can introduce a pandemic themed cue like “panic.”
4. Dogs tend to pick up on this trick quickly. Once your dog is spinning following the treat start to phase out the treat lure and transition just to a verbal cue or a smaller physical cue like spinning your hand in a circle.

Once your dog is confident with this trick use the same tips for teaching your dog to spin in the other direction. Start slowly adding distance between you and your spinning dog to finish the trick.

Photograph: Jevtic/Getty Images

Teach your dog to High Five

With social distancing, we aren’t supposed to be shaking hands or having close physical contact with people, but we don’t have to social distance from our dogs! To teach your dog to high five, first, have treats that your dog is really excited about ready. Have your dog in a sit or a stand in front of you then:

1. Put a treat in one hand, close your hand into a fist and hold your hand out to your dog
2. In an attempt to get to the treat your dog will eventually start to paw your hand. Praise, and open your hand to give your dog the treat.
3. Repeat several times. Your dog will start to paw at your hand more quickly after figuring out this is how to get the treats.
4. When your dog is constantly pawing at your closed fist, start to add in your verbal cue of choice — “high five” or anything you prefer — as you hold your hand up.
5. After several repetitions with holding up your hand with the verbal cue and with your dog consistent, hold up your fist but this time without a treat in it. Cue your dog to give you five, then praise and treat your dog when he does so.
6. When your dog is consistently high fiving your closed fist without a treat in it, hold out your hand flat to your dog as though you were giving a high five to a person. Give your verbal cue for high five and when your dog’s paw touches your hand, then praise and treat!

Teach your dog to Make A Wish

I think all of us are wishing for the world to get back to normal soon and now you can teach your dog to wish for it! For this trick your dog will be standing on her hind legs, putting her front paws up on your arm and bowing or dipping her — head under to make it look like she is wishing (or praying).

1. If your dog already knows “paws up,” which is putting two paws on an object, cue that. Or, if your dog doesn’t know that trick, lure your dog with a treat to put her paws onto your outstretched arm.
2. When your dog has both paws up on your arm, use a treat in the other hand under your arm and between your dog’s front legs.
3. As your dog’s nose goes between her front legs and below your arm, praise and treat while in that position.
4. As you practice, start to add in the verbal cue of your choice. “Make a wish” and  “prayers” are common choices, but you can use any cue — “quarantine” feels appropriate!
5. As your dog becomes more experienced, start to phase out having the treat luring your dog’s head down and just treat after the trick!

Take your dog tricks to the next level

Having fun teaching your dog tricks? Do More With Your Dog (domorewithyourdog.com) is the oldest trick titling organization. Your dog can earn trick titles (complete with ribbons and certificates) from the safety and comfort of your home by submitting videos. The titles are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)!

Visit the website to learn more about the titling program and how to get your dog involved.

Read Next: Wondering How to Teach a Dog Tricks? Our Step-by-Step Guides

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A Spring Cleaning Task List for Dog Owners

The post A Spring Cleaning Task List for Dog Owners by Elizabeth Anderson Lopez appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Ahh … that time of year when the sun stays out longer and your gardens bloom stronger. When winter
transitions to spring, many people start some significant cleaning projects. Don’t leave your dog out of this ritual. Your dog’s dishes, toys, bedding — and even your dog herself — can benefit from a spring-cleaning overhaul. Here’s how to get started.

Photo: ©Srdjanns74 | Getty Image

Dog grooming must-dos

Create a grooming schedule and stick to it. “It is also very important to have dogs who are more likely to retain moisture/skin yeast, such as Cocker Spaniels and Bulldogs, start a routine bathing/haircut schedule during this time,” advises Samantha Hull, a professional groomer and program manager for the Animal Behavior College’s Grooming Instruction Program in Valencia, California.

Photo: ©FreshSplash | Getty Image

Get grooming supplies specific for your dog.

“Spring is the seasonal shedding season. And all dogs shed their winter fur irrespective of coat length and texture,” says Sandy Robins, award-winning author and pet lifestyle expert based in Southern California. “This means different dogs have different shedding patterns. So one grooming plan doesn’t fit all. However, consider a spa day for your dog that includes a good brushing and a bath, and then another brushing with a tool such as a rubber curry brush — with big rubber teeth. It’s inexpensive but very effective, and most dogs love the gentle massage it gives. Different coats may require different tools, too, such as slicker brushes, combs and fine-tooth de-shedding tools and rakes. Plus, invest in a good shampoo and conditioner.”

If this seems overwhelming, don’t feel guilty if you need some help getting started. “Depending on your pooch’s coat type, it may be a good idea to have your dog groomed professionally to get rid of the winter hair,” Sandy says. “Then it’s easier to maintain and manage at home.”

Photo: ©M_a_y_a | Getty Images

Keep dogs well-brushed.

Not surprisingly, some dogs need a bit of extra care based on coat or breed. “We change our wardrobe when the seasons change; dogs change their coat,” explains Jorge Bendersky, Manhattan-based groomer and author of DIY Dog Grooming: From Puppy Cuts To Best In Show, Everything You Need To Know. “Dogs with a double coat will start shedding the dense winter undercoat for a fluffier and lighter undercoat that will allow more air to circulate, protecting the body from overheating. That’s why it is so important to keep dogs well-brushed.”

Photo: ©Michael Burrell | Getty Images

Don’t bring the outside inside.

Then there’s the type of grooming required because of more time spent outdoors. “Taking a nice long walk on a spring day is a healthy habit for pets and humans,” Jorge points out. “But bringing all those allergens into the house can be counterproductive. Cuddling with your dog after a walk is cuddling with a furball full of pollen. Wiping your dog with a damp washcloth or dog-friendly wipes is a good way to remove pollen and dust.”

And don’t stop at the coat. Jorge reminds owners that new plant growth in the spring can mean debris that can get stuck in your dog’s feet. “Checking them after your walk during the wipe-down process is a good routine to prevent any problems. Remember that most dogs only sweat through their pads and tongue, so keeping them clean is key for their heath.”

Worse yet are those little bloodsuckers. “The biggest thing I stress to clients during springtime is how imperative it is to check your pups for fleas and ticks,” Samantha says. “While preventives will stop your pup from an infestation, they can easily still be brought in and begin thriving on indoor pets, furniture or carpets.”

Photo: ©smrm1977 | Getty Images

Clean those ears.

Ears also warrant some extra care. “Ear infections are becoming more and more common, and the transition to spring can cause ear problems,” says Melissa Gulbranson, vice president of marketing for Oxyfresh based in Idaho, which makes an ear cleaner for dogs. “We always recommend using an alcohol-free, sting-free, non-oil based solution to help soothe and clean ears, especially since dust mites seem to multiply as seasons change.”

Update your dog’s ID.

One last note about your dog and more outside time. The ASPCA’s website has this reminder:
“Warmer weather means more trips to the park, longer walks and more chances for your pet to wander off! Make sure your dog or cat has a micro-chip for identification and wears a tag imprinted with your home address and any other relevant contact information.”

Photo: ©Nastco | Getty Images

How to clean your dog’s stuff

When you start spring cleaning, set aside a few hours to focus on the items your dog uses daily.

Start with cleaning beds and toys.

“Winter time is tough on these items, and they probably have the smells to prove it,” Melissa says. “Use a nontoxic pet deodorizer to spray down dog beds and give them a fresh new smell. You can also use a nontoxic pet shampoo to wash bedding and toys. Stay clear of what we use for human clothes. The detergents are typically a bit too harsh for a pet’s sensitive skin.”

Samantha adds, “I always recommend to my clients that while their pups are with me, go home and clean their bedding, collars and doggie clothes that are used on them often. This includes areas they frequent in the home (couches, carpets, etc.). This ensures that the bath lasts longer because they don’t return to a dirty bed.”

Clean bedding can also mean healthier bedding. “Washing bedding not only refreshes the fabrics and removes stubborn pet hair but also eradicates dust mites, a common household allergen causing allergic reactions in pets,” Sandy says. “These miniscule mites live on dead skin cells and other detritus in house dust. Most pet beds have removable covers that can be machine-washed. And they should be done regularly — not necessarily only at springtime. Consider using a detergent that is recommended for babies to ensure
that your pooch doesn’t have an allergic reaction to her clean bedding, too.”

How to deep clean your dog’s bowls.

While food and water bowls should also be cleaned regularly, this is a good time to give bowls a deep cleaning with a mild bleach solution or give them a ride in the dish washer. If your dog likes to chew on plastic bowls — perhaps to point out that you’re three minutes late feeding — it is the perfect time to replace them.

Photo: ©SolStock | Getty Images

Inspect everything.

This is also the time to determine if you agree with Brave New World’s mantra of “ending is better than mending.” Check out your dog’s bed, blankets and toys to see if they are torn or overly frayed, potentially causing a safety issue.

“If you are amongst the ranks of pet parents who have thicker bedding options for the cold winter months, inspect them to see whether they need be washed before being packed away or simply replaced,” Sandy recommends. “If the padded area is flat and not offering comfort and support, throw it away.”

If you do find yourself shopping for a new dog bed, consider a couple features. For example, Sandy recommends getting senior dogs a bed with bolsters for a comfy head rest. And you will probably appreciate the ability to toss a cover into the washer instead of a whole bed.

Speaking of washers, Laura Pakis, CPT, blogger and owner and founder of Acme Canine in Columbus, Ohio, points out, “Newer dryers have a sanitize cycle, which is great for dog beds.”

Experts give additional tips on when to toss your dog’s other items, including putting yourself in their paws. “My rule of thumb is to simply ask, would I want to use/wear this?” Samantha asks. “If a collar is shredded, has an odor or shows extreme discoloration, its time for a new one. Not only does the smell/dirt rub off on the pup, a ripped or weakened collar can pose a serious threat to your dog, as well. It may fall off in the event that your pup gets out or even get caught on something in the home.”

The first sign is always smell, Melissa says. “If it smells similar to mildew, absolutely replace it. Collars can harbor bacteria because they are woven very tight, and we recommend replacing it each year, as it can cause neck irritation and introduce bacteria to the ears.”

Finally, check to make sure toys continue to bring joy, not dread. If they pose hazards, that isn’t fun for anyone. “Pitch dog toys that have developed sharp edges or have worn down to the point they are too small for dogs to safely have in their mouths,” Laura recommends. “Remove all threads that may appear on the toys after use. Dogs can ingest these and have stomach issues. Same for the ‘stuffing’ in dog toys.”

These tips are designed to make cleaning a little easier on you — and your dog — once spring has sprung. And remember — you don’t have to finish in one day. But then, it is nice to get it over with and get out with your furry friend to enjoy the fine weather.

Top photograph: ©SolStock | Getty Images

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