Getting Your Pup All Cleaned Up With Spring Cleaning
Spring is here, which means it is time for some spring cleaning for you and your pup! While you create your list of items to clean and organize, keep in mind your dog’s collar, dog bed, and other everyday objects that could use a rinse, too. Below is a list of your dog’s favorite items and a rule of thumb for how often they should be cleaned and maintained:
Dog Bed
Dogs find comfort in a place they can relax and sleep. Let’s make sure your dog’s bed is clean so they can rest their head in a fresh spot. Cleaning your dog’s bed can prevent an unnecessary spread of germs and dirt. If you have a dog that loves playing outside, it is best to wash their bed once a week to ensure all dirt and allergens are removed. Have a dog that enjoys playing inside? It is still recommended to clean your dog’s bed once every two weeks to keep their bed clean. Germs and dirt brought inside can not only impact your dog but can also impact the health of pet parents and kids. Keeping a clean dog bed will help keep your family healthy!
Collar
Here is an easy way to remind yourself when to wash your dog’s collar: every time your dog is groomed or receives a bath at home, wash their collar. Once your dog’s collar is wet or dirty, it is in your and your dog’s best interest to clean their collar to prevent the spread of dirt, outdoor allergens, and germs. Collars can be cleaned with dog shampoo and warm water. Baking soda can also be used in moderation to neutralize odors. If you feel so inclined, use a toothbrush to scrub the collar to remove deep stains, dried dirt, and other hard-to-remove spots.
Collars can also be cleaned using a washing machine. The best way to do so is to put collars (and even standard leashes) into a garment bag with a little bit of baking soda. Toss the garment bag into the washing machine and run a normal cycle. Collars and leashes will come out clean and smelling fresh.
Leash
A general rule of thumb to maintain a clean leash is to cleanse once a month. Cleaning your dog’s leash will help to alleviate dirt, hair, or built-up germs. Place your dog’s leash in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes. Once complete, remove the leash from the water, rinse thoroughly, and hang to dry. Set a reminder each month to tackle this simple task. Dog Toys
Your dog’s favorite toys need bath time, too! It is recommended to wash your dog’s cloth or furry toys once every two weeks. Use a pet-friendly cleaning product or a ¼ cup of white vinegar, throw all your pup’s favorite toys in the washing machine and run a regular cycle. Hang dry or tumble dry on low to keep their toys intact and ready for play.
Water & Food Bowls
Like humans, dogs need clean dishware. Regularly cleaning food and water bowls will lessen the buildup of biofilm and pathogens which can make a dog sick. Food and water bowls should be washed after every meal or at least on a daily basis. Biofilm is the almost slimy material that builds up on the inside of your dog’s water bowl. Harmful bacteria may inhabit the biofilm, making it unclean and dangerous for your dog. Regular cleaning will eliminate the bacteria and biofilm buildup and keep your pup healthy by drinking from a fresh water bowl.
Grooming
A clean pup is a happy pup! Grooming frequency will depend on the texture and length of your dog’s coat. If your dog has curly, wavy, or thick hair, their coat will need more attention than a dog with short, thin hair. If your dog’s coat requires more attention, brushing their coat in between grooming appointments will alleviate matting and stress associated with grooming. Brush your dog’s coat 1-2 times per week. Most dogs need to be groomed once a month.
Nail Trim
Nail trims provide a variety of benefits to your dog. Not only do they keep your dog walking comfortably, but they also prevent unnecessary vet visits. If your dog’s nails grow too long, they may bother your dog when they walk, run, or play. It is important to keep their nails trimmed to a point where your pup will not feel them bumping the floor. Additionally, if your dog’s nails grow too long, there runs a greater risk of catching their nails on the carpet, rug, blankets, and other objects. This may result in an injury or a vert visit. To prevent uncomfortable walking and to keep your dog safe, maintain your dog’s nail trimmings during regularly scheduled grooming appointments or as needed to keep your dog’s nails off the ground when standing.
A happy pup is good, but a happy and healthy pup is even better. Keeping these tips in mind will have your pup feeling good and looking good, too. If you are interested in having your dog groomed during a day of play at Dogtopia daycare, ask about grooming services upon drop off. Our team would love to freshen up your pup to help keep them happy and healthy. Find a Dogtopia daycare near you by clicking here.
