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Cleaning tips for when a pet joins the household
If you've been thinking about adopting a dog, there's never been a better time. Animal shelters in many parts of the country are overcrowded because the economic downturn has caused a matching decline in pet adoptions. To help find new homes for human's best friend, the ASPCA has designated October as Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month.
Housebreaking a puppy requires patience. The ASPCA recommends employing the three C's: Consistency – a regular schedule of walking and feeding; Confinement – in a crate if necessary, to build bladder and bowel control; and Cleaning – clean up accidents promptly and then treat the spot with an odor neutralizer.
Bringing a new pet into your household presents some additional cleaning challenges, says Nancy Bock, Vice President of Education at The Soap and Detergent Association, particularly if there are family members who suffer from asthma or allergies.
- Vacuum regularly to keep up with the pet hair. An upright vacuum or a canister style with a nozzle will pick up two to six times as much dust from a rug as canisters without a power nozzle. Be sure to move the pet to another space when you vacuum; otherwise, the noise may upset him.
- Brush the dog frequently. If possible, do it outside, away from those with allergies. When you're finished, wash your hands with soap and water.
- Pet-proof the environment. Tuck electrical cords out of the way. Install safety latches in lower kitchen cabinets. Don't leave small items around that might be mistaken for chew toys. And don't leave any type of cleaning liquid out where pets might be tempted to take a drink.
- Wash food dishes daily. Otherwise, they can be a magnet for ants and other crawly critters.
- Choose a pet bed with washable, removable cushion covers to make cleaning easier.
- Put a washable blanket or throw over your pet's favorite chair or corner of the sofa. Have multiple covers so that one is available while the other is in the wash.
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