Ahh \u2026 that time of year when the sun stays out longer and your gardens bloom stronger. When winter
\ntransitions to spring, many people start some significant cleaning projects. Don\u2019t leave your dog out of this ritual. Your dog\u2019s dishes, toys, bedding \u2014 and even your dog herself \u2014 can benefit from a spring-cleaning overhaul. Here\u2019s how to get started.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/2004-PinkTowel_getty1047164204.png\")
<\/p>\nPhoto: \u00a9Srdjanns74 | Getty Image<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Dog grooming must-dos<\/h2>\n
Create a grooming schedule and stick to it. \u201cIt 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,\u201d advises Samantha Hull, a professional groomer and program manager for the Animal Behavior College<\/a>\u2019s Grooming Instruction Program in Valencia, California.<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9FreshSplash | Getty Image<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u201cSpring is the seasonal shedding season. And all dogs shed their winter fur irrespective of coat length and texture,\u201d says Sandy Robins<\/a>, award-winning author and pet lifestyle expert based in Southern California. \u201cThis means different dogs have different shedding patterns. So one grooming plan doesn\u2019t 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 \u2014 with big rubber teeth. It\u2019s 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.\u201d<\/p>\n If this seems overwhelming, don\u2019t feel guilty if you need some help getting started. \u201cDepending on your pooch\u2019s coat type, it may be a good idea to have your dog groomed professionally to get rid of the winter hair,\u201d Sandy says. \u201cThen it\u2019s easier to maintain and manage at home.\u201d<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9M_a_y_a | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Not surprisingly, some dogs need a bit of extra care based on coat or breed. \u201cWe change our wardrobe when the seasons change; dogs change their coat,\u201d explains Jorge Bendersky<\/a>, Manhattan-based groomer and author of DIY Dog Grooming: From Puppy Cuts To Best In Show, Everything You Need To Know<\/em>. \u201cDogs 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\u2019s why it is so important to keep dogs well-brushed.\u201d<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9Michael Burrell | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Then there\u2019s the type of grooming required because of more time spent outdoors. \u201cTaking a nice long walk on a spring day is a healthy habit for pets and humans,\u201d Jorge points out. \u201cBut 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.\u201d<\/p>\n And don\u2019t stop at the coat. Jorge reminds owners that new plant growth in the spring can mean debris that can get stuck in your dog\u2019s feet. \u201cChecking 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.\u201d<\/p>\n Worse yet are those little bloodsuckers. \u201cThe biggest thing I stress to clients during springtime is how imperative it is to check your pups for fleas and ticks,\u201d Samantha says. \u201cWhile preventives will stop your pup from an infestation, they can easily still be brought in and begin thriving on indoor pets, furniture or carpets.\u201d<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9smrm1977 | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Ears also warrant some extra care. \u201cEar infections are becoming more and more common, and the transition to spring can cause ear problems,\u201d says Melissa Gulbranson, vice president of marketing for Oxyfresh<\/a> based in Idaho, which makes an ear cleaner for dogs. \u201cWe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n One last note about your dog and more outside time. The ASPCA\u2019s website<\/a> has this reminder: Photo: \u00a9Nastco | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n When you start spring cleaning, set aside a few hours to focus on the items your dog uses daily.<\/p>\n \u201cWinter time is tough on these items, and they probably have the smells to prove it,\u201d Melissa says. \u201cUse 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\u2019s sensitive skin.\u201d<\/p>\n Samantha adds, \u201cI 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\u2019t return to a dirty bed.\u201d<\/p>\n Clean bedding can also mean healthier bedding. \u201cWashing 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,\u201d Sandy says. \u201cThese 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 \u2014 not necessarily only at springtime. Consider using a detergent that is recommended for babies to ensure 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 \u2014 perhaps to point out that you\u2019re three minutes late feeding \u2014 it is the perfect time to replace them.<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9SolStock | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n This is also the time to determine if you agree with Brave New World\u2019s mantra of \u201cending is better than mending.\u201d Check out your dog\u2019s bed, blankets and toys to see if they are torn or overly frayed, potentially causing a safety issue.<\/p>\n \u201cIf 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,\u201d Sandy recommends. \u201cIf the padded area is flat and not offering comfort and support, throw it away.\u201d<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Speaking of washers, Laura Pakis, CPT, blogger and owner and founder of Acme Canine<\/a> in Columbus, Ohio, points out, \u201cNewer dryers have a sanitize cycle, which is great for dog beds.\u201d<\/p>\n Experts give additional tips on when to toss your dog\u2019s other items, including putting yourself in their paws. \u201cMy rule of thumb is to simply ask, would I want to use\/wear this?\u201d Samantha asks. \u201cIf 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.\u201d<\/p>\n The first sign is always smell, Melissa says. \u201cIf 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.\u201d<\/p>\n Finally, check to make sure toys continue to bring joy, not dread. If they pose hazards, that isn\u2019t fun for anyone. \u201cPitch 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,\u201d Laura recommends. \u201cRemove all threads that may appear on the toys after use. Dogs can ingest these and have stomach issues. Same for the \u2018stuffing\u2019 in dog toys.\u201d<\/p>\n These tips are designed to make cleaning a little easier on you \u2014 and your dog \u2014 once spring has sprung. And remember \u2014 you don\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n Top photograph: \u00a9SolStock | Getty Images<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n The post A Spring Cleaning Task List for Dog Owners<\/a> by Elizabeth Anderson Lopez<\/a> appeared first on Dogster<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n \n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<\/p>\n The post A Spring Cleaning Task List for Dog Owners<\/a> by Elizabeth Anderson Lopez<\/a> appeared first on Dogster<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n Ahh \u2026 that time of year when the sun stays out longer and your gardens bloom stronger. When winter Photo: \u00a9Srdjanns74 | Getty Image<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Create a grooming schedule and stick to it. \u201cIt 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,\u201d advises Samantha Hull, a professional groomer and program manager for the Animal Behavior College<\/a>\u2019s Grooming Instruction Program in Valencia, California.<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9FreshSplash | Getty Image<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u201cSpring is the seasonal shedding season. And all dogs shed their winter fur irrespective of coat length and texture,\u201d says Sandy Robins<\/a>, award-winning author and pet lifestyle expert based in Southern California. \u201cThis means different dogs have different shedding patterns. So one grooming plan doesn\u2019t 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 \u2014 with big rubber teeth. It\u2019s 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.\u201d<\/p>\n If this seems overwhelming, don\u2019t feel guilty if you need some help getting started. \u201cDepending on your pooch\u2019s coat type, it may be a good idea to have your dog groomed professionally to get rid of the winter hair,\u201d Sandy says. \u201cThen it\u2019s easier to maintain and manage at home.\u201d<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9M_a_y_a | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Not surprisingly, some dogs need a bit of extra care based on coat or breed. \u201cWe change our wardrobe when the seasons change; dogs change their coat,\u201d explains Jorge Bendersky<\/a>, Manhattan-based groomer and author of DIY Dog Grooming: From Puppy Cuts To Best In Show, Everything You Need To Know<\/em>. \u201cDogs 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\u2019s why it is so important to keep dogs well-brushed.\u201d<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9Michael Burrell | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Then there\u2019s the type of grooming required because of more time spent outdoors. \u201cTaking a nice long walk on a spring day is a healthy habit for pets and humans,\u201d Jorge points out. \u201cBut 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.\u201d<\/p>\n And don\u2019t stop at the coat. Jorge reminds owners that new plant growth in the spring can mean debris that can get stuck in your dog\u2019s feet. \u201cChecking 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.\u201d<\/p>\n Worse yet are those little bloodsuckers. \u201cThe biggest thing I stress to clients during springtime is how imperative it is to check your pups for fleas and ticks,\u201d Samantha says. \u201cWhile preventives will stop your pup from an infestation, they can easily still be brought in and begin thriving on indoor pets, furniture or carpets.\u201d<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9smrm1977 | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Ears also warrant some extra care. \u201cEar infections are becoming more and more common, and the transition to spring can cause ear problems,\u201d says Melissa Gulbranson, vice president of marketing for Oxyfresh<\/a> based in Idaho, which makes an ear cleaner for dogs. \u201cWe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n One last note about your dog and more outside time. The ASPCA\u2019s website<\/a> has this reminder: Photo: \u00a9Nastco | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n When you start spring cleaning, set aside a few hours to focus on the items your dog uses daily.<\/p>\n \u201cWinter time is tough on these items, and they probably have the smells to prove it,\u201d Melissa says. \u201cUse 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\u2019s sensitive skin.\u201d<\/p>\n Samantha adds, \u201cI 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\u2019t return to a dirty bed.\u201d<\/p>\n Clean bedding can also mean healthier bedding. \u201cWashing 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,\u201d Sandy says. \u201cThese 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 \u2014 not necessarily only at springtime. Consider using a detergent that is recommended for babies to ensure 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 \u2014 perhaps to point out that you\u2019re three minutes late feeding \u2014 it is the perfect time to replace them.<\/p>\n Photo: \u00a9SolStock | Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/div>\n This is also the time to determine if you agree with Brave New World\u2019s mantra of \u201cending is better than mending.\u201d Check out your dog\u2019s bed, blankets and toys to see if they are torn or overly frayed, potentially causing a safety issue.<\/p>\n \u201cIf 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,\u201d Sandy recommends. \u201cIf the padded area is flat and not offering comfort and support, throw it away.\u201d<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Speaking of washers, Laura Pakis, CPT, blogger and owner and founder of Acme Canine<\/a> in Columbus, Ohio, points out, \u201cNewer dryers have a sanitize cycle, which is great for dog beds.\u201d<\/p>\n Experts give additional tips on when to toss your dog\u2019s other items, including putting yourself in their paws. \u201cMy rule of thumb is to simply ask, would I want to use\/wear this?\u201d Samantha asks. \u201cIf 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.\u201d<\/p>\n The first sign is always smell, Melissa says. \u201cIf 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.\u201d<\/p>\n Finally, check to make sure toys continue to bring joy, not dread. If they pose hazards, that isn\u2019t fun for anyone. \u201cPitch 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,\u201d Laura recommends. \u201cRemove all threads that may appear on the toys after use. Dogs can ingest these and have stomach issues. Same for the \u2018stuffing\u2019 in dog toys.\u201d<\/p>\n These tips are designed to make cleaning a little easier on you \u2014 and your dog \u2014 once spring has sprung. And remember \u2014 you don\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n Top photograph: \u00a9SolStock | Getty Images<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n The post A Spring Cleaning Task List for Dog Owners<\/a> by Elizabeth Anderson Lopez<\/a> appeared first on Dogster<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n \n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3811","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"yoast_head":"\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/2004_Brushing_getty1195651274-e1584981494895.png\")
<\/p>\nGet grooming supplies specific for your dog.<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/2004_Good-Brush_getty161849198.png\")
<\/p>\nKeep dogs well-brushed.<\/h3>\n
![\"spring](\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/2004_Very-Dirty_getty158867733.png\")
<\/p>\nDon\u2019t bring the outside inside.<\/h3>\n
![\"spring](\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/2004_Clean-Ears_Getty68196914.png\")
<\/p>\nClean those ears.<\/h3>\n
Update your dog\u2019s ID.<\/h2>\n
\n\u201cWarmer 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.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"how](\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/2004_In-the-wash_getty1137066684.png\")
<\/p>\nHow to clean your dog\u2019s stuff<\/h2>\n
Start with cleaning beds and toys.<\/h3>\n
\nthat your pooch doesn\u2019t have an allergic reaction to her clean bedding, too.\u201d<\/p>\nHow to deep clean your dog\u2019s bowls.<\/h3>\n
![\"spring](\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/2004_Toys-in-Bed_getty55280619.png\")
<\/p>\nInspect everything.<\/h3>\n
\ntransitions to spring, many people start some significant cleaning projects. Don\u2019t leave your dog out of this ritual. Your dog\u2019s dishes, toys, bedding \u2014 and even your dog herself \u2014 can benefit from a spring-cleaning overhaul. Here\u2019s how to get started.<\/p>\n<\/p>\nDog grooming must-dos<\/h2>\n
<\/p>\nGet grooming supplies specific for your dog.<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nKeep dogs well-brushed.<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nDon\u2019t bring the outside inside.<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nClean those ears.<\/h3>\n
Update your dog\u2019s ID.<\/h2>\n
\n\u201cWarmer 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.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\nHow to clean your dog\u2019s stuff<\/h2>\n
Start with cleaning beds and toys.<\/h3>\n
\nthat your pooch doesn\u2019t have an allergic reaction to her clean bedding, too.\u201d<\/p>\nHow to deep clean your dog\u2019s bowls.<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nInspect everything.<\/h3>\n