TIPS ON TIDYING ALL YOUR DOG’S GEAR

By Penny Lex

Now that Spring is here, it’s time to think about some serious seasonal housecleaning. You know…tasks like pulling out the stove and refrigerator to clean behind, washing windows, and reorganizing closets. It is also time to think of the dog and what needs to be done to do to refresh his space as well.

While some of the tasks below aren’t necessarily seasonal chores, but rather daily or weekly, it seems like a good time to assess their frequency to ensure the best possible care for our canine companions.

1. INSPECT THE COLLARS

Make sure they are in good condition, fit properly, and that the tags are secure. Then give them a wash to remove oil and debris. Depending on the material, you may be able to use a mixture of dog shampoo and water. Just be sure to rinse well. Do the same for leashes. Assess the effectiveness of their hooks and clean them according to fabric requirement.

2. CHECK DOG TAGS

After a period of time and wear, engraved information can become illegible. Make sure letters and numbers are easy to read and if they’re not, replace.

3. CLEAN BEDDING

Hopefully your dog’s bed has a removable, washable cover that you can zip off and throw in the washing machine according to directions. Even better is when you can wash the bed base, too. Adding baking soda to the wash water will help if there’s an undesirable odor. Be cautious with soaps and fabric softeners, as some dogs have sensitivities. Dry items on very low heat or air-dry to avoid shrinkage.

4. VEHICLE SEAT COVERS AND BOOSTER SEATS

Clean according to directions.

5. CRATES, CARRIERS, AND STROLLERS

For crates and carriers, clean with warm, soapy water or a mild disinfectant, rinse, and dry. Make sure the stroller is in good working order and clean according to product instructions.

6. TACKLE THE TOY BOX

One idea is to sort the stash by items you want to keep, those that are in good condition but no longer played with, and items to toss because they have seen better days or may be hazardous. Toss the stuffed animals that are intact into the washing machine, then dryer. Take a minute to stitch up those tattered, but favorite, “babies” that are losing their stuffing. Plastic, rubber, or hard toys can get washed with soap and hot water (you can put them through the dishwasher on a “hot” cycle, too). Bag the toys that are no longer played with and pass them on to friends whose dogs will be thrilled to receive “new” goodies.

7. FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS

They tend to acquire a build-up of residue on the bottom and sides and need frequent cleaning. Wash them well (bottom, sides and lid) with a degreasing detergent. Rinse and air dry. Make sure containers and lids are totally dry before refilling. Do this regularly to prevent an infestation of bugs that could easily find their way to people food.

8. WASH THE DISHES

Since the germs harbored by unwashed food and water dishes can make dogs sick, the vessels should be put through the dishwasher or cleaned frequently with hot, soapy water. If you have dog dishes outside, be sure to clean those as well.

9. GET RID OF EXPIRED GOODS

Check the pet pantry. Toss canned food that’s beyond the expiration date.

Properly dispose of any expired or no longer needed pet medications. Check with a local veterinary clinic or police station for appropriate collection site.

10. GROOMING TOOLS

Cleaning your dog’s combs and brushes prevents allergens from spreading and makes the tools work better. Soak combs in a container of hot water, soap, or bleach. Rinse and allow to air dry. For brushes use a comb to remove fur from the pad of the brush. Then soak in hot water with a disinfectant, soap, or equal parts of water and vinegar or dog shampoo. Rinse well and air dry. You can also use Barbicide disinfectant cleaning liquid for grooming tools. For electric clippers and nail cutters, refer to individual product instructions.

11. APPAREL

Clean apparel, boots, and shoes according to instructions. Make sure that buttons or hooks are secure.

12. BLANKETS AND THROWS

Wash and dry according to directions.

While your dog could probably care less if his toys have been washed, fluffed, or sanitized, the sensation of a clean, unsoiled collar or the ability to stretch out on clean, fresh bedding after a full day of patrolling the premises will probably feel pretty doggone good.