Hi everyone,

We all certainly know that pets bring a great deal of joy into a home, but they also require additional work. A friend recently asked me for some feedback about how to deal with keeping her home clean and enjoying her furry friends at the same time. I suggested that she use some preventive measures to help minimize time and effort put into cleaning up after your pet.

First, choose carpet and hardwood floors that are easy to clean and that are resistant to stains and claws. For furniture, choose fabrics that are stain- and tear-resistant. Fabrics that are tightly woven work well.

Next, keep the area where your pet sleeps, eats, and plays clean. This will help to minimize pet odors in your home. If your pet has an accident, immediately clean it up to reduce the likelihood of staining. There are many commercial products that are specifically formulated for this purpose. We recommend the Lambert Kay FRESH 'N CLEAN®  Combo Kit.  To reduce odor, baking soda or vinegar are quite effective. (For baking soda, sprinkle on the area and then wait at least fifteen minutes before vacuuming.) You can use an odor neutralizer to get rid of the smell.

To help reduce pet shedding, keep pets clean and well-groomed. Bathe dogs weekly, for example, and brush or comb your dog’s fur at least weekly. To reduce pet allergies, wash your hands with soap and water after handling your pet, and sweep, mop, and dust frequently to keep errant pet fur to a minimum. Establishing "pet-free" zones, in areas such as bedrooms, also helps minimize allergic reaction. And giving your pet a designated place, as well, for resting and sleeping helps you train them to stay off of furniture and gives them a place that is their own where they can feel secure. Pet beds come in all shapes and sizes, and many of them can be cleaned in the washing machine. For beds that are too big, you can dry clean them. Also to help fight against allergies, make sure that your home is well ventilated. Open the windows when possible (this will help prevent pet odor, as well), and use air filters (or a vacuum with an air filter).