By Peter Loy of Greenbank Animal Sanctuary
When preparing for New Year celebrations, especially if you’re expecting guests, it’s important to ensure your dog is clean, free from fleas, ticks, mites, and odours. This guide will help you both groom your dog and clean your home effectively.
Part 1: Bathing Your Dog
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before starting, ensure you have:
• Dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner (anti-flea/tick if necessary).
• Flea comb.
• Towels.
• Non-slip mat for the bath.
• Cotton balls (to protect their ears from water).
• Brush suited to your dog’s coat type.
Step 2: Brush Before Bathing
1. Brush your dog to remove loose fur, dirt, and mats.
2. Pay special attention to areas where fleas and ticks like to hide (armpits, base of the tail, and behind ears).
Step 3: Protect Sensitive Areas
• Place cotton balls in your dog’s ears to prevent water from entering.
• Use a gentle wipe or damp cloth to clean around their eyes.
Step 4: Bathe Your Dog
1. Wet the Coat: Use lukewarm water, starting from the neck down.
2. Apply Shampoo: Work the shampoo into the fur, focusing on flea-prone areas. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes (or per product instructions).
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure no shampoo residue remains as it can irritate the skin.
4. Condition (Optional): If using a conditioner, follow the same process as the shampoo.
5. Dry Your Dog: Towel dry thoroughly and use a blow dryer on a low, cool setting if needed.
Step 5: Post-Bath Grooming
• Use a flea comb to check for any remaining fleas.
• If needed, apply a flea treatment recommended by your vet.
Part 2: Deep Cleaning Your Home
Step 1: Vacuum Everywhere
1. Focus on areas where your dog spends the most time (bedding, sofas, carpets).
2. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture fleas, eggs, and allergens.
3. Vacuum cracks, crevices, and baseboards thoroughly.
Step 2: Wash Dog Items
• Launder your dog’s bedding, toys, and collars in hot water with a pet-safe detergent.
• Air-dry or use a dryer on high heat to kill any pests.
Step 3: Treat Furniture and Carpets
1. Use a pet-safe flea spray or powder on soft surfaces like carpets and upholstery.
2. Steam clean rugs and furniture if possible.
Step 4: Mop Hard Floors
• Mop with a pet-safe disinfectant to remove odours, bacteria, and mites.
Step 5: Address Air Quality
• Use an air purifier to reduce pet odours and dander.
• Light pet-safe candles or use essential oils like lavender (but ensure they’re safe for dogs).
Part 3: Prevent Fleas, Ticks, and Odours
Maintain Regular Grooming
• Brush your dog frequently to remove loose fur and dirt.
• Bathe every 4–6 weeks or as recommended for your dog’s breed.
Use Preventative Treatments
• Apply vet-recommended flea and tick treatments monthly.
• Consider using flea collars or oral preventatives.
Keep the Home Fresh
• Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and vacuum to remove odours.
• Clean litter areas or potty spots promptly.
Part 4: Guest Preparation
Minimize Stress for Your Dog
• Keep your dog calm during celebrations with a quiet, cozy area.
• Consider pheromone diffusers to reduce anxiety.
Ensure Freshness
• Use fabric sprays on furniture and clean any smelly spots in the home.
• Place freshly laundered throws or covers on sofas where your dog might sit.
By following these steps, you’ll have a clean, fresh-smelling home and a happy, healthy dog—pawfect for ringing in the New Year with guests!