Can we take a minute to talk about something almost every pet parent deals with?
Although pet hair and odors are a small price to pay to have our furry ones at home with us, the fuzz and funky smells can sometimes seem overwhelming!
Ziva’s gets hair everywhere. On the tile floor, under the bed, hidden behind the couch. And if I’m brutally honest, Ziva does tend to be a little smelly time to time.
I know enough pet parents to know I’m not the only one dealing with this.
Over the years, I’ve found some of the easiest ways to keep my home as fur and odor-free as possible. Either brush her frequently when she decides to blow her coat, vacuum daily (that never happens) or give her frequent baths. (This happens very rarely since she doesn’t like hopping in the bathtub on her own.)
Here’s a few of the things I do to tackle pet odor and hair in my home:
Tip # 1: Throw your pet’s linens in the washer.
Ziva loves her blankey. Ugh, but does it get smelly!
I invested in washer-safe fabrics and sturdy bedding that can easily be washed. Flannel sheets are the best!
Pro tip: Use pet-friendly, odor-busting detergent. Don’t forget to wash your own bed linens, too, especially if your Fido loves lounging on them.
Tip #2: Air Purification
Fresh air makes everything better. When the weather is nice, I like to throw open the windows and turn on the attic fan. Make sure your screens are secure, though—especially if you have a door-dasher!
If you can’t air your space out or it’s too hot or too chilly to open the windows, an air purifier may help. Many of them clean the air by filtering out particles that cause bad smells.
Tip #3: CLEANING FLOORS WELL – SWEEP, MOP, SWIFFER, STEAMING CARPET, VACUUMING
Regularly cleaning your floors and carpets will do wonders for odor and hair. In an ideal world, I really vacuum once a week. Making these quick chores a part of your regular household duties makes a big difference. Be sure to check labels of any chemicals you use to make sure they’re safe for your furry friend. Some “clean smelling” products have pine oil or other oils or acids that can be dangerous to pets. Choose products designed with your pet in mind, like the pet care collection found at www.tackletinkle.com. These products can also be used in the laundry room for your wash!
Tip #4: Groom your pet.
Bathing, brushing and trimming your pet’s hair regularly cuts down on smelly odors and makes your pet look great, too. I have to Ziva groomed eery 6 weeks because she sheds so much and is a little yeasty.
Regular brushing helps a lot during shedding season. Brush your pet outdoors, if it’s safe, or be sure to vacuum after an indoor brushing session. And remember, if you come across any mats in your pets fur to seek out the assistance of a professional.
Tip #5: Check your pet for any health issues
Shedding is normal. Excessive shedding is not. An active dog can get somewhat smelly, but if the smell is strong from your pet’s skin, mouth or ears, your pet may need more than regular home grooming. Medical conditions, infections, allergies, poor diet, stress and anxiety may result in shedding or odors that really need the attention of your veterinarian to check for serious health issues. Proper treatment can help your pet live better and help reduce odors or loose hair.
Having a pet means you will deal with hair and odors from time to time. It’s part of pet parenthood. What do you do around the home to deal with hair or odors? Let me know!