by Gail Gilman, Family Life Consultant, M.Ed., C.F.C.S. and Professor Emeritus, University of Minnesota
If you have been thinking about adopting a dog or other pet, there has never been a better time. Animal shelters in many areas are overcrowded due to a matching decline in pet adoptions. Pets can be a welcome addition especially for an older person.
Housebreaking a puppy requires patience so try to employ the three C’s: Consistency – a regular schedule of walking and feeding; Confinement – in a crate, if necessary, to build bladder and bowel control; and Cleaning – clean up accidents promptly and then treat the spot with an odor neutralizer. Bringing a new pet into your household presents some additional cleaning challenges, particularly if there are family members who have asthma or allergies.
- Vacuum regularlyto keep up with the pet hair. An upright vacuum or a canister style with a nozzle will pick up two to six times as much dust from a rug as canisters without a power nozzle. Be sure to move the pet to another space when you vacuum; otherwise, the noise may upset your pet.
- Brush the dog frequently. If possible, do it outside, away from those with allergies. When you are finished, wash your hands with soap and water.
- Pet-proof the environment. Tuck electrical cords out of the way. Install safety latches in lower kitchen cabinets. Do not leave small items around that might be mistaken for chew toys. Do not leave any type of cleaning liquid out where pets might be tempted to take a drink.
- Wash food dishes daily. This keeps them from being a magnet for ants and other crawly critters.
- Choose a pet bed with washable, removable cushion coversto make cleaning easier.
- Put a washable blanket or throw over your pet’s favorite chairor corner of the sofa. Have multiple covers so that one is available while the other is in the wash.
If you would like more information on “Cleaning Tips for When a Pet Joins the Household” feel free to contact Gail Gilman, Family Life Consultant, M.Ed., C.F.C.S. and Emeritus University of Minnesota at waldn001@umn.edu. Be sure to watch for more Family Living Focus information in next week’s paper.