Cleaning Measures with Your Four-Legged Kids

Now, I know a lot of you are cleaning and disinfecting your homes like never before.  I want to talk to you all about these cleaning measures with your four-legged kids under foot.

• During the Covid-19 pandemic, many of you may be using powerful cleaner to disinfect your homes – like bleach, ammonia, pine oils, chlorine and ethanol’s like those found in Lysol spray.
• If you read these labels, they often state: Hazardous to humans and domestic animals.
• Remember, a dog’s sense of smell is 10,000 times more powerful than ours, so if it smells strong to you, imagine how it smells to your pet. Remember how much closer they are to the floor than you are!

So, here are some useful tips when cleaning to keep pets safe:

• Follow the directions on the label – especially when diluting the product.
• Let the products dry completely and afterwards wipe the surfaces again with water
• Even better wipe down with 4 parts water, 1 part vinegar and lemon juice. Yes, this even includes when you use disinfecting wipes!  This will help avoid any possible chemical residue that can get on paws, fur and even be licked and ingested.
• Keep your pets (and children) out of the room you are cleaning until completely dry. This includes floors, counter tops, tables and steps.
• Always ventilate during and after cleaning to help reduce any strong odors that can irritate nasal membranes and eyes.
• Always cap, seal, and store cleaning products out of the reach of pets (and children).
• It is also recommended that when coming in from outside walks, wipe your pet’s paws, collars, and leashes with a simple baby wipe to remove any additional dirt and germs before re-entering the home. And yes, do wash collars and leashes regularly in the laundry with mild detergent on a warm water cycle.

Please follow all the guidelines in place for you and your family by the State of Maryland and from our Federal Government. Best Friends Fur Ever is looking forward to seeing you and your pup when you want or need them to come play for the day, a half day or stay the night.