Dogs bring many wonderful things to our lives, including laughter, friendship, joy, and fun. They also tend to bring a few bad odors with them. Fido can get pretty stinky! Below, an Aurora, CO vet offers advice on beating bad doggy smells.
Baths
First and foremost, keep up with Fido’s bathing needs. Every dog has slightly different requirements in this area. Some pooches should be bathed every few weeks, while others can go months. Between baths, use pet wipes or pet dry shampoo to keep your furry buddy smelling fresh. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.
Doggy Dental Care
Fido isn’t exactly renowned for having fresh breath, but his affectionate smooches shouldn’t make you cringe. Dogs need proper oral care, just like humans. Keep your canine pal’s mouth healthy by brushing his choppers with a pet toothbrush and toothpaste. Offering your pooch dental-formula treats and chews can also help, as can oral rinses. Ask your vet for more information.
Clean Bedding
Fido spends a lot of time in his doggy bed, so it won’t take long for it to get stinky. Choose a bed with a removable cover, one you can wash regularly.
Vacuum
The vacuum cleaner is a great tool in the fight against bad pet odors. Vacuum high-traffic areas and your pup’s favorite lounging spots daily, and then do more thorough cleanings every week.
Clean Fido’s Belongings
Fido’s other belongings, such as his toys and collar, can also trap odors. Collars can be hand washed with baby shampoo or pet shampoo. Stuffed animals and tennis balls can go in the washing machine. Use a hot cycle and unscented detergent. Many rubber toys can be washed in the dishwasher. Choose the hot cycle, and skip the soap. Rope toys can be soaked in water and then microwaved on high for a minute. Be sure to remove metal parts first!
Air Purifiers
A good, high-quality air purifier is definitely a worthwhile investment for pet parents. You can even find some that are specifically made for fighting pet odors. Or, you can go a more natural route and set out some pet-safe plants. These will also help purify the air. Plus, they’ll make your home look nice! Check the ASPCA site for a full list of safe and unsafe plants.
Please contact us, your Aurora, CO vet clinic, anytime. We’re here to help!
