March is Spring Cleaning Month
It's that time of year again and for many of us - the weather is warming up, we look around our homes, where we work and want things to be brighter, cleaner and decluttered. But what about our pets?
Here are 10 spring cleaning tips for pet parents:
1. Clean and Organize Your Pet's Food Stash
Go through your pet's pantry and dispose of any expired or stale pet food and treats. Make sure all bags and containers are clean and airtight. If you have treats or food you are no longer using but are not expired, donate them to your local animal shelter!
2. Donate Old Toys and Accessories
- Gently used towels and blankets
- Dog leashes or harness
- Gently used dog beds or Kuranda beds
- Gently used dog toys (sturdy/ plastic)
Keep
- Keep any toys that your pet still plays with and are still in good condition
- Donate
- Donate toys your pet doesn't play with but are in decent condition to your local animal shelter
- Trash
- Broken and damaged toys should go in the trash as they can pose a danger to your pet
3. Clean and Organize Grooming Supplies
If you have expired grooming products, toss them! Clean all brushes, combs, etc., or donate them to your local favorite animal shelter.
4. Wash Pet Beds and Bedding
It's always a good idea to clean your pet's bed throughout the year, but spring is the perfect time to really give them a good wash.
5. Verify Pet Medical Records and Tags
If it's time to make a vet appointment, get it on the calendar now. Also, make sure to have correct phone numbers, addresses, and contact information on all your pet's records including its microchip and tag. Another tip is to create an emergency contact sheet for your pet.
6. Inventory Your Pet's First-Aid Kit
If you don't have a pet first-aid kit, now is the time to create one. If you do have one, take a few minutes to verify expiration dates on medications and refill any products you've used.
7. Wash Bowls
Pet bowls should be cleaned after every feeding to ensure you're not passing bacteria and germs to your pet. Take some time to scrub out bowls and give them a good cleaning.
8. Replace Air Filters
This is the perfect time to replace the air filters in your home. Look for specialized air filters for pet owners that work extra hard to minimize dust and danger allergens.
9. Check Collars, Harnesses, and Leashes
Pet collars, harnesses, and leashes are not meant to last forever. Normal wear and tear will cause them to lose their effectiveness. Take this time to make sure your pet's collar and harness still fit and are in good working order along with your leash.
10. Deep Clean Your Carpets or Floors
As a pet owner, regular cleaning and vacuuming is necessary. Spring cleaning is the perfect time to give your floors a deep cleaning. Paws track in lots of mud and dirt. Deep cleaning your carpets also eliminates pet hair and urine.
Did you know Mission Viejo Animal Services accepts donated items?
Check out our website to view our wish list here.
