Have you noticed a bit of a smell lingering around your home? It’s not uncommon for our canine companions to start leaving an odor in our living spaces after a while. To get rid of the smell and return your home to its former fresh scent, use these tips from Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA veterinary clinic.

Regular Cleaning

A lot of that lingering dog odor is caused by hair and dander that winds up settling all around your home. The best way to combat this—like it or not—is by simple vacuuming and dusting. Do this on a weekly basis and pay special attention to areas that accumulate detritus, like window blinds and shelving.

Groom Your Pooch

You’ll be amazed at what regular grooming can do to cut down on smells. Not only does brushing your pooch on a daily basis remove grime and loose fur, it spreads essential skin oils through the coat to reduce shedding at the outset. The occasional bath—using a shampoo made specifically for dogs, of course—is another great way to get your dog smelling great again. Ask your vet to recommend a quality product.

Odor-Control Products

If your dog has had accidents on the carpet in the past, you’ll want to pick up a specialized odor-control product at your local pet supply store. There are odor products for just about every type of stain or mess out there, including urine, feces, and vomit. Air fresheners can also help to get your home smelling fresh again, but remember: they only mask smells, allowing them to return eventually.

Wash Pet Beds

Your dog definitely spends a lot of time on his bed. That’s why it’s a hotspot for odor accumulation! Be sure to toss Fido’s bed and blankets in the washing machine every now and then to keep things fresh. You can even sprinkle some baking soda over it, allowing the powder to soak up remnant odors for a few hours, before vacuuming it off and returning it to your dog.

See Your Vet

If you still can’t seem to control your dog’s odor, or if your dog has seemingly become extra-smelly in a short period of time, it’s time to pay a visit to the vet’s office. It’s possible that medical issues could be the cause! Set up an appointment at Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA vet clinic, for help.