How to Properly Clean Dog Diarrhea: Don't Let It Dry
Dealing with dog diarrhea can be an unpleasant part of pet ownership, but knowing how to properly clean it up can save your flooring, furniture, and your sense of smell. One of the biggest mistakes pet owners can make is waiting too long to clean up diarrhea, especially letting it dry before tackling it. In this article, we'll explain why this is a bad idea and offer expert tips on how to clean up dog diarrhea efficiently and safely.
Why You Should Never Let Dog Diarrhea Dry
When your dog has an accident in the house, time is of the essence. Letting diarrhea dry out can make the cleanup job exponentially more difficult and cause lasting damage. Here are several reasons why:
- Increased staining: Wet diarrhea is easier to lift from surfaces. As it dries, it penetrates deeper into porous materials like carpets and upholstery, leading to stubborn stains.
- Lingering odor: Dried diarrhea can trap foul odors in your home. The longer it sits, the harder it becomes to fully remove the smell.
- Bacterial growth: Feces contain bacteria, and allowing it to sit—even dry—can promote bacterial growth and increase the risk of illness for both pets and humans.
- Attracts pests: Flies and insects are attracted to fecal matter, and dry waste can still attract unwanted pests in your home.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Fresh Dog Diarrhea
For best results, take immediate action using the following process:
- Wear gloves: Protect yourself from bacteria and potential parasites.
- Remove as much as you can: Use paper towels or a plastic spatula to scoop up the majority of the waste.
- Blot, don't rub: Gently blot the area with paper towels to absorb moisture without pushing the mess deeper.
- Apply an enzymatic cleaner: Use a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner to break down organic waste and neutralize odors.
- Allow to sit: Let the cleaner sit for 5–10 minutes as directed by the product instructions.
- Rinse and blot: Rinse with clean water and blot dry with paper towels or a clean cloth.
- Repeat if needed: For stubborn spots, you may need to repeat the process.
What to Do If the Mess Has Dried
If you weren't able to clean up the diarrhea immediately and it's now dry, follow these modified steps:
- Moisten the area: Lightly spray the dried mess with water or a pet-safe pre-treatment solution to loosen it up.
- Scrape gently: Use a dull tool to carefully lift off as much dried material as possible without damaging the surface beneath.
- Proceed with cleaning: Continue with the enzymatic cleaner as described above.
Preventing Future Accidents
While occasional accidents are part of pet life, frequent diarrhea could indicate health issues that require veterinary attention. Make note of the following if you notice recurring problems:
- Diet changes: Sudden changes in food can upset a dog’s digestive system.
- Food intolerance or allergies: Some dogs react negatively to certain ingredients.
- Infections or parasites: These can cause acute gastrointestinal distress.
- Stress and anxiety: Changes in environment or routine may lead to loose stools.
Always consult your veterinarian if your dog shows signs of persistent or severe diarrhea.
Cleaning Tools to Keep Handy
To prepare for any future incidents, it's good to stock up on cleaning supplies:
- Disposable gloves
- Paper towels
- Enzymatic cleaner
- Spray bottle with water
- Plastic spatula or scraper
- Old towels or cleaning rags
Final Thoughts
Acting quickly is critical when your dog has a messy accident. Never let dog diarrhea dry before cleaning, as doing so complicates the cleanup process and can lead to lasting stains, odors, and health hazards. By taking prompt action and using the right tools, you can maintain a cleaner home and ensure a healthier environment for both you and your furry friend.
