Accidents do happen. Even the smartest puppy or the most well-trained adult dog may have an accident now and then. If not caught in the act it's best to just ignore the episode and not reprimand. Chances are the dog will not get the connection between your yelling and the mess in the middle of the living room carpet. The only constructive thing to be done is ... clean it up.
Clean-up Essentials
- Paper towels
- Spatula or cardboard
- Club soda
- Baking soda or salt
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- Ammonia
- Pet-odor neutralizer (available at pet-supply stores)
- Commercial stain remover designed for pet stains
- Commercial carpet and upholstery cleaner
Stain Cleaning Methods
| Stain |
Cleaning Method |
Urine |
Blot up liquid with paper towels. Pour club soda on the area, then blot it up with paper towels. Next, apply a pet-odor neutralizer, following the product's directions. If stains remain, use a commercial stain remover designed for pet stains. |
Feces |
Remove solids, then blot up any moisture with paper towels. Then follow cleaning procedure for urine. |
Vomit |
As quickly as possible, scoop up solids and apply baking soda or salt. When dry, vacuum up the rest. Follow by pouring club soda on the area, then blotting it up with paper towels. If stains remain, apply a nontoxic commercial carpet and upholstery cleaner of stain remover designed for pet stains. |
Overturned plant |
Vacuum up soil. For stains, let any remaining moist soil dry first, then vacuum again. Apply club soda and blot with paper towels. Follow with a nontoxic commercial carpet and upholstery cleaner or stain remover. |
Other |
For difficult-to-remove matter, follow cleaning procedure for urine. If stains remain, mix 1/2 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of ammonia and apply solution to stain. Rinse with club soda to remove peroxide and ammonia residue. |
