To properly clean a kennel, start by removing the pet and all loose items like bedding and toys. Then, remove solid waste and debris, and thoroughly clean the kennel with a pet-safe cleaner and a stiff brush. Rinse the kennel well with water, and disinfect according to product instructions, paying attention to contact time. Finally, rinse again, dry thoroughly, and replace the clean bedding and accessories.
Begin the pet kennel cleaning process by ensuring the animal is removed. Never leave a pet in the kennel during cleaning; instead, place the dog or cat in a separate holding area.
Take out feeding and water bowls, bedding, and toys from the kennel.
Clean bowls by immersing them in a diluted disinfectant solution. Rinse, dry, or run them through a dishwasher. Machine-wash blankets and other soft bedding.
Scoop all solid waste from the kennel and sweep up any fur or hair.
Rinse the kennel thoroughly with hot water.
Dilute disinfectants and cleaning agents according to the manufacturer’s instructions, preventing damage to metal cages or harm to animals. Apply a pet-friendly cleaning solution to all surfaces and clean meticulously.
Starting from the top, scrub the entire kennel with a stiff-bristled brush. Ensure thorough cleaning of the ceiling and walls above dog height, as disease can be transmitted from any unsanitized section. Pay attention to resting boards, doors, hinges, latches, and surfaces between the runs.
Allow the cleaning solution to dwell as instructed.
Rinse all surfaces thoroughly with water.
To keep the kennel floors clean and dry, it’s recommended to use a squeegee to remove any excess water from the walkway leading to the kennels. Begin with the first kennel and use the squeegee to push any remaining water on the floor towards the drain. Allow the floors to air dry before moving on to the next kennel. Consider using fans or other ventilation to aid in drying.
Replace clean food and water bowls, bedding, and toys. The dog kennel is now ready for the animal.
Suggested reading:
Cleaning products can affect animals differently than humans, so it’s crucial to select kennel cleaning supplies specifically formulated to be safe around animals. Ensuring your kennels are clean and disinfected is not enough; avoiding any potential toxic residues is essential.
Distinguishing between cleanliness and disinfection is crucial. While washing a kennel effectively removes dirt, debris, and animal waste, it doesn’t guarantee the elimination of all lingering pathogens. Ensure safety for your kennel’s occupants by disinfecting after cleaning.
To successfully complete the task, it’s essential to have the appropriate kennel cleaning tools. This includes not only cleaning agents but also items such as mops, buckets, scrub brushes, squeegees, vacuums, and cleaning cloths. Consider having multiple sets of equipment to prevent cross-contamination, especially if one of the occupants is unwell.
While bleach is effective for chemical sanitation in laundry processing, it is unsuitable for cleaning kennels. Its toxicity and limited disinfecting capabilities make it less ideal than other cleaning products specifically formulated for safe use around animals.
From bowls and bedding to toys—anything not secured must undergo disinfection to thwart the transmission of pathogens known for causing kennel issues.
Ensure your pets stay clean! Promptly address any accidents in their living spaces to prevent prolonged exposure. If you possess grooming skills, consider giving your pets a thorough bath, provided they are comfortable with the process.
Regularly replace your bedding. If you opt for straw, ensure its routine cleaning and replacement with fresh, untainted straw. For blankets or similar bedding, regular removal and washing are essential.
Perform regular cleaning for optimal results. Aim for a thorough deep clean and disinfection every week, with spot-cleaning in between. It’s essential to prioritize cleanliness in kennel maintenance; there’s no such thing as excessive disinfecting when it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of pets in your care.
Properly cleaning a metal dog kennel is essential for maintaining your pet’s health, comfort, and safety. By following a consistent cleaning routine—removing waste, disinfecting surfaces, and ensuring proper drying—you can prevent the spread of bacteria and unpleasant odors. Always use pet-safe cleaning products and pay attention to hidden corners where germs may linger. A clean kennel not only keeps your dog happy and healthy but also gives you peace of mind knowing their environment is safe and sanitary. Regular upkeep is a small effort that goes a long way in responsible pet care.
Comments
0