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Adventures with your dog in the great outdoors are always entertaining, even in the colder months, but in winter your dog is more likely to bring home some unwanted souvenirs of their fun in the form of muddy dog paws. Check out these ways to help your house and car survive the combination of playful dog and wet weather!
Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
Washing dog paws in a shallow bowl near the door is a good first line of defence and can also help prevent infections between the paw pads caused by dirt and moisture. Use warm water and a pet-friendly soap (try mild dog shampoo), then rinse and dry the paws thoroughly to avoid any irritation. Special pet wipes are a quick and easy alternative.
Pet specialist cleaning company Molly’s Home and Pet recommends microfibre mud mats – ideally one at every entrance – for cleaning mud and dirt from dog paws before it can be tracked into the house. As well as mats, ensure you have some dedicated dog towels just inside the door and teach your dog to wait to be wiped before it races inside.
Booties can be a great option to protect paws (and floors). Most dogs won’t like them at first, but a bit of perseverance can be worth the effort. If your pooch is long-haired (or simply loves to get dirty), you’ll know it’s not only their paws that collect mud. Consider a well-fitting raincoat, or even one that covers their legs, to help cut down on the dirt.
Wet and dirty fur is more likely to get tangled and matted, so regular brushing is important to remove any caked-on mud. You could also speak to a groomer about trimming any long hair around the paw pads to help reduce pick-up.
If your dog has worn down the grass in your yard, try spreading straw over the mud, or fence off the area until the grass grows back. The team at Molly’s also suggests installing an artificial grass area. “By placing this outside you can help your dog avoid mud but still provide an area for them to toilet.”
To limit the spread of muck in your car, try using a crate secured by a seatbelt – not only will this contain the dirt, but it is also safer for you and your pet. Also check out rubber or plastic seat protectors, booster seats and car hammocks – these are made especially for dogs in back seats and can be removed and wiped clean, or even hosed.
Check with your local authority which animals are permitted to be kept as pets in your area.
Check out our D.I.Y. cat perch or floating futon so your feline can relax in the sun.
Photo credit: Adobe Stock
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
