Accidents Happen...Now What?

Even the most well-trained pups will have an occasional accident- it comes with the territory! The good news is that ‘most stains can be prevented if you act fast,’ says Larry Cooper, technical director of the Professional Carpet & Upholstery Association. ‘Getting to it sooner rather than later is key.’

Fresh Stains:

 If you catch Fido in the act, or happen to see a spot that’s still wet, the goal will be to get up as much as possible so it doesn’t seep into the carpet backing and padding. Start by scraping up any solids with a blunt-edged object like a spoon. Then, firmly blot the area with a thick layer of white (prints could bleed onto wet carpet!) paper towels or old towel.

 Resist the urge to scrub! Because carpet fibers are twisted together, vigorous rubbing will only cause them to come apart. Instead, continue blotting until the area seems dry, then weigh down the towels with something heavy (like a phone book) overnight to soak up any remaining liquid. If the spot remains once the area is completely dry, it’s time for Phase 2.

Dry Stains:

 Contrary to popular belief, most pet stains can be removed with plain water, according to the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration. Use a sprayer bottle to re-dampen the spot, making sure not to flood the area, which can cause the stain to further penetrate the carpet. Next, use fresh paper towels to soak up the water, repeating until the spot is gone.

 For stubborn stains, or for ones that have an odor, try a pet enzyme carpet cleaner, like Resolve Pet Stain, found at your local pet or grocery store. These products are specially formulated and safe for carpets. Be sure to avoid using anything with ammonia, which may rid the odor, but could attract even more soil over time and attract Fido for a repeat performance!

Finally, we all know there’s always going to be that one stain that we can’t get out. Since pet accidents may contain stomach acids, food dyes and bile, they’re particularly difficult to remove. For these times, it’s probably best to call in the professionals, like Apex Carpet Cleaning in Charleston.

 Does Fido need to see a vet?

 While an occasional accident isn’t uncommon, anything more frequent could indicate something serious. See your vet promptly if:

•  Fido is vomiting repeatedly, vomiting yellow bile, seems weak or lethargic, is in pain or if his condition is worsening.
• Fido is vomiting blood or what may look like coffee grounds, which could indicate bleeding in the stomach.
• House-trained Fido begins having accidents, which could mean internal parasites or an infection.
• Fido seems under the weather and has abnormally bad breath, which could indicate uncontrolled diabetes.

 Erin Thomas is the owner of Summerville’s Lowcountry Pet Sitters, the area’s premier in-your-home pet care service. For more information, please visit www.LCPetSitters.com or call 843-327-7487.