Controlling Pet Hair

KEEPING PET HAIR UNDER CONTROL

Many pet owners have to deal with fur on their clothing, couches and floors.

Here are some tips that could help with the fur-stration.

GENERAL TIPS: BRUSH, WIPE AND COVER

1. Brushing thoroughly twice a week or quickly every day makes a huge difference. It also counts a little towards bonding time.
2. Protect furniture with washable slipcovers or old sheets and wash them regularly.
3. Cost-effective, washable throw rugs can be strategically placed to catch a lot of excess hair.
4. A dog sweater or t-shirt, worn for short periods, can help reduce shedding in between grooming sessions and bathing.

CLEANING PRODUCTS TO CONSIDER

• Tape rollers
• Shedding rakes
• Classic lint rollers
• Electrostatic cloths
• Specific vacuum cleaners (some even have special attachments for dog hair)

SPECIFIC TIPS

How to Deal with Hair in the House

• Clean air filters frequently

• Wash bedding at least once a week

• If you’re renovating, choose hardwood or tile over carpet. You can even choose a colour that will make the presence of hair less obvious

• Use a rubber broom before you vacuum

• Use a damp mop on tiles

How to Deal with Hair on Furniture

• Wipe hairy areas while wearing a rubber glove

• Catch hair with a dry sponge (a damp sponge may work even better)

• Cover furniture with slipcovers or blankets and wash them weekly

• A damp, microfiber cloth also works

• Put a velcro-type lint brush to use

How to Deal with Hair on Clothing

• Dry sponge
• Lint brushes
• Rubber glove
• Duct tape or packaging tape
• Damp sponge or damp cloth
• Don’t leave your clothes out
• Get the right brush for your dog’s hair coat
• Hair roller (one for home and one for the car)
• Quality shampoo and proper rinsing may reduce shedding
• Brush and groom regularly (ask your veterinary or pet store for advice on products)
• Quality food, proper nutrition and vitamin supplements may reduce shedding
• If it’s affordable and convenient, consider investing in housecleaning services twice a week
• You may want to make wardrobe changes that minimize hair issues (e.g. wearing more silks and satins; not wearing white if your pet has black hair; etc.)

To deal with hair in the car, refer to the furniture and clothing tips.