Keeping your pet's outdoor kennel as clean and fresh as possible is just as important to good pet health as proper feeding and grooming. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, schedule time every week to clean the kennel, bedding, toys, and bowls. If your dog stays mainly indoors, a monthly cleaning should suffice. The goal is to rid the kennel area of as much fungi, bacteria and viruses as possible.
Importance
Proper sanitation is especially important when more than one dog shares a kennel, as cross-contamination can occur. Viruses and bacteria can grow quickly in kennels, especially those with several dogs or those that are rarely cleaned. The giardia parasite, often detected in soiled kennels, can cause intestinal problems in dogs. Coccidiosis is a disease resembling distemper and is commonly found in dirty kennels. Pet dander can also result in poor air quality, which can be harmful to a dog.
Materials
You need a disinfectant, stiff-bristle brush, and something to dry the kennel---a squeegee, broom or towels. If you choose bleach, be sure to dilute it at one part bleach to 32 parts water, and carefully rinse after use to avoid causing your dog gastrointestinal and respiratory irritation. A more green alternative would be a non-toxic commercial cleaner, or a solution you prepare at home using baking soda, lemon, or unscented soap.
Process
Clean and disinfect all surfaces, not just the floor. Remove the dog(s), then remove any bowls, bedding, toys and other items. Wash these separately in disinfectant. Remove all solid waste and hair from the kennel, then apply the cleaning solution and use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub all surfaces. Leave the solution in place following manufacturer recommendations. Rinse the entire kennel with hot water, drying all surfaces as thoroughly as possible. After drying, add clean bedding, water and toys and finally, your dog.
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