At The Wright Pet Daycamp & Boarding LLC, we love seeing dogs enjoy their time at daycare, especially during the spring season when the warmer weather brings more opportunities for outdoor play. However, we also know that spring showers mean muddy paws, wet fur, and the challenge of keeping your home clean after a fun day of play.
We take every step to minimize mess before sending your pup home, but we also want to share some helpful tips to make post-daycare cleanup easier for you. Whether it’s protecting your car, keeping your floors spotless, or reducing the “wet dog” smell, here’s how you can manage the mud while letting your dog enjoy the best of springtime daycare.
Minimizing the Mess Before You Pick Up Your Dog
Our team at The Wright Pet does our best to wipe down dogs before they go home, but a little extra preparation can go a long way in keeping your pup (and your car) cleaner.
Pack a Doggy Cleanup Kit
We recommend keeping a small cleanup kit in your car for those extra muddy days. Some useful items include:
- Microfiber towels – Great for wiping down paws and fur quickly.
- Pet-safe wipes – Perfect for cleaning muddy paws, noses, and bellies.
- Portable paw cleaner – A simple, cup-like device that removes dirt from paws before your dog hops in the car.
- Water-resistant seat cover – Helps keep your car’s interior clean from mud and fur.
- Extra leash or harness – If your dog’s gear gets soaked, a dry backup will keep them comfortable on the ride home.
Ask Us About Our Cleanup Routine
We do our best to dry off wet pups and wipe muddy paws before they leave. If you ever need extra assistance or have concerns about keeping your dog clean after daycare, feel free to ask our staff—we’re happy to help!
Consider a Dog-Friendly Raincoat
If your pup doesn’t mind wearing one, a raincoat with belly coverage can reduce how much mud and water get on their fur during outdoor play. This can be especially helpful for dogs with longer coats that collect dirt easily.
Post-Daycare Cleanup: Keeping Your Home Clean
Even with our efforts, some pups still go home with a little extra dirt from their adventures. Having a quick cleanup routine at home can prevent muddy paw prints on your floors and furniture.
Set Up a Cleaning Station Near Your Entryway
A designated area for wiping paws before your dog comes inside can make a big difference. Consider keeping these items handy:
- Absorbent mats or rugs – A great way to catch excess mud and water.
- A shallow water tray – Let your dog step in a small tray of lukewarm water to rinse off muddy paws.
- A towel rack with clean, dry towels – Always have a few towels ready to dry off wet fur and paws.
- Dog-friendly dry shampoo or spray – Helps freshen up your pup between baths.
Train Your Dog for a “Paw Check”
Teaching your pup to stop at the door and wait while you wipe their paws can make cleanup much easier. With positive reinforcement and treats, many dogs quickly learn that waiting means extra belly rubs and rewards!
Quick Bathing Solutions for Muddy Days
- Use a handheld shower nozzle or a bucket of water – Focus on the paws and underbelly instead of giving a full bath.
- Try a waterless dog shampoo – If your pup just needs a quick freshening up, a dry shampoo can help absorb dirt and odors.
- Make sure your pup is fully dry – Whether you use a towel or a pet-safe blow dryer, drying your dog thoroughly helps prevent chills and keeps your home clean.
Protecting Your Car and Home from Muddy Paws
Springtime fun doesn’t have to mean extra work for you! Here are some ways to keep your space clean while still letting your pup enjoy the season.
Use Washable Throws and Covers
- Place washable blankets over couches and pet beds to catch dirt and fur.
- Waterproof covers for furniture and car seats help keep surfaces clean.
Invest in a Good Doormat
- A high-absorbency doormat outside your door helps remove mud before your pup enters.
- Double up with a second mat inside the house to catch any remaining dirt.
Keep a Pet-Safe Floor Cleaner Handy
- A small broom or vacuum near the door makes it easy to sweep up dried mud.
- Use a pet-safe floor cleaner for quick cleanups on tile or hardwood floors.
How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog in Spring?
While it’s tempting to bathe your pup frequently during muddy months, too much bathing can dry out their skin. Instead, follow these guidelines:
- Short-haired breeds – A bath once a month is usually enough, with spot cleaning as needed.
- Long-haired or double-coated breeds – Bathing every 4-6 weeks helps maintain coat health while preventing excessive dirt buildup.
- Dogs prone to skin allergies – Use a hypoallergenic, moisturizing shampoo to avoid irritation.
For pups who get extra muddy at daycare, a quick rinse of their paws and underbelly with plain water can keep them clean without overwashing.
Enjoy Spring Without the Mess!
We love seeing dogs have fun, and we know that springtime means extra outdoor adventures. With the right routine, you can manage muddy paws and wet fur while still letting your pup enjoy daycare to the fullest.
At The Wright Pet Daycamp & Boarding LLC, we take extra care to keep your dog as clean as possible before they go home. If you have any questions or need additional cleaning recommendations, our team is always here to help!
For former clients of TLC Pet Lodge: With TLC Pet Lodge now closed, The Wright Pet Daycamp & Boarding LLC welcomes all pet parents searching for a new, trusted boarding facility. If you need a dependable place for your dog or cat to stay, The Wright Pet is here to help.
