7 Ways to Celebrate National Pet Day

Treating your dog to a long walk or hike is a great way to show your pet some love while simultaneously working up a sweat. Make sure your dog’s leash or harness is clean and in good working order before you hit the trail, or you can wash them afterward if you happen to encounter some muddy terrain.

Plan a family photo shoot that includes your furry friend and a fresh wardrobe for all involved. This can include freshly washed dog collars or even dog clothes. The material of your dog collar may determine whether you should put it in the washing machine or clean it by hand, so be sure to plan in advance to allow yourself enough time to wash and dry it.

Pet hair and slobber can make your pets’ blankets and stuffed animals look old, worn and sometimes just worse for wear. Washing your pet’s favorite toys and blankets can help to give them a refreshed look while also helping to remove germs and dander.

Depending on the type of washing machine you have, you may need to remove any excess fur from your items before tossing them into the machine. Some washers and dryers like the Maytag^® Pet Pro Laundry System have features that help remove pet hair while the cycle is running, so be sure to check your model-specific owner’s manual before starting the laundry. You may also need to take steps to remove pet hair from your washer or dryer once the laundry is done.

If you have a dog or a cat that uses their own bed, chances are they’ve been shedding and drooling in it. If you haven’t been cleaning your pet’s bed or other bedding every two to three weeks, as recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Pet Day is a great excuse to take on this task. Cleaning your pet’s bed is important for helping to keep allergies at bay in addition to helping prevent the possible spread of fleas, mites or other germs. It’s recommended to use a mild detergent that is pet-safe and free from ingredients like dyes or fragrances.

While some animal owners may not regularly wash their pets’ food dishes, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends washing them after each use. If you reuse your dog or cat’s food bowl or leave their water bowl untouched for extended periods of time, now is a good time to clean it with a dishwasher like the Maytag^® Third Rack Dishwasher with Pet Pro Sanitization cycle, which uses high temperatures to wash and sanitize those grimy pet bowls. Check to make sure each dish is dishwasher safe before determining whether it’s best to wash it with soap and warm water versus putting it in the dishwasher

Although this day is meant to celebrate our furry friends, National Pet Day is a great excuse to remove pet dander and residual pet smells from your own clothes, bedding or other areas of the house like rugs. Remember to take proper steps to remove pet hair in advance if your washer requires it and to remove pet hair from the washer and dryer when you’re done.

Of course, celebrating National Pet Day should also include time to celebrate, so once you’re done tackling the pet bowls and laundry, why not take a break and bring your dog to the park, give your cat some treats, or just simply sit on the couch and snuggle?