Shelter Gives a Sneak Peek of Lengthy Deep Cleaning Routine That Would Have Anyone Exhausted

Whether you have a full house of animals at home or just can't have a pet right now, there are many valid reasons why adopting a pet may not be an option. Still, that can be heartbreaking to come to terms with when you know just how many innocent animals are waiting in shelters for their perfect owners to find them. I get it!

Luckily, there are lots of ways a person can help shelter animals without actually adopting them. Donating money or pet supplies can be lifesaving to animals, but it can feel even more rewarding to actually interact with the dogs and cats who need it the most. That's why some people volunteer--and even work at--humane societies and animal shelters. Still, it's important to consider all aspects of the job, including the less glamorous tasks. So when Middleburg, Florida's Safe Animal Shelter posted a behind-the-scenes look at their deep cleaning routine on December 27, their viewers looked at the job in a whole different way.

Wow! After watching this @safe.animal.shelt video, I'll never look at cleaning up after my dogs the same way again. True, I have to deep clean the dog beds, blankets, and even carpet sometimes, but at least I don't spend every Tuesday like this.

Related: Dog Mom's Struggle to Keep the Couch Clean Is so Funny and Relatable

Not only do the shelter employees have to move all the dogs, deep clean the area, and then move the dogs back, but they also have to take care of the cats' area, too! It's a process that repeats weekly, as well, so at least they become pros at the cleaning routine, too. It may seem like a dreadful chore to me, but it's to them--it's part of the deal when helping shelter pets!

Are You Cleaning Your Pets' Items Frequently Enough?

Even if you only have one animal at home, it should come as no surprise that a little cleaning can go a long way in keeping pets (and people!) feeling healthy and happy. Dogs and cats can feel stressed in non-ideal environments, too, and everyone deserves to have a space where they can stretch out and truly relax, don't you think?

Additionally, it can be a major hit to your pet's health if their personal items, like their food and water bowls, aren't cleaned regularly. Bacteria can build up in either place in a matter of hours, which is why the FDA recommends cleaning these items more frequently than most pet owners actually do. In fact, a 2022 study revealed that very few dog owners were even aware of--let alone following--safe pet food storage guidelines, including cleaning. Ideally, you should clean your animals' food and water bowls on a daily basis!

The pros at this Florida animal shelter are setting a great example for pet owners and adopters when it comes to keeping up with cleaning. It's a fantastic reminder as to why we do the chores--for the love, health, and happiness of our pets.

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