Pets add an undeniable energy to any home, and a new puppy is sure to bring a lot of fun and joy to your home. In addition to all of the love and laughs, however, puppies tend to have accidents that can quickly ruin a beautiful rug or carpet if not taken care of quickly. If you’re celebrating Adopt a Dog Month in Oct. by welcoming a new dog, here are some cleaning and prevention tips to keep in mind.

How to Handle Puppy Accidents

Stain Removal Tips

Before any accident occurs, keep cleaning supplies on hand to be prepared. While many products are available on the market, your local carpet and flooring store stocks professional-quality cleaning products and can advise you on what might be best for your flooring.

After equipping yourself, keep an eye (and nose) out for pet messes. Addressing them quickly is the key to fully removing it before a stain sets in. Before attacking the area with any cleaning solutions, remove as much of the mess as possible. Scrape up any solids and blot — don’t rub — the areas of your carpet that were affected. Rubbing can spread the stain and mat the fibers, making them tougher to clean. As you blot, work from the outside of the affected carpet area inward; this helps keep the mess isolated to a smaller patch.

Next, apply your cleaning product. Follow the product’s directions carefully, as misusing a cleaning product could make it ineffective or damage your flooring if not used correctly. Your local carpet store professionals can help if you have any questions.

Accident Prevention

It’s best if you can prevent your new puppy from having an accident in the first place. Puppy pads are a helpful tool, but a puppy has to get used to them first. To prevent accidents and help your dog along in the potty training process, learn the signs of bathroom time. Scratching, sniffing at the floor, whining, and appearing uncomfortable are all red flags of an impending accident. If you notice these signs, try to distract the puppy to stop him or her from doing the deed. Then, move the puppy outdoors or to the puppy pad.

If you’re in need of pet-friendly flooring services or high-quality carpet cleaning products, Sigstads Flooring in Forest Lake, MN, has what you need. The company’s professional cleaning supplies can handle a variety of stains and messes, including accidents from newly adopted puppies. The business also offers a wide range of flooring services including carpet and hardwood flooring installation, rugs and runners, and bamboo flooring. Visit their website for a full list of services, or call (651) 376-3334 to speak with a representative today.