Dog owners prepare for messy dogs with spring conditions arriving

It’s nearly impossible these days to take your furry friend out for a walk and not have them return covered in filth.

Whether it’s a massive puddle, an area of mud or maybe even a little bit of both, dogs will find a way to come back soaked.

Dean Grieman was out for a stroll with his dog Murphy on Thursday and says it’s good to be as prepared as you can for when it’s time to return home.

“We have towels at every entrance, so we wipe him down pretty good when he comes in,” Grieman said. “Murphy’s pretty good around the house, for sure. He doesn’t shed at all, so that’s nice.”

Grieman says the key is trying to avoid all the major puddles and spots that could create the biggest messes.

Coralie Bahnman and her dog Watson use some of the same strategies.

“In the vehicle, I usually bring lots of towels and lots of blankets to bring him here,” Bahnman said. “At home, I usually bring him into the shower and wash off his feet, which he doesn’t like very much, but he gets by.”

Bahnman says it can be a big commitment to take care of a dog, but it’s always worth it in the end despite the messes at this time of year.

Derek Stewart tries to take his dog Cooper out as often as possible and signifies the exercise component for young dogs.

“He was a COVID dog so he never got a chance to get socialized the way you typically could socialize a dog,” Stewart said. “I took him under my wing and we go out every day and have lots of fun together.”

Stewart says the mess is unavoidable and people should know what they’re getting into at this time of year.

“Understand that you may come home dirtier than you left,” Stewart said with a smile. “The dog doesn’t care so you can’t be too fussy either.”

Stewart advises people should wear appropriate clothing and give their dogs baths to maintain a clean home when returning from a walk.