CBL Episode 72#: Who let the Dogs Out?? Ensuring Pet Safety for your Cleaning Tech

How to Keep Pets Safe While Running a Cleaning Business: Essential Tips for Pet-Friendly Cleaners

Have you ever wondered how to keep pets safe while running a cleaning business? As a professional cleaner, you’re likely to encounter all kinds of furry, feathered, and even scaly family members during your work. In this episode of Cleaning Business Life, I, Shannon Miller, and my co-host Kimberly Gonzalez, dive into the challenges and best practices for managing pet safety during cleaning sessions.

Pets Are Family: Understanding Their Role in the Home

Pets are more than just animals; they’re beloved members of the family. I’ve had my fair share of unique pet experiences—like my dog, Max, whom I used to carry around inside my mail bag while shopping, and Sally Mae, my chicken who thinks she’s a dog! These stories may sound amusing, but they highlight the reality that professional cleaners must approach every home with respect for both the clients and their pets.

How to Ensure Pet Safety While Cleaning

1. Secure Pets Before Cleaning Begins

One of the most important things you can do is request that pet owners secure their animals before you start cleaning. Whether it’s placing them in a separate room, a crate, or outdoors, this precaution helps prevent accidents, stress, or potential bites and scratches.

2. Handling Aggressive or Anxious Pets

Some pets may be territorial or anxious around strangers, especially those entering their home with noisy vacuum cleaners and unfamiliar cleaning tools. If you notice a pet displaying aggressive behaviors—such as growling, hissing, or lunging—pause and notify the owner immediately. Never try to handle an aggressive pet yourself.

3. Safe Use of Cleaning Products Around Pets

Many common household cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful to animals. It’s crucial to:

  • Avoid toxic ingredients: Certain essential oils, like tea tree and citrus oils, can be harmful to pets. However, diluted eucalyptus oil is generally safer when used correctly.
  • Use pet-friendly cleaning solutions: Opt for non-toxic, eco-friendly, and pet-safe cleaning products to prevent respiratory issues, skin irritation, or poisoning.
  • Ventilate the space: Proper airflow reduces the risk of pets inhaling strong fumes that could be harmful.

4. Offering Specialized Pet Cleaning Services

If you frequently work in pet-friendly homes, consider offering add-on services that cater to pet owners, such as:

  • Cleaning pet bowls and food areas
  • Vacuuming pet hair from furniture and carpets
  • Sanitizing pet bedding
  • Disinfecting high-traffic pet areas

These extra services can set you apart from competitors and make your cleaning business more appealing to pet-loving clients.

Challenges of Pet-Related Cleaning Tasks

Dealing with Cat Litter Boxes

Cleaning around litter boxes can be tricky. Always clarify with clients whether they expect you to clean or scoop litter, as this isn’t typically included in standard cleaning services. If you do offer this service, ensure you’re using gloves and washing hands thoroughly afterward.

Managing Bird and Small Animal Messes

Birds and small animals, like hamsters and rabbits, can create messes with scattered food, feathers, or bedding. Some birds even enjoy flying around, which can be a challenge while vacuuming or dusting. Discuss pet containment with the owner beforehand to avoid complications.

Communicating Pet Policies with Clients

Clear communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings. Make sure to:

  • Include a pet policy in your service agreement
  • Ask about pets during your initial consultation
  • Clarify responsibilities regarding pet messes and safety precautions

By setting expectations upfront, you protect yourself, your employees, and your clients’ pets.

Listen to the full episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2155653/episodes/15349519-cbl-episode-72-who-let-the-dogs-out-ensuring-pet-safety-for-your-cleaning-techs.mp3?download=true

Final Thoughts: Running a Pet-Friendly Cleaning Business

Caring for pets while maintaining a professional cleaning service requires planning, awareness, and strong communication. By following safety protocols, using pet-friendly cleaning solutions, and offering specialized services, you can ensure both your success and the well-being of your clients’ beloved pets.

🎧 Tune in to this episode of Cleaning Business Life for more expert insights, real-life pet stories, and actionable tips to run a pet-safe cleaning business!

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