The winter season is one of the busiest times for pet boarding facilities, with many pet parents traveling and entrusting their beloved furry friends to professional care. While ensuring pets are well-fed and comfortable, it’s vital to prioritize hygiene—especially when it comes to feeding bowls. Clean bowls are not just about appearances; they are a cornerstone of preventing illness, including highly contagious diseases like canine influenza.
The Role of Hygiene in Pet Health
Keeping food and water bowls clean is essential for maintaining pet health. Illness-causing bacteria and viruses can thrive on improperly cleaned surfaces, posing a serious risk to the pets in your care. During the busy holiday season, when facilities are at capacity, the chances of disease spreading increase significantly.
According to the Ohio State University Center for Clinical and Translational Science, commercial dishwashers do not always reach temperatures high enough to kill all viruses, including influenza. This highlights the need for alternative solutions that guarantee proper sanitation.
Canine Influenza: A Serious Threat
Canine influenza, or dog flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that can spread through:
- Direct Contact: Dogs licking, nuzzling, or playing together.
- Airborne Particles: Coughs and sneezes.
- Contaminated Objects: Food and water bowls, toys, clothing, or human hands.
An outbreak in your facility can have devastating consequences, including potential closures for weeks and significant financial losses. David Pearsall, an expert in insuring doggy daycare and boarding centers, emphasizes the high costs associated with disease outbreaks, ranging from $10,000 to $80,000 depending on the size and duration of the shutdown.
Preventing Illness with Disposable Solutions
The Kinn Kleanbowl offers an innovative solution to these challenges. Designed to replace traditional food and water bowls, Kleanbowls are:
- Disposable: Eliminating the need for dishwashing, which may not kill all pathogens.
- Eco-Friendly: Made from recyclable and biodegradable materials, they align with sustainability goals.
- Hygienic: Prevent the buildup of bacteria and viruses, reducing the risk of disease transmission.
Switching to Kleanbowls can significantly lower the chances of spreading illnesses like canine influenza in your facility, ensuring both the pets and your reputation remain protected.
Educating Your Clients
Pet parents play a crucial role in maintaining their pets’ health, even when they’re away. Share these tips with your clients to help them understand the importance of bowl hygiene:
- Use Disposable Bowls at Home: Especially during flu season or after playdates.
- Wash Hands Frequently: After touching pets, their food, or their belongings.
- Stay Vaccinated: Ensure pets are up-to-date on vaccinations for canine influenza and other illnesses.
Encourage them to ask about the measures your facility takes to ensure a clean, safe environment for their pets.
Learn More About Canine Influenza
For an in-depth look at how canine influenza affects pet care facilities and actionable advice for prevention, revisit our interview with David Pearsall where he discusses the seriousness of canine influenza. David’s insights can save facilities thousands of dollars and ensure peace of mind for pet care providers and pet parents alike.
A Healthy Holiday Season for All
As we head into the holiday boarding season, let’s prioritize health and hygiene to ensure pets stay safe, happy, and illness-free. By adopting innovative solutions like Kleanbowls and educating clients about best practices, we can work together to prevent the spread of diseases like canine influenza.
Ready to make a change? Visit kinninc.com to learn more about Kleanbowls and how they can revolutionize hygiene in your facility.
