Kennel Cleaning Protocols

The cleaning of animal areas serves a twofold purpose: it prevents the spread of infectious diseases and also presents a facility that looks and smells clean. With animal health being the primary concern, there should be a well-developed cleaning plan that is periodically updated to create the best regimen possible.

  1. Areas to Be Disinfected

    • Cleaning protocols focus mainly on the runs and pens, however there are other areas that need to be included in any comprehensive cleaning protocol plan. In addition to the runs and pens, walls, gates, doors and central walkways also need to be maintained, according to the UC Davis website. A number of additional indoor areas such as quarantine and isolation spaces, surgical and medical, treatment, grooming, intake, training and visiting rooms need frequent routine cleaning protocols. Any equipment that the animals come in direct contact with such as transport cages and carriers, bedding, toys and dishes also need to be properly disinfected on a regular basis. It is also imperative to clean tools such as mops and poop scoopers as a part of any cleaning protocol.

    Cleaning Products

    • Different types of cleaning products need to be used according to the areas being disinfected, according to the ShelterMedicine website. A disinfectant (a chemical that kills microorganisms) soap or detergent and a strong degreaser (to deal with more saturated areas of greasy debris such as layers of dried on body oils) should be included in a cleaning regimen. Most industrial disinfectants are based on accelerated hydrogen peroxide (AHP), which has a "broad-spectrum sanitizing claim" against vegetative bacteria, according to the Virox website. The proper procedure with an AHP is to sanitize all surfaces including any bowls or utensils using the solution, wait 30 seconds and reapply the AHP solution.

    Suggested Protocol

    • A clear step-by-step procedural routine should be established and maintained when cleaning kennel areas, according to the Virox website. Choosing the correct tools and cleaning products is the first step. Thoroughly wash your hands and wear gloves during the entire cleaning process. All litter (paper, food and floor coverings) should first be removed or destroyed prior to cleaning and disinfecting the kennel. Clean walls before floors and complete pen cleaning before doing hallways.