I think it's safe to say that people who own dogs usually have a policy about whether the dog is an inside dog, or an outside dog. In climate extremes, dogs tend to get inside a bit more than in moderate climate zones. Tucson, Arizona is definitely an instance of the extreme, and so even dogs decreed to live outdoors get to spend a lot of time indoors – living with the family. Choosing to live with a dog does not mean that your house has to look and/or smell like a dog house. If you're like me, you don't want to spend your entire day cleaning up after Fido. Here's what I've learned about how to clean up in the quickest (and cheapest, by the way) manner possible.

1. (Don't underestimate this one!) Stop the Fur From Flying.
Brush your dog daily. This is especially important if you have more than one dog, You'll be awed at how spending a mere five minutes a day brushing your dog cuts down on all that hair [literally] floating around your home. Daily brushing also gets rid of dry, flaky skin (a real problem in the desert) by distributing natural oils through your dog's coat. You'll notice that your dog looks and smells better, also. And since most dogs love being brushed it, or can quickly be taught to love it, brushing counts as quality time with your dog. (Bathing your dog is an excellent way to keep your house clean. Check with your veterinarian about how often your particular breed should be bathed in Tucson's arid, desert climate.)

2. Making Dust Bunnies Disappear - FAST
When you want to get rid of hair in a hurry, reach for the new Swiffer cleaners from Proctor & Gamble. It works much better than a regular broom. These disposable little cloths grab onto hair, dirt, and dust quickly – instead of simply moving it like brooms. When you're done, just throw away the cloth.

Lint rollers are also another must-have. Keep a couple around the house if you need to get hair off clothing or furniture in a hurry. The large diameter rolls are best for this.

3. Use Common Household Items
Baking soda is truly a miracle when it comes to getting rid of all odors – and pet odors are no exception. Sprinkle it around on your carpet, and then just let it sit for a couple of hours. Now, just vacuum it up. You'll notice the room smells much, much better. It will also keep your vacuum from smelling bad.

Homemade air freshener can easily and cheaply be made by adding ¼ cup of baking soda to water. Pour it into a spray bottle, shake, and spray. Baking soda absorbs the odor, leaving the area smelling fresh. If you like fragrance, add a couple drops of essential oils, vanilla extract, or even cinnamon for variety.

Another quick, easy, cheap air freshening method is to spray white vinegar into the air. As the vinegar smell dissipates, so do the offensive doggie odors.

One of my favorites is to put a fabric softener sheet in a small, unsealed envelope, and then put that envelope under the sofa or chair cushion where your furry friend likes to hang out. This is a simple way to keep the area from smelling like a dog house.

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