Veterinary Assistant how-to

How to Clean a Kennel

Clean kennels prevent disease.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Clean kennels prevent disease. In short: move; remove; scrub, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Move the animal safely.

  2. Remove waste and bedding.

  3. Scrub with detergent.

  4. Apply disinfectant for the label contact time.

  5. Rinse and dry.

  6. Add clean bedding and return the animal.

Safety reminders for veterinary assistants

  • Use proper restraint and muzzles
  • Wear gloves for cleaning
  • Wash hands to prevent zoonotic disease
  • Lift animals with help

Restraint · Kennel · Autoclave · Muzzle · Admission · Discharge: see the full veterinary assistant glossary.

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