There is not much we don't love about our dogs, but there are a few responsibilities pet owners would get rid of if given a chance. Perhaps cleaning up after your dog has gotten sick occupies the top spot on that list. The incident is rarely an indicator of a more serious problem for your companion, but a dried vomit stain could spell disaster for your carpet.

It's essential that you remove the vomit on your carpet as quickly as possible. If it has a chance to sink deeply into the fibers, the discoloration and the odor are more likely to be permanent.

Many online cleaning tips insist the best way to clean up dog vomit from carpet is with a homemade cleaner. A spray bottle of diluted white vinegar might not work hard enough to get your carpet back to its original color, while dish soap will leave behind a residue that will attract future dirt if it is not completely extracted. Club soda is another popular option but won't help much for ground-in, sticky stains. On the other hand, a solution higher than 6% hydrogen peroxide might do too much and is very likely to aggressively lighten your carpet.

Small baking soda or cornstarch particles can cause permanent damage to both your carpet and your vacuum cleaner. Since these powders are so fine, remnants can clog the pores of your vacuum's bag or HEPA filter. This can drastically reduce the suction power and wreak havoc on your vacuum's engine.

Lastly, do not use hot water or a steam carpet cleaner to remove a vomit stain, as the heat will set the stain-causing compounds.

Simple Green Advanced Dog Bio-Boost Stain & Odor Remover contains powerful, natural microorganisms and enzymes to eliminate severe odors and messes that lodge deep into carpet fibers and padding. It easily removes pet stains and unpleasant odors from carpet, upholstery, bedding, laundry, crates, carriers, and more. It can even improve or remove old or set-in stains and odor.

Directions for Cleaning Dog Vomit from Carpet:

To ensure color-fastness, spot test on a small inconspicuous area of the surface to be cleaned. You do not need to wear gloves when using Simple Green Advanced Dog Bio-Boost Stain & Odor Remover, but feel free to use some when cleaning up vomit to avoid touching the mess with bare hands.

1. Remove the solids. Use a piece of cardboard or a couple of dry paper towels to pick up the bulk of the mess. Be careful not to press anything deeper into the carpet fibers.
2. Soak up excess liquid. Blot and dab the spot with a dry cloth or paper towels until you can't absorb any more moisture. Use a clean section of your towel each time.
3. Spray cleaner. Saturate the stained area with Simple Green Advanced Dog Bio-Boost Stain & Odor Remover.
4. Scrub. Gently scrub the area with a clean cloth or soft-bristled brush. Work from the outside edges of the vomit stain inward. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this will push the stain deeper into the carpet.
5. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
6. Blot clean. Blot with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel.
7. Dry. Allow the area to dry. Try to prevent your pet and other people from walking on the cleaned area until it is completely dry.
8. Vacuum, if desired. Once the stain is gone and the area is dry, vacuum the carpet to restore softness and evenness.

TIP: For directions on how to clean up dog vomit on wood flooring, click here.