With pets, pee happens, often happens on carpets. But there’s no need to panic. There are several methods of removing dog urine—and the distinctive odor it creates—from carpets without using chemicals that may be harmful to you or your pup.

How to Clean Dog Urine

Jothan Hatch, the national training director for Chem-Dry carpet cleaning, has a puppy named Koda who’s still perfecting potty training. Sometimes, when he gets over-excited, he “leaks,” says Hatch. Fortunately, Hatch knows a bit about rescuing rugs.

“Your best defense as soon as you see an accident is to blot as much as you can with towels,” he said. “Then, put a few drops of green dish detergent and a little water on the area, place a towel over it and step on it so it absorbs as much as possible.”

If you notice a wet spot that may have happened earlier in the day, sprinkle it with baking soda and let it sit overnight, said Annie B. Bond, green living expert and author of Clean and Green. After the patch dries overnight, spray it with distilled white vinegar and don’t be concerned if the carpet bubbles a bit while the compounds interact to clean.

How to Remove Dog Urine Smell from Carpets

For more stubborn stains and aromas, there are several green enzymatic cleaners you can find to spray on your carpet or, if you have older stains to tackle, consider renting a carpet-cleaning machine from a local store. Rinse the tank out well before use and don’t use the chemical-heavy cleanser that’s often sold with the rental. Instead, Bond recommends using a natural cleaner or a combination of white vinegar and water. Call Choice for tips & service.. 912-354-3067. Upholstery Cleaning