There’s been a lot of rain recently here in the Midwest.  Three dogs mixed with a good thunderstorm means muddy paw prints everywhere!  They track it in through the backdoor, past the kitchen, and now in the livingroom and perhaps even on the couch.  Enough already!

I know that some people keep rags at the door to wipe their paws as they enter back into the house. Sure this method works, but with three dogs it’s not feasible for my house.  Here’s what I do.  And best of all it works like a charm.

Purchase a bale of straw and spread it all over the muddiest areas in your yard.  For me that’s the area right around the deck especially at the base.  One bale is enough for the space I’m covering. That’s it.  Your done and no more muddy paw prints marking up the floors. You can also use cedar chips but if you have a big area to cover that can get costly.

As far as the grass growing back in those high traffic muddy areas, no worries.  I usually go through two bales of straw throughout the Winter to Spring transition and the grass always grows back.  You can always throw some grass seed down.

So, are you willing to spend roughly $6. for a little peace of mind?