Pet accidents, such as urine, feces and vomit, are the most common stains found on rugs. These stains are generally permanent as the face yarns are discolored almost instantly. This is especially true on natural fibers after just a few minutes of exposure. Not only does animal urine discolor rug face yarns, it can also break the dye- fiber bond and cause color migration. Animal urine is acidic and when it comes in contact with bacteria in the air, the pH shifts to alkaline. Since most wool is acid dyed, this high pH residue can break the dye/wool bond and cause the rug to bleed before, during and after cleaning. Many pet foods contain red dye, perhaps to make the food look more appetizing to the owners. If an animal becomes ill after eating, the regurgitation can leave a red stain. Your Master Rug Cleaner may or may not be able to remove this stain. Repetitive pet accidents also cause odor. Urine odors range from localized, occasional mishaps to overall contamination. In addition, animals in continuous contact with rugs can also create an odor from the transfer of fur oils. This “body odor” is very difficult to completely remove. At times, this odor is not discovered until the rug becomes wet during cleaning. The cleaning process and high humidity will exacerbate any existing odors. When you discover an animal accident on your rug, absorb as much liquid as possible using absorbent cotton or paper towels. If you do not act immediately, the stain will be permanent. Do not attempt stain removal with any consumer spotting products as they will make the stain worse. Contact Oriental Rug Cleaning Co. to professionally clean, sanitize, and deodorize your rug.