You love them. How could you not? They are your best friends; members of the family. Unfortunately, our best friends tend to make messes all over the place, especially in their younger years. These disgusting stains are tough to get rid of, especially if they are allowed to set. The thing about pet urine is, aside from the odor, the liquid acts similarly to bleach. If allowed to set, it can permanantly discolor your carpet, or any other textile surfaces your pet feels like... making their own.

What's the answer? Honestly, there may not be a complete answer. The color loss is not reversible, unless the area is patched or dyed (which can be costly). Fortunately, many track homes are using lighter colored carpets, which helps the color loss factor, but does nothing for the odor. Professional carpet cleaners can possibly eliminate or neutralize these stains and odors. Here are some tips to look for when you're having this service done:

1. Did they show you the infected areas with a UV blacklight? This type of light is truly    the only way to see the stains, especially in light-colored carpet. If you have a darker carpet and can see the stain, then you can bet the area is permenantly discolored.

2. Are they treating topically, or are they treating all the way to the sub-floor? If a company knows what they are doing, they will treat all the way to the sub-floor. Unfortunately, even the most skilled and experienced technicians may not be able to completely rid your carpet or furniture of urine stains. If you see where your pet has had an accident, and the color of the carpet has changed, you can count on that area being discolored forever... unless the area is dyed or patched. However, with proper treatment, the odor should be temporary.