CHENNAI: There's a board at my vet's clinic which reads: 'No outfit is complete without dog hair.'
It's a beautiful line. But the reality isn't as pretty - especially when you like black jeans. Luckily for me, for the first few years of owning Smokie, this wasn't so much of a problem because well... not to be racist but, the bitch (not a temperament reference) is black.
Then came doggie number two who sheds like a monster and about half a dozen cats courtesy my mother in-law (they sit around her like a halo) and you can only imagine the extent of the fur factor.
These days I avoid wearing black to say the least - it shows off fur the most. And despite my best efforts, everyone seems immune to the state of affairs but me!
Also have you ever noticed how famous pet owners never seem to have this problem? They always look uber groomed, no fur, no fuss, just sharp.
I once asked designer Sidney Sladen (who has not one but several dogs) to share his secret. And he introduced me to the 'lint roller' that works like a charm, for my jeans and bedspread at least.
Since then, I've discovered a few other ways to keep the fur at bay:
- Don't Sit Down:
Silly? Perhaps. Effective? You can bet your bottom on it. The next time you don't want a pair of jeans or kurta covered in fur just before you leave the house - put it on... and leave the house!
- Get a Booty Cover:
If you must sit, and this is likely if the person picking you up is known to be tardy, fashion a cover for your behind using anything from newspaper to a pillow case. The idea is to create a separator between you and the fur.
- Brush, brush, brush:
Brush your dog regularly (outdoors). If it's a cat - do not try this. Instead, consider an easy access cover for your lap that you can put on when your kitty has the urge to sit on you.
- Roll, Wipe, Repeat:
Stock up on lint rollers or even wet sponges are an option to remove fur on your clothing or sofa
- Try Duct Tape: When the washing machine fails you - try this. Wrap duct tape around a paint roller or an old hair dryer and swivel your way to fur-freedom.