Nothing compares to the warmth and comfort of being at home. But for many dogs across America, this feeling is foreign.

According to The Humane Society, between six and eight million dogs and cats enter shelters each year. Plus, almost three million healthy shelter pets are not adopted annually, and only about 30 percent of pets in homes come from shelters or rescues.

These sobering facts are what served as the inspiration the Coldwell Banker Homes for Dogs Project. After more than 100 years of helping people find homes, the real estate company extended its mission to man’s best friend with its “Homes for Dogs Project.” By partnering with Adopt-a-Pet.com, North America’s largest non-profit pet adoption website, the Coldwell Banker network has helped to find more than 20,000 dogs their furever homes.

To increase awareness of the effort, Coldwell Banker has focused its latest advertising campaign called “Old Dog New Dog” to capture the heartfelt story of an agent giving back to her community by helping shelter animals find homes through the “Homes for Dogs Project.”

The commercial features rescue dogs, such as Max, who was adopted in 2014 after being spotted on Adopt-a-Pet.com. Before he was put up for adoption, Max was picked up as a stray and delivered to a “high kill” shelter in San Bernadino, CA. The shelter only keeps dogs for five days before it puts them down, and after Max had been at the shelter for four days, a worker reached out to The Dexter Foundation, a local non-profit dog rescue and adoption agency, which quickly rescued Max and found temporary foster care for him.

“I found him on Adopt-a-Pet.com as I was looking for a dog to rescue of that sort of breed and age,” said Kelly Saffrey, Max’s current parent. “As soon as I saw his picture, I just knew he was the pet for me.”

Adopt-a-Pet.com currently has more than 15,000 shelters and rescues in its network, and it is thrilled to be partnering with Coldwell Banker.

“We share Coldwell Banker’s view that nothing turns a house into a home more quickly than the addition of a loving pet,” said Abbie Moore, executive director of Adopt-a-Pet.com. “And we are so inspired by the desire of Coldwell Banker to launch this amazing program.”

For more information on the “Homes for Dogs Project,” head to coldwellbanker.com/homesfordogs

Spring cleaning isn’t just about dusting and decluttering – it’s a yearly refresh for your entire residence. As the days get longer and brighter, now is the perfect time to assess your space, clear out what no longer serves you and start the season feeling organized and ready. You may even enjoy the process if you divvy up the tasks and take a step-by-step approach!

Whole-Home Reset

Before tackling individual rooms, begin by focusing on air quality and overall flow. This will breathe new life into your home and help boost your motivation and momentum.

• Open windows to enhance circulation
• Replace HVAC filters
• Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures and vents
• Wash windows, screens and window tracks
• Wipe baseboards, doors and door frames
• Sort through closets; donate unused items
• Vacuum and mop all floors

Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the hardest-working rooms under your roof, making it a top priority for a spring recharge. You’ll be surprised by how much a healthy scrub here will improve daily efficiency – not to mention your state of mind.

• Empty and wipe down the refrigerator (check expiration dates)
• Clean oven, stovetop and range hood
• Polish countertops and backsplash
• Organize pantry and cabinets
• Wash small appliances (coffee maker, toaster, microwave)
• Sanitize sink and garbage disposal
• Sweep and mop floors

Living Room and Common Areas

High-traffic zones collect dirt and clutter much faster than other rooms. Before you get started on this step, put misplaced items where they belong and donate unwanted objects. This will make these shared spaces instantly feel larger and more inviting.

• Dust furniture, shelves, lampshades and electronics
• Vacuum sofas and chairs (including under cushions)
• Wash throw blankets and pillow covers
• Tidy books, magazines and accent pieces
• Spot-clean walls and light-switch plates

Bedrooms

There’s no better time than spring to transform your bedroom into a peaceful sanctuary. A neat, thoughtfully arranged space leads to restful nights and a sense of calm that carries into every day.

• Wash all bedding, including comforters and mattress covers
• Flip or rotate mattresses
• Declutter nightstands and dressers
• Organize closets and drawers
• Dust furniture and décor
• Vacuum under the bed

Bathrooms

Bathrooms benefit greatly from a spring cleaning that goes beyond daily maintenance. Focusing on sanitation, order and utility – as well as décor – will leave these areas feeling rejuvenated and spa-like.

• Scrub showers, tubs, sinks and toilets
• Disinfect grout and tile
• Wash bath mats and shower curtains
• Polish countertops and cabinetry
• Toss old toiletries and expired products
• Streamline shelves and drawers

Laundry Room

The laundry room often gets overlooked, but spring cleaning here can make routine chores much more efficient. A quick reset also ensures your machines run smoothly.

• Dust off washing machine and dryer
• Empty lint trap and dryer vent
• Wipe down shelves and storage bins
• Coordinate detergents and supplies
• Mop floors

When gearing up for a spring refresh, remember that staying motivated is key. To avoid becoming overwhelmed, break tasks into manageable chunks, turn on your favorite playlist and enjoy the satisfaction of a bright and welcoming home you’ll be proud to show off!