TRUE STORY!
We just had our dryer vent professionally cleaned and watched in absolute horror at the amount of lint and dust that was blown out—resembling mounds of dirty snow. The technician told us that if you have a dog or a cat, you should have your dryer vent cleaned more frequently because of the amount of fur that is collected. Excess accumulation of pet hair in a dryer vent can restrict airflow, decreasing your dryer’s efficiency and increasing the risk of a FIRE!
Manufacturers recommend dryer vent systems be inspected and cleaned once a year. However, if you live in a home with multiple pets it is advisable you check more often. If you see an excessive amount of pet hair collected in the lint trap/screen or if pet hair remains on clothing after a drying cycle, the build-up may be getting excessive and dangerous!