Pet Allergies
As a responsible pet owner, you want to make sure your home is a safe space for your furry friend. However, it can seem like there are countless items to tackle to fully pet-proof your home. Luckily, our team at Voyager Harness is here to help.
In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide for pet-proofing your home and discuss some of the most important considerations when creating a safe space for your pet.
Start Slow
Pet proofing your entire home can feel like an overwhelming task. The good news is it doesn’t all have to be done at once. The best way to prepare your home for a new pet is to start slow and create a small area where you know your pet will be safe. Pet crates are wonderful for keeping your pet out of trouble for short periods of time and can be an excellent way to create a fast and easy pet-proof space.
Over time, you can gradually work on other parts of your house so you can let your pet roam freely. Until you are comfortable with your pet-proofing process, it’s important to monitor your pet closely and limit their access to areas that may not be safe. Baby gates are a great way to create safety barriers and keep certain areas off-limits.
Recognize Potential Toxins
Unfortunately, many household items can be dangerous for your pet, and it’s critical to know what to look for when identifying potential toxins in your home. Cleaning supplies are one of the most common household items that can cause problems for your pet.
Chemicals such as bleach can be dangerous for your pet to touch or inhale. You’ll also need to be mindful of toilet bowl cleaner that your pet could ingest. When purchasing cleaning products, look for pet-friendly options and never leave cleaning products unattended. Additionally, you should consider keeping your pet out of the room if you’re doing any heavy cleaning.
Some other important toxins to be aware of include medications and toxic treats such as chocolate. It’s essential to keep these items safely secured and out of your pet’s reach. You’ll also want to research the plants in your home and ensure they’re not a danger to your pet’s health. Some crucial plants to avoid include Lilies, Sago Palm, Philodendrons, and Daffodils.
Check Gates and Doors
A lost pet is every pet owner’s worst nightmare. The first step in reducing your pet’s risk of accidental escapes is to check all windows and doors to ensure your home is properly secured. In many cases, pets will accidentally escape when they rush the door to meet new guests. To avoid this, consider using a dog gate or other barrier to reduce your pet’s access to the primary entrances of your home.
If you have a fenced-in backyard, make a habit of checking the gate every time your dog goes outside. When gates are accidentally left open, it can take a while before owners notice their pet is missing.
Secure Your Trash
Trash cans can be a treasure trove for mischievous pets. Unfortunately, consuming trash is not good for your pet’s health and can cause significant problems. To reduce the risk of dumpster diving, you’ll need to ensure your trash is secure and limit your pet’s access.
An excellent way to do this is to invest in a trash can with an automatic lid. Keep in mind that some pets are resourceful and will still find ways to get into the garbage. If this becomes a problem with your pet, consider keeping your trash in a closed room or cabinet. You can also use child-proof locks as an additional security measure.
Keep Electrical Wires Out of Reach
If your pet enjoys chewing or nibbling on objects, you’ll need to take some extra precautions when it comes to your electrical wires. Excessive chewing can cause damage to your belongings and severe harm to your pet.
Electrocution is a serious concern for curious pets, and it’s essential to keep electrical cords out of reach. If you are unable to limit your pet’s access to cables and wires, you may need to consider cord protectors. These can provide an additional layer of protection and reduce your pet’s risk of harm.
Summary
When welcoming a new pet, you’ll want to ensure your home is a pet-friendly space. Following these steps can be an excellent way to get started. If you have additional questions about your pet’s health or safety, it’s always a good idea to contact your veterinarian and discuss your concerns.
At Voyager Harness, we are proud to be your pet’s source for excellent walking gear. However, we are also committed to improving your pet’s health at home. We hope these tips will provide some guidance as you work on pet-proofing your home and create a smooth transition for your new friend.