Having a pet at home is a rewarding experience that can bring joy to your family. But they must be living beings, and while they may be used to the same environment in which you live, that doesn’t mean they automatically know how to stay safe. Pet-proofing your home is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner and ensuring the safety of your fur babies.
This guide will help you understand what areas need attention and suggest how to best protect them.
Common hazards
Before searching for those adorable bernedoodle puppies for sale, you’ll need to get pet-proofing. The first step in pet-proofing your home is identifying potential pet hazards inside and outside. Common hazards for pets range from household items such as cords, small objects, and cleaning products to outdoor dangers like toxins from plants or animals.
Some of the most common household plants that are poisonous to animals include; lilies, dieffenbachia, and poinsettias. But many more plants can be harmful to your fur babies. Make sure to research the plants in your home, and consider replacing any potentially harmful varieties with pet-safe options.
Inside the home
Once you’ve identified potential hazards inside your home, it’s time to start pet-proofing.
Here are some tips for keeping your furry friends safe:
Block off access to cords, wires, and other small objects your pet can chew on or get tangled in. You can use cord covers or tuck them away where they cannot be reached.
Secure any household chemicals out of reach. Ensure any potentially toxic items are stored in a locked cabinet or a room inaccessible to pets.
Move any fragile items, such as vases and figurines, higher up so they cannot be knocked over.
Put latches on kitchen cabinets so your pet cannot get in and potentially eat something they shouldn’t.
Outside the home
When pet-proofing your yard and outdoor space, it’s essential to consider any potential hazards.
Here are some tips:
Make sure your fence is secure and that there are no gaps or holes that a pet can escape through.
Keep all pesticides, fertilisers, and weed killers locked in a shed or garage.
Check for any poisonous plants in your garden, such as nightshade, oleander, or ivy. If they are present, consider removing them entirely or putting them out of reach of pets.
Be aware of wild animals that may roam in your area, such as coyotes or raccoons. If you spot any, contact a wildlife control service to have them removed safely.
Tips on cat-keeping
If you’re a cat owner, you should take some extra steps to ensure their safety outside of your home.
Install a pet door so your cat can come and go as needed. This will also save you time from having to open the door for them each time they want to go out.
Plant catnip in your garden or around the perimeter of your yard. This will give cats something stimulating to do and won’t harm any other plants or animals in the area.
Consider putting up a fence designed explicitly for cats if outdoor cats like to wander far from home. This way, they’ll still be able to explore but remain safe within a designated perimeter.
Protect the interior of your home too
You must also ensure you invest in durable furniture and pet-safe materials. Cats and dogs often scratch or chew on furniture when bored or anxious, so investing in sturdy pieces will help protect your furniture from damage.
Additionally, look for pet-friendly fabrics such as leather or vinyl that won’t attract dirt or fur. Another tip is adding cushions or blanket covers for furniture your pet loves to cuddle on. Make sure to vacuum regularly and spot-clean any pet accidents that occur.
When pet-proofing your home, don’t forget about the flooring. Hardwood floors may be more aesthetically pleasing but they can be challenging to keep clean with cats and dogs. Consider adding rugs or mats to help prevent slips and falls while providing extra padding for their paws.
Additionally, look for pet-safe cleaners that won’t harm your pets. Finally, consider investing in tile or vinyl flooring for areas with high traffic from pets.
To that end
Pet-proofing your home is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner and ensuring that your furry friends are always safe and secure. By inspecting for potential hazards inside and outside the house, you can rest assured that your pets will remain happy and healthy in their environment. With these tips, you can ensure your fur baby lives in a safe and comfortable space. Pet-proofing doesn’t have to be daunting – follow these simple steps, and you’ll ensure that your home is a haven for your beloved pet.
