Pets are a huge part of the family so why not make sure your home is comfortable and safe for them as well. There are a handful of areas in your home that your furry friends can get into trouble. Pets can often maneuver cabinets open allowing them to get into household cleaning products or medicines. The smell and taste of antifreeze is especially tempting to dogs and cats due to the sweet smell & taste. Making sure the cabinets containing this and other household chemicals can be latched closed or are out of reach is especially important in the safety of your pet in your home.
The curious nature of pets can also cause them to crawl into tiny places in the house and get stuck. These spaces can include holes inside cabinets and behind the washer and dryer. Make sure these spaces are not easily accessible to your furry friend(s) by blocking them off with furniture or a gate, or keeping certain rooms inaccessible to them.
Dangling wires, and cords from blinds can cause strangulation or electrocution to your beloved family pet. Make sure any dangling wires or cords or any exposed wires are tied up out of reach.
Indoor plants are great decor to add to any home, but if you have pets it is a good idea to make sure that the plants you choose are not toxic. Common toxic plants are lilies, amaryllis, poinsettia, mums, and aloe vera. You can find the ASPCA’s database of Toxic and Non-toxic plants here.
Dedicate a space in your home for your pet. This will help make it less likely that they will seek out a random place in the house for refuge (like inside the dryer). A space that is hazard free, with their bed, water, and toys will ensure that your pet has a place they feel safe. Consider ramps to furniture for elderly pets and crate training for especially curious puppies.
The type of flooring you choose with a pet in the home is not only helpful for pets but for you as well. If you want to do carpet, consider a carpet that matches your pet, to mask the hair, and has a high performance rating. Lightweight dogs should be fine to walk on hardwood floors without damaging them as long as it has an adequate urethane finish. Heavier weight dogs may need a sturdier floor, such as ceramic tile.
Pets play a huge part in our families. Keeping them safe and comfortable in our home is not overly difficult and sometimes the simplest things are overlooked when it comes to pet safety.