Pet-Proofing Spaces to Protect Curious Critters

It’s so exciting when you bring a new pet into your home! But much like baby proofing for a human child, setting the stage with a safe environment for your curious critter will be critical. Animals, in particular puppies, kittens and new pets, are an expert at finding trouble around every corner – chewing on wires, nibbling on toxic plants or slurping up cleaning supplies. 

A safe home provides peace of mind for you and a happy, healthy home for your pet to live and play in. Let’s go step by step through the important points for pet-proofing your place, transforming potentially harmful environments into ones of harmonious, hazard-free living.

Locate and Lock it Down, Hazards in the Home

Such a number of everyday objects represent serious hazards.

  • Chemicals & Cleaners: All household cleaners, detergents, both human and pet medications, and automobile fluids should be stored in upper, locked cabinets. (Parenting latches also work for pets.)
  • Toxic Foods: Keep human foods, like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, avocado, xylitol (ingredient in sugar free gum), and alcohol, out of their reach. Familiarize everyone in the household with this hazards.
  • Small Items: Anything small enough to be swallowed or choked on (coins, batteries, buttons, figurines, small toys, hair clips, rubber bands) should be kept out of reach. Batteries, however, are special culprits.
  • Trash Cans: Make sure the lids on trash cans are heavy and pets have a hard time knocking them over or getting into them trying to eat leftover food or toxic garbage.

Control Electrical Cords & Receptacles

Pet Feature CHOMPING ON ELECTRICAL CORDS Chewing on electrical cords is a common and potentially lethal curiosity for pets.

  • Hide or Cover Up: Use cord covers, cord conduits or spikes to cover and protect cords. Tie up any excessively long cords with zip ties.
  • Unplug When Not Using: Unplug all appliances when not in use, especially those with accessible cords.
  • Bitter Sprays: Pet-safe, bitter-tasting sprays can be used as a deterrent for chewers that will try everything once.

Review Houseplants and Garden

  • Research Toxicity: Before introducing any new plant to your home, find out whether or not it’s toxic to your specific pet. Typical offenders include lilies (especially in cats), sago palm, azaleas, tulips, and oleander.
  • Elevate Out of Range: If you have poisonous plants in your house, place them high up in spots that are difficult for dogs and cats to reach via jumping or climbing.
  • Garden Fencing: If you have an outdoor garden, particularly with any potentially poisonous plants, then it might be a good idea to fence it off.

Lock the Doors and Windows and Balcony

Prevent escapes and falls.

  • Window Screens: Make sure all window screens are tight and without holes.
  • Balcony/Deck Barriers: Ensure that balconies, decks, and high windows are equipped with types of netting or barriers which stop animals from falling.They should be sized to accommodate cats as well as small dogs.
  • Door Watch: Be aware when you open and close outside doors. Think about double-gating entrances for fast exits.

Wrapping Up

Pet proofing your home is one of those proactive measures to guarantee the safety of your precious pet. Systematically attending to potential dangers, from securing household cleaners and handling cords, to vetting houseplants and reinforcing exits, you will provide a haven where your curious critter can flourish. This thoughtful design reduces risks and lets your pet to spread its wings and flourish confidently, providing you with priceless peace of mind. Some people find thrills and fun on the web, exploring things like real money casinos online and other online experiences, but looking out for your pet’s best interest is a slightly more subtle form of comfort and reassurance.