When you have children, you plan ahead by making your home safe for the new arrival. The same should hold true when getting a new dog. They are very curious about everything. As a new pet parent, you have concerns about their safety, plus the safety of your home. You need to rest assured that your dog will be safe, whether you are home or away.
In order to thoroughly pet-proof your home, you need to get down on all fours to see things from your pet’s viewpoint. This includes the entire home, garage and yard where your dog will have free reign. Look at everything for possible hazards to your pet. If it looks like it could be interesting to a dog, it needs to be moved out of reach. Notice and safeguard anything that is sharp, electrical, breakable or toxic.
Some specific steps you can take in keeping your dog and home safe when you are home or away is to be sure all cabinets are protected so there is no easy access. All foods, perishables, cleaners, insecticides, soaps and any toxic item should be in those locked cabinets. That should include tools, sharp objects and medications. Do not leave any food on counter tops or kitchen tables, anywhere that your dog can jump on a chair and snatch it. Trash cans should also be the type that is secured and latched shut to prevent access, which is harmful for your dog and a mess for your home.
Keep toilet lids closed so a small pet does not jump in and drown. You should have plenty of fresh water available for your pet so it does not need to venture to the open toilet. Bathroom cleaners and accessories should be out of reach.
If you also have children with small toy and game parts, have them secure from the dog. Designate a particular room for toys only and keep that area fenced off from your pet. Secure all electrical wires from lamps, televisions, recorders, telephones and stereos out of reach and protected. Remove all valuables like knick-knacks to higher ground. A wagging tail or other curious move can knock them over and break them, putting your pet in danger of getting cut and injured. Also lock up all sewing craft items.
Aside from things to remove, you want to check any areas where a dog may get in to hide; he may be able to get in but get hurt trying to get out. Be cautious of heat and air vents that could trap a small paw. Rooms that are sacred to you or otherwise hazardous should be off-limits to your dog with doors kept shut. In fact, when you are not at home, be sure all doors are closed except for one area where you have provided a cozy bed, safe dog toys or puzzles, food and plenty of water.
One common thing to remember is plants. Many house plants can be hazardous to pets if ingested. If unsure, you can call your veterinarian to find out if your plant may be toxic for your dog. Move the plants to higher shelves or hanging so that your dog does not have access to them.
In keeping your dog and your home safe, you will want to safeguard your yard where your dog frequents. If you provide a doggy door for your dog to go in and out on his own, provide a safe area for your dog that is free from toxic plants, garden ornaments, fertilizers or anything else not good to eat. This safe potty zone should be fenced well-enough so no one can come it or your dog cannot get out, putting him in danger of getting hit by a car. If you choose to give your dog entry to the entire yard that is properly fenced-in, you will need to do your homework and plant a pet-friendly garden and flowers, fully natural, without using any chemicals.
A little effort goes a long way in protecting your dog and your home from dangers that lurk; things that could bring your precious pup grave jeopardy not to mention the menace to all the personal things you love in and around your home.
Lauren Colman serves as the digital marketer for the dog boarding and dog sitting community at Rover.com and is a true dog lover at heart. Lauren spends her days at the office with her dogs Squish and Brando by her side. For more dog tips, you can follow Rover.com on Twitter @roverdotcom or on their blog, Dog Boarding News.