You’ve heard of baby proofing your home, but how about pet-proofing? Animals can be naturally curious and typically want to explore areas where they should not go in your home.
When pet-proofing your home get down to your pet’s level. When you are on your hands and knees you will have a better view of your house from your pet’s perspective. You may find cords that you thought were tucked away but peek through behind a couch or an area where your vacuum can’t reach but your pet can.
With this in mind look around your house and take notes of areas that could be dangerous to your animal or that need to be changed to better protect them from harm. Here are just a few tips on how to protect your pets in some of the common areas within your house.
Living Room/Family Room
- Put away any decorations on your table that can easily be knocked over and broken by a curious cat
- Cover all heating and air vents
- Place dangling wires out of reach of your pets
- Move houseplants out of reach so your animals don’t chew or digest something that can harm them
- Pick up children’s toys and games so no small pieces or other objects are digested by your pet
- Use special vented lids on candles to avoid your pet interacting with an open flame
Kitchen
- Make sure trashcans are covered or in cabinets out of paws reach
- Use childproof latches to stop any curious pet from opening cabinets
- Keep all foods, even those not harmful, out of reach of your pets
Bathroom
- Place medicines, cleaners and other chemicals in a secure cabinet away from pets
- Keep the toilet lid closed to prevent drowning or drinking harmful chemicals
- Keep all small items such as hair ties, ribbons or other accessories in a closed container or drawer
- Make sure items such as curling irons can cool down in a safe space away from your pet
Bedroom
- Keep shoes and laundry secure behind closed doors so pets don’t eat buttons or strings
- Move medications, lotions or cosmetics away from readily accessible areas such as a nightstand
- Keep wires out of reach to avoid chewing or electrical burns
Garage
- Move all chemicals to high shelves or place in closed cabinets
- Clean all antifreeze from the floor and driveway because this is highly poisonous and can be lethal for your animals
- Keep all sharp tools out of reach to avoid accidental cuts or lacerations
With just a few adjustments to your regular routines, you and your pets can feel safer and happier in your home.
