Being a pet owner can be a rewarding role. It also entails a lot of responsibilities like caring for and providing a companion animal with a safe and comfortable home. This means they have a space where they can play and rest without the risk of being injured or getting ill. It also involves the owners confidently being able to leave their four-legged companions alone at home for a short while if they need to.
But since pets are different from people, it can be challenging to know for certain if a home is a safe environment for them. Their owners may be new to the experience or may overlook critical details. Thankfully, pet owners don’t have to put their pets’ safety at risk. There are several steps they can follow to keep their homes safe for their entire family, including their furry members.
Whether you have a dog, a cat, or both at home, consider these recommendations to make your home a safe haven for them.
Create Safe Spaces for Your Pets
Designating pet-friendly areas in your home is key to both their comfort and safety. Start with providing comfortable beds or crates for your pets to rest. It prevents them from potentially sleeping in unsafe areas like under appliances or in entryways. It also offers a cozy place where they can retreat if they feel scared, like during thunderstorms or when fireworks are being set off outdoors.
If you allow your pets in your bedroom, it’s best to invest in separate bedroom furniture for yourself and for your pet. It can greatly improve your sleep quality and your furry friend’s safety. After all, letting your pet sleep on the same bed as you do may cause disturbances during the night. Their purring, snoring, or sudden movements might awaken you if you’re a light sleeper. And if you have a small pet, there’s a risk that they might fall off the bed and get injured.
When it comes to play areas for your pet, designate a space where they can stay during play hours and fill it with fun items. If you’re a cat owner, products like cat trees, scratching posts, and interactive toys are great items to have. On the other hand, dogs appreciate puzzle toys and sturdy chew toys. Having these pet items ensures your pet can expend their energy healthily instead of treating your personal stuff as their toys. That said, always watch your pet when playing with these items to avoid accidental ingestion of things they shouldn’t be eating.
Pet-Proof Your Home
Another step in keeping your home safe for your pets is by pet-proofing it. Identify common hazards like electrical wires, small items, and plants that are toxic to pets. Small objects, like buttons, rubber bands, or small toys are enticing to many curious pets and they might play with them. However, such items can pose choking hazards. As such, make sure they’re stored away from your pet’s reach.
Other items that pets may find interesting are electrical cords and outlets. Unplug cords, use cord covers, and conceal cords when possible to prevent pets from chewing on them. Also, use power outlet covers to prevent your pet from trying to lick them and possibly getting an electrical shock. In the case of plants, avoid putting aloe vera plants, pothos, and lilies in your home or at least in areas where your pets might access them. Make sure to do your due diligence when incorporating other ornamental plants to ensure they are not poisonous.
Safe Cleaning and Home Maintenance
Many household chemicals around the home can be harmful to pets, including bleach, ammonia, and insecticides. If your pet’s skin comes in contact with some of these substances, they might experience irritation, itching, and chemical burns. And if they accidentally ingest these chemicals, it can lead to poisoning. With this in mind, store all cleaning products securely in cabinets where your pets won’t be able to access them. You can also opt for non-toxic cleaners or make your own from common household items like vinegar and baking soda.
Additionally, if you’re performing home maintenance tasks like painting or repairs, be mindful of where your pets are at all times. Keep them out of the area being worked on and ensure proper ventilation to prevent them from inhaling harmful fumes.
Keep Outdoor Spaces Safe
Aside from the indoors, ensure that outdoor spaces are enjoyable and safe for your pets. Fence off the area to prevent them from escaping, especially if you have a dog that likes to explore. Also, check the fence for any gaps or weak spots. If you have a cat, make sure to keep them on a long leash when they’re playing or chilling out in your yard.
If you’re maintaining a garden, consider pet-friendly landscaping by choosing plants that are not toxic to dogs and cats. For pest control, avoid using toxic chemicals that can harm your pets. Instead, look for pet-safe alternatives.
Maintain Pet Safety When You’re Away
At times, you may need to leave your pet home alone due to work or personal commitments. If this is the case, provide safe confinement options for your pets. For dogs, you can consider letting them stay in crates. Just make sure it is spacious enough for them to stand and turn around comfortably. If this isn’t suitable for your pet or you need to be away for a long period, explore other options. You can take your pet to a pet daycare or hire a pet sitter who can keep your pet company and care for them in your absence.
Part of being a responsible pet owner is providing your pet with a safe and welcoming environment to play and rest. This means your house is free of hazards that may harm your dogs or cats. It also involves ensuring your pets’ safety while you’re not home. With that in mind, consider following the steps mentioned above. Doing this will help ensure you give your furry companions a happy and healthy place to call home.
