How to Make Your Home Safer for Your Dog
Dogs are far more than just animals. They're integral parts of our families, and we treat them as such. In many ways, taking care of them is much like caring for a child. They need time, attention, and a safe environment to live in. Here are some ways you can make your home safer for your dog, brought to you by our expert dog trainers.
Don't Leave Food and Medicine Unattended
Medications and certain foods can be dangerous (and even deadly) if accidentally consumed by your dog. Drug poisoning is unfortunately a common problem for dogs. Any amount of human medication, regardless of whether it is prescribed or over the counter, can have alarming effects on your pup. Keep any medications, cleaners, and other chemicals around your home on high shelves so your dog can't reach them. Don't leave food out on your counters unattended, and store all of your food out of reach or behind closed doors.
Know What Plants Are Toxic
Plants in and outside of the house are pleasant for both you and your pup. But while they add a splash of color and fragrance to any home, some can also present a danger to dogs. There are many average outdoor and indoor plants that are known to be toxic to animals. Common flowers like daffodils, oleanders, and azaleas can cause severe intestinal issues if consumed by a dog. Check the list of household plants that are toxic to dogs if you're unsure of the safety of plants around your home and yard.
Install a Dog Door
Without a dog door, your dog doesn't have any way to get in and out of your home by themselves. This can be an annoyance when they need to go to the bathroom, but can become life threatening in some situations. There have been many instances of dangerous situations where the dogs become trapped inside the home while the family escapes. Dogs can also get trapped outside in the winter or summer due to accidental neglectfulness, or have dangerous encounters with predaceous animals that they can't get away from. Having a dog door can give your dog an escape from life endangering situations, increasing their chances for survival.
Keep Electrical Cords out of Reach
Electrical cords and wires are one of the most dangerous items around the home that a dog can get into. To them, it could be nothing but a fun new chew toy. This could lead to burns in their mouths, electric shocks, or death from electrocution. Keep wires and cords tied up and tucked out of sight, or consider bundling them up and placing them inside PVC pipes for safe storage. Keep in mind the similar danger of outlets; cover them up to make sure your pup won't accidentally get shocked by one.
Dog Proof Your Trash Can
One of the worst things for a dog to get into is your trash cans. Not only does it guarantee a mess for you, who knows what might be in there that could be dangerous for them to swallow? Dog proof your garbage cans by keeping them covered, and if possible try storing them behind a door or outside so they'll be harder for your pup to access. You can also purchase latches for outdoor garbage cans and recycling bins.
Install a Fence
Having an open yard makes it a little too easy for dogs to escape and possibly get themselves in danger. Installing a fence will make your yard a safer and more contained environment for your dog. If your home already has a fence, you should carefully look over it for any weak spots or places where your dog could get out.
Use Dog Gates
Installing dog gates in your home are a good idea for many situations. If you have a young puppy that still struggles with going up and down the stairs or loves getting into places they shouldn't, installing a dog gate will keep them safe and out of trouble. Dog gates can also benefit a dog that has neurological or musculoskeletal problem that affects their mobility.
Your dog is a part of your family, and you want them to be as safe and comfortable in your home as possible. Taking some of these tips into account can help you make your home a better environment for you dog.
Do you have any questions or concerns? Contact Dog Training Elite today for professional dog training services and safety tips for your pup, we're happy to help!