The last thing you want after purchasing your new home is your pet destroying it. Pet proofing your home can be a lot like child proofing your home. Puppies and kittens can be especially mischievous so here are some tips to keep your home and companion safe.
Kitchens/Bathrooms
Childproof latching is a great way to keep paws out of your cabinets. You should also place your medications, cleaners, and chemicals either in those cabinets or somewhere out of reach. Garbage is always a magnet for pets, especially dogs, so keep your trash cans covered and inside your cabinets as well. And finally keep your toilet seats covered; you don’t want your pet drinking from them or worse falling in and drowning. Bigger dogs can wreak havoc on hardwood floors, causing scratches with their claws. So if you have a big lovable animal it may be a good idea to lay down a floor mat or other protective covering in areas they often go.
Living Room/ Family Room
First off, if you don’t want your pets going into a room using a child safety gate is a great idea. Make sure children toys and other chewable items are in bins and locked up. Many dogs don’t like the taste of lemon or bitter apple. Try spraying pet-safe products in these flavors on tempting chewables. Heating and cooling vents should be covered. It may also be smart to choose a darker color carpet that hides stains better, just in case.
Yard
Fencing of some sort will help keep your pets from wondering off. An invisible or electronic fence system is one option that allows you to maintain an open yard. A regular fence, metal or wooden, is low-tech but reliable. Just make sure the gate is properly maintained. The fence gate should be hinged to close and latch automatically when you enter or leave the yard, with no way for your dog to nose it open.
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