How to Pet-Proof Your Home

Most pet owners think of their furry friends as members of their family. It’s no surprise, as pets offer much-needed companionship during these trying times. They can help decrease stress and lower blood pressure, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The NIH also found that animals can even aid kids in improving their social and emotional skills. 

Despite all the wonderful benefits of pet parenthood, they also come with a wide array of responsibilities. Some dogs and cats can be too curious for their own good. They seem to want to taste everything, from paper to yesterday’s garbage. Others like to dig into the couch, searching for lost treasure.

Protect your furry friends from hazards and your Hamilton Executive Residences home from damage with these pet-proofing tips.

Clear the Living Room of Pet Hazards 

The living room is where everyone can relax after a long day. However, it also doubles as a fun obstacle course for your pets. All the scratching, chewing, and running around could do irreparable damage to your furniture and appliances. And if your pets aren’t careful (they mostly aren’t), they could end up hurting themselves, too. 

• Make sure to keep your kids’ toys away from the ground to prevent your pet from choking on them.
• Tuck exposed electrical cords away to prevent your pets from chewing on them. 
• Cover your couch with slipcovers or blankets to protect it from scratches. 
• Keep heavy exercise equipment out of your pets’ reach to avoid painful accidents. 

Keep Dangerous Kitchen Objects Out of Pets' Reach

The kitchen is every pet’s favorite section of the house. The smells of fresh meat being seared or baked are sure to get all your dogs and cats running to you. However, this room is also one of the most dangerous places your pets can wander around in. 

They could get burnt by stoves or ovens. The sharp knife or fork on your counter could also cause injuries to your pets. Your furry friends could also choke on the wrappers and bones they find in your trash bin.

• Add a gate to your kitchen entrances to prevent pets from coming while you’re cooking. Keep all your cabinets and drawers closed when not in use. Put childproof locks in them, if necessary. 

• Store your sharp kitchen supplies away from your pets’ reach.
   
• Keep food that’s toxic to your pets, like chocolate, inside your refrigerator or in a sealed container. 

Keep Bathroom Essentials Out of Sight

The reason behind pets following you into the bathroom is one of life’s unsolved mysteries. These cute little bodyguards could end up chewing your week’s supply of toilet paper or drinking gross toilet water. 

• Keep your medicine bottles on your highest shelves, where even the most athletic cat can’t reach them.
• Don’t use expensive rugs inside your bathroom. Your pet will likely rough them up. 
• Install toilet paper covers to prevent your pets from unraveling them
• Lock your cleaning supplies inside a cabinet
• Always close your bathroom door after use. If you want to keep it open, remember to close the toilet lid, at least. 

Pets provide so much love and light to your life. Return the favor by protecting them from the possible hazards in your home. Use these suggestions to pet-proof your house and keep your furry friends happy and safe.