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How to Keep Pets Safe at Home? [A Pawsome Guide]

Most people are fascinated by the cuteness of a little puppy or kitten, and they love them as well. They also want to keep those four-legged animals in their house as family members. Although cat owners provide everything necessary for their beloved pets, they do not pay much attention to the topic of pet safety.

Pet safety is an important topic that should be considered when you are planning to welcome an adorable kitten into your home. Just as humans need a safe and comfortable home to live in, a pet also needs a customized home that can provide silent pets with safety as well as a comfortable place to live in. 

Our ultimate guide to keeping pets safe at home will highlight the areas you should keep in mind for cat safety. We will cover all the measures in our guide on how to provide safety to your pets in different areas of your house and yard.

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How Many American Families Own Pets?

As of the 2021-2022 survey, around 90.5 million homes in America own a pet. American households spend over $50 billion per year on pets – food and health expenses.

Now, moving on to Common hazards for pets in households.

Common Household Hazards For Pets

There are many items in the normal home that could hurt a pet. If you throw used razors in the trash bin in the bathroom, your pet might get into it and get cut. You’re probably going to the vet soon if you leave chocolate where a pet can get to it. Hence, if you decide to possess a pet, you must take responsibility for keeping them safe.Common household hazards for pets include, 

  • Batteries
  • Fertilizers and plant food
  • Insecticides
  • Medicines
  • Detergents
  • Household cleaners
  • Rat poison and traps
  • Razors and sharp objects
  • Tobacco
  • Kerosene
  • Rubber bands
  • String
  • Mothballs 
  •  

A. Common Hazards Areas For Pets

There are many items in the normal home that could hurt a pet. If you throw used razors in the trash bin in the bathroom, your pet might get into it and get cut. You’re probably going to the vet soon if you leave chocolate where a pet can get to it. Hence, if you decide to possess a pet, you must take responsibility for keeping them safe.

Common household hazards for pets include,

  • Bedroom
  • Bathroom
  • Kitchen
  • Garage
  • Laundry room
  • Yard
  • Living room
  • Windows
  •  

B. Food Safety For Pets

Unlike humans, the digestive system of pets is different. Pets are unable to digest all of the foods that humans consume. Some foods induce disease and even death in pets shortly after consumption, while others are harmful to pets if taken on a regular basis. Most foods can cause stomach discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhoea. The foods listed below may make your pets sick.

  • Alcohol
  • Mushrooms
  • Spoiled food
  • Fat trimmings
  • Garlic
  • Avocados
  • Coffee
  • Raw meat eggs
  • Meat bones
  • Artificial sweeteners
  • Milk
  • Toothpaste
  • Chewing gum candy

C. What To Do If Your Pet Ingests Something Poisonous?

If your pet swallows something poisonous, you should immediately get in touch with a veterinarian. They’ll be able to tell you how bad the problem is. They might urge you not to worry too much if your 60-pound dog eats a tiny chocolate bar, but if it’s a severe issue, they will tell you exactly what you should do with your pet.

END OF PART ONE

Bedroom Safety

Pet Hazards in the Bedroom

  •     Drawers
  •     Device Chargers
  •     Closets
  •     Jewelry
  •     Clothes

A. Drawers

Open drawers in your bedroom are a driving temptation for kittens and puppies. So, you must ensure that the drawers are closed so that your cute little pets don’t get stuck in the drawer by mistake. Open drawers can act as ladders for the cats to climb up to an unsafe high point.

In addition, open upper drawers can invite big cats and dogs to chew on items stored in the drawers, such as clothes, buttons, etc. Buttons and jewelry are choking hazards. If your pets chew on them, they may be prone to strangulation in the throat.

B. Device Chargers

Usually, people in every household charge their electronic devices, such as mobile, laptop in their bedrooms. The device changer can tempt your cats to play with it or chew on it, which can result in various issues for your cats. So, always keep the charger inaccessible to your cats. 

A charger cord plugged into a wall socket can also cause shock, even if it is not connected to the device. If your pets chew on the charger wire, it can be a shock, and additionally, chewing plastic can also have a bad effect on their health.

C. Closets

Closets are another attractive place for pets, especially little kittens, to play hide and seek. Closets contain various items, such as shoes, clothes, etc. They can be a safety concern for your little cats. Your little cats could be injured if they get trapped in the closet or if clothes boxes from the top shelves fall on cats. Therefore, you make sure that your closet is closed to prevent cats from reaching it.

D. Jewelery

Jewelry is a very appealing item for pets. Jewelry items like chains, bangles, and necklaces are like play items for little cats. But, they are also choking hazards for cats. In case your cats find such items open, they won’t miss a chance to pull or chew on those items. Hence, you have to take special care when storing your jewelry items so that those items do not reach the hands of cats and do not become their play items.

E. Clothes

Clothes left in the laundry bin or floor for washing can become a pet’s safety concern. Chewing on clothes is also a propensity for cats. So, in such a situation, if your small cats chew the button in the clothes or the elastic of the inner garments, it can be harmful to their health.

Also, a piece of elastic or a button getting stuck in their throat can create a dangerous situation. Hence, avoid leaving clothes on the floor or in the laundry bin to ensure the safety of your little pets.

END OF PART TWO

Bathroom Safety

A. Medications

If you have stored medications correctly in the medicine cabinet in your bathroom, there’s nothing to worry about. But, if you accidentally leave medications in the sink and you also leave the countertops and lids open, it can become a safety issue for your pets.

Certain human pharmaceuticals, including some over-the-counter prescriptions, can be lethal if consumed by pets. Hence, It’s good to keep pet and human drugs stored safely apart from one another to avoid any potential mix-ups.

B. Toilets

The toilet is also a hazard to your pets. There are chances for your pets to slip and get stuck and even drown in the toilet. Your pets can get stuck in the toilet seat and get injured. Apart from this, soap, shampoo, bleach, and in-tank cleaners in the toilet can harm your pets if they ingest them. 

So, keep the soap, shampoo, and in-tank cleaner you use to clean your toilet out of reach of pets. Always keep the toilet door closed to prevent your pets from slipping on the toilet seat.

C. Showers and Bathtubs

Showers and bathtubs pose little risk to your pet. However, bathroom materials, such as soap, body cleanser, shampoo, and chemicals found in bathtubs can harm your cats’ health as these materials contain chemicals, such as anionic detergents. 

On the other hand, other materials, like loofahs and sponges in the shower, can also harm your pets by chewing on them. They are at risk of strangulation. Therefore, you need to maintain safety while keeping them in the bathroom. Keep your shower doors closed to restrict the area inaccessible to your pets.

D. Sharp Objects

A bathroom contains a variety of sharp objects, such as razors, blades, nail files, scissors, and so on. These items may pose a risk to the safety of the pet.If your pet swallows a blade, it can bring fatal consequences for your pet. So, be careful to keep sharp objects in your bathroom. Under no circumstances should your pets reach those items; take special care of them.

E. Toothpaste and Cosmetics

On the other hand, Tea tree oil, minoxidil, toluene, formaldehyde, acetone, and other common cosmetics contain components that are toxic to pets. Another toxic product is isopropyl alcohol, which is found in large amounts in hand sanitizers and is harmful to your pets. 

Hence, it is of paramount importance to ensure that your cabinet door does not open with the claws of the pet. You may consider using a childproof door lock if a pet can open the cabinet door.

F. Appliances and Cords

Hair straighteners and curling irons can reach temperatures above 400 degrees, which is a clear danger to pets if they come into contact with heating equipment. Even when bathroom appliances, such as electric razors and hair dryer cords, are not used, these items can still be dangerous to pets because they are too tempting to chew and can give a shock to the pets.  

Hanging cords can be rocked, allowing equipment and nearby objects to fall to the ground, making them more accessible to dogs and cats. Therefore, take care of placing these appliances completely inaccessible to your pet.

END OF PART THREE

Kitchen Safety

A. Food

Surprisingly, some foods are good for humans but can be harmful or toxic to your pets. The ASPCA Poison Control Center lists foods that can be dangerous to pets. These include alcohol, grapes, raisins, coconut, coconut oil, coconut water, citrus, yeast dough, and salty snacks that are hazardous to pets. 

Eating the mentioned food for your pet can cause a number of health problems, such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive urination, kidney problems, fever, seizures, and even death. Therefore, always keep your pets away from these foods.

B. Pantry

Your cats certainly know about your kitchen pantry and are also aware of the abundance of items out there. They will entice your cats to sneak in and explore. Keeping pet food items in the pantry will increase your pet’s curiosity even more. 

While some pantry items are kept in safe bins, jars, and plastic storage containers, many others are kept in easily open boxes and bags. So, for the safety of your little family members,

dogs or cats, but such items are out of their reach.

C. Trash

If you don’t go to the kitchen for a while or are out of the house for work, your beloved companions may look for you all over the house. If your small pets chew or swallow a few pieces of trash from a trash box kept in the kitchen, it can be dangerous for them. Not only can trash contain food that is harmful to pets but outdated food may also be contaminated with bacteria, causing serious stomach problems.

Besides, plastics, plastic bags, twist ties, bottle caps, and other choking hazards are frequently found in the trash. Trash can lids and trash cans with sharp edges can be dangerous to your pets. So, it’s better to purchase heavier garbage and keep the trash more secure.

D. Cabinets

Pets can be surprisingly adept at opening cabinet doors. Cabinets may contain potentially dangerous household chemicals and cleaning agents. In addition to exposure to this, pets can become entangled in plastic wrap or have their heads stuck in stored plastic bags.

Moreover, trash bins are often found in the lower sink cabinet, so small pets are more likely to get stuck in the cabinets, with stuff falling on them. Hence, after each use, double-check to make sure the cabinet doors are shut.

E. Nooks and Crannies

Small pets naturally check spaces between and behind large appliances, between appliances and cupboards, and even open dishwashers. And these can cause great harm to your beloved pet. That is why it would be better to prevent the pets from reaching the nooks and crannies.

F. Appliances and Cords

Modern kitchen facilities can pose a threat to the safety of your cats or dogs. Major appliance strings are usually hidden secretly under the appliance. But, small countertop appliances often cause pet safety concerns.

The most common problems are exposed strings that are tempting for pets to play with, tug or chew on. However, unplugging these gadgets eliminates the potentially fatal risk of munching on the cord.

END OF PART FOUR

Yard Safety

A. Fences

Fences are essential for keeping your pets secure within your yard. But, cats are natural climbers and can cause injury by going over fences.The fence may not be too dangerous for dogs. The correct fence is determined by the dog’s size and jumping capabilities. Even in the instance of a cat, the fence must be selected based on its size and jumping skills in order to avoid harm.

B. Pools

There is a common belief that dogs are natural swimmers and they are adept at swimming. A dog’s ability to swim is often determined by its breed. Large-breasted dogs are better at swimming, while thinner-breed dogs with shorter legs may be prone to water risk. But the problem is that when dogs paddle, they mainly use their front legs. 

Due to this, they can become tired after a while, and their risk of drowning increases. Hence, it is the duty of the dog owner to practice swimming in a pool with their dogs and encourage their pets to paddle with their hind legs, too, to avoid the danger of water.

C. Toxic Outdoor Plants

There will be many toxic plants in your yard that can harm your pets if they swallow them. So, for your pet’s safety, remove those toxic plants and fill them outdoors with non-toxic flora. The harmful outdoor plants are:

  • Autumn Crocus
  • English Ivy
  • Amaryllis
  • Narcissus Bulbs
  • Tulip Bulbs
  • Lilies
  • Bleeding Heart
  • Lily-of-the-Valley
  • Hemlock
  • Bleeding Heart
  • Castor Oil

D. Fire Pits

The outdoor fire pits can be used as the focal point of a peaceful evening or as a gathering place for a quiet night ceremony. However, these fire pits can become a danger to your pets. To keep pets safe, pet owners should take the following precautions,

  • Keep the fire pit under control  
  • Set limits for your pet
  • Don’t leave your dogs alone
  • Extinguish the fire fully after your program is over

E. Trash Bins

Outside trash bins frequently include a variety of items, such as bones, metal bottle tops, plastic, plastic bags, and other objects that fall into this category that pose a choking threat to pets. If your pets consume them, food leftovers and garbage can pose a bacterial health risk to pets. Hence, your outside garbage cans should have tight-fitting lids and should never be overflowing to the point where the tops can’t be secured.

F. Standing Water

Standing water can be a fun place for pets to play, and it can also provide a source of water for thirsty animals. Standing water, on the other hand, can be dangerous to pets. It can easily lure a pet. So, it should be removed from your yard.

END OF PART FIVE

Laundry Room Safety

A. Detergents And Bleach

Detergent and bleach can be a hazard to pets. Therefore, the can should be tightly closed after each use. Keep in mind that if you measure detergent or bleach out of a product containing other than the cap, the product residue in the container should be cleaned up. These materials must be kept out of reach of pets.

B. Washer and Dryer Safety

Aside from the items used in a laundry room, washer and dryer can endanger pets. A little cat may find an open washing too attractive. A small cat looking for a warm spot to sleep or hide may find an open dryer door appealing. Hence, the pet owners must check washers and dryers before using them and close doors to keep curious pets out.

C. Irons and Ironing Boards

For pets, irons and ironing boards can pose a variety of dangers. When you combine a heavy iron and a hanging rope, you have a potentially dangerous situation for pets. Ironing boards should only be installed, and irons plugged in only when they are in use. 

The cords should never be allowed to dangle from pets. Ironing boards should be placed in a closet or in the middle of a wall, so they don’t fall on your pets. Keep the iron out of reach of pets so they can’t cut or pull power lines and cause damage to themselves.

END OF PART SIX

Living Rooms Safety

A. Furniture

You may often spend time in this special place with your reliable companion, a dog. However, furniture in the living room can be hazardous for pets. So, it would be best if you placed the furniture, ensuring the safety of your cats. For example, curio cabinets and bookcases don’t have to be top-heavy. A climbing pet has the ability to knock it down. Consider attaching the top part of the structure to the wall.

B. TV

Modern flat-screen TVs can pose some unique challenges in pet-friendly homes, particularly in houses with medium- to large-sized pets with the mass and capacity to overturn table-mounted screens. A larger pet may hit the TV, causing harm to it. However, you can fix this problem by mounting your flat TV to the wall.

C. Heavy Decorations and Objects

Heavy decorative and other objects constitute a safety concern to your larger pets. Taller cabinets and bookcases and free-standing lamps, plants, decorative pillars, and artwork are some of the items that can harm your cats. So, keep items out of reach of your cats or dogs.

D. Candles and Potpourri

When a candle or potpourri holder is burning, pets should never be left unattended. Your pet can knock over the candles, which could result in a fire. If a curious pet spills hot water from a potpourri pot, it could get burned.Electric candles and potpourri, which emit fragrance without an open flame, are safer options. Nevertheless, keep the cables for these heaters out of reach of your pets.

END OF PART SEVEN

Garage Safety

A. Tools

Ladders, power saws, and hedge clippers are all common tools found in garages, and they are hazards for pets. A pet can easily knock over long-handled tools and ladders that are hanging against a wall. So, you should store the appliances more safely on hangers. To avoid electrical shock to a cord-chewing pet, power equipment should always be unplugged and carefully kept so they don’t fall down on a pet.

B. Cars

Cars parked in the garage can be a risk to your cats. Cats may find the hot engine of a freshly driven car as a place to comfort, especially in cold weather. So, check the engine compartment before starting the car. Cats can also hit parked car tires or enter through an open window. Carbon monoxide from a moving car is harmful to both humans and pets. Hence, keeping garage doors closed and restricting access might help keep your pet safe.

C. Chemicals

Chemicals, solvents, and fuels are commonly found in garages in greater quantities than in any other part of the house. Follow these tips to make your garage pet-friendly.

  • Chemicals and fluids should be kept in their original containers
  • Container lids should be tightly closed
  • Containers should be kept in cabinets with the doors shut
  • Never put liquids in open bottles on a worktop

D. Boxes and Storage

Many people also use garages for additional storage. But, they can cause many dangers to pets. If your pets consume stored items, such as light, delicate glass bulbs, strings, tinsel, beads, and other items, they can pose a health or choking hazard to them. Hence, plastic bags, paper clips, rubber bands, and other things that are harmful to pets, you should store these items properly in plastic bins or in secure packaging.

E. Heavy Objects

Heavy power tools, hanging tools, ladders and step stools, outdoor grills, bicycles, and shelving units, among other items, may be found in the garbage, endangering your pets. So, you take precautions to ensure that these heavy materials do not fall on your pets.

END OF PART EIGHT

Make Windows Safe for Pets

A. Keeping Window Closed

It’s nearly never a smart idea to leave a window open. If it rains, an open window can be a concern, and your pets can run through the window. There are various ways to provide your pets with a view while you are away. You might choose to build a padded platform that will be put near the windows inside. Cats may appreciate a carpeted cat tree near the window.

B. Blinds and Cord Safety

If you have blinds and curtains on your windows, take extra precautions to ensure that your dogs do not become tangled or smothered in the cords. These strings might draw pets’ attention as they dangle in the air. Chewing on cords and tassels by a cat or dog can result in a negative outcome.

C. Safe Screens

The ideal configuration for cats to view outside is an open window with a screen. A passing bird can pique the cat’s interest, and the cat could even fall out of a screened window. This is why you should replace your conventional fiberglass screen with a pet-proof screen window. But, make sure the fiberglass screening material is properly placed for pets’ safety. 

END OF PART NINE

Which Indoor Plants Are Safe For Pets?

The appropriate choice of live houseplants can ensure that your pet’s health will not be at risk. Consider the plants listed below if you’re seeking safe plants for your yard.

  • Boston Fern
  • Bamboo
  • Spider Plants 
  • Wax plants 
  • Tradescantia Zebrina

A. Toxic Indoor Plants

There are about 700 plants that are poisonous plants that have been identified. For the sake of your pet’s safety, here are some toxic plants to avoid having in your house,

  • Amaryllis
  • Lilies
  • Elephant Ear
  • Cyclamen
  • Aloe Plant
  • Satin Pothos
  • Asparagus Fern
  • Jade Plant
  • Heartleaf Philodendron
END OF PART TEN

Home Improvements For Your Pets

A. Keeping Pets Safe During Renovations

During house renovations, your pets may be exposed to hazardous conditions. Strange people and loud and dangerous power tools are brought into a home during renovations. There may be openings in the floors and walls and dust and other hazardous materials and impediments. We’ve put up some pointers to keep your pets safe while you’re renovating your home. 

  • Visit your veterinarian prior to the renovation.
  • Consider boarding or having someone else temporarily care for your pets.
  • Make a secure environment for your pets in your home.

B. Re-Fencing Tips

Because the fence position has generally already been selected, re-fencing a yard might be significantly easier than fencing a yard for the first time. You may not even require a permit. Here are some ideas for re-fencing your yard,

  • Verify all necessary permits and property lines.
  • Choose a gate placement.
  • Choose the best type of fence for your pet.
  • Determine the height of the fencing required to keep your pet safe.

C. Creating Personal Spaces for Pets

Pets desire their own personal space in which to relax, unwind, and sleep. Pets can find their comfortable place, but there can be problems with this. This is why it’s preferable to provide your pets with their own place. We’ve compiled some suggestions for creating a customized personal space for your pets.

  • Check to see if the place is fully safe for your dogs.
  • Find a lovely spot that your pets will enjoy.
  • Make it a pet-friendly environment.
  • Include some of your pet’s favorite toys in their living space

D. Installing Dog Doors

Dog doors are necessary for their protection. It might give your dog a new sense of independence. Dog doors should be attractive, simple, and easy to install. When installing a dog door, keep the following points in mind,

  • Figure out how big your dog is
  • Determine the type of material that your current door is made of Based on the dog door information, you should purchase a dog door.
  • Remove the framing from your outside door.
  • To cut and install the dog doors, follow the right methods.

E. Installing Cameras

Security cameras are another effective option for ensuring the safety of your pets. Cameras are less expensive and easy to install. You can control the settings of your camera. The security cameras allow you to communicate with your pets in two ways. Pet cameras allow you to keep an eye on your pet when you’re at work or away for the weekend.

F. Building a Catio

A Catio will provide a secure environment for cats to roam freely outside. It prevents them from searching for birds or other animals while also offering a safe place to walk or sit. When constructing a Catio for your little cats, follow the tips given below.

  • What kind of Catio should you get for your cats?
  • How will your vehicle gain entry to the outdoor area?
  • What size will your catio be, and what materials will it be made of?
  • What features should your catio include?
END OF PART ELEVEN

Pet Safety During A Natural Disaster

Natural disasters are increasingly affecting people’s lives around the world, therefore, you should be prepared to safeguard your pet if one strikes. While the types of disasters that your location is prone to will differ depending on geography, there are a few things you can do ahead of time to ensure that your pets are safe. Here are 5 tips for keeping your dogs safe in the event of a disaster in your region.

  • Ensure that your pets are easily recognizable
  • Keep your pets inside the house
  • Vaccinate your pets on a regular basis
  • Make an emergency supply kit
  • Make a list of pet-friendly hotels or places in the area

A. Safety For Specialty And Exotic Pets

Although dogs and cats are the most common pets, fish is one of the most popular pets in the United States. It is estimated that more than 10 million Americans have other pets, such as fish,

reptiles, rabbits, rodents, ferrets, and turtles. Hence, in our ultimate guide to keeping pets safe at home, we are adding some tips keeping in mind the needs of other pet owners.

B. Pet Fish Safety

More space and water are required for goldfish. If you intend to retain goldfish, you should invest in a larger aquarium. Aside from the aquarium, you’ll need filters to keep the water clean.

Also, you need to consider buying some plants for the fish tank. For the safety of fish, regular aquarium maintenance is important.

C. Keeping Your Birds Safe

The first consideration for bird safety is the birdcage. Make sure your birdcage has enough perches for it to rest on during the day. Also, keep the cage clean and the water bowl filled on a regular basis. Since birds are sensitive to extremes of heat or cold, the space where your birdcage is kept should maintain a fairly steady temperature. 

Moreover, birds are sensitive to toxins found in a variety of products at home. Make sure your ceiling fans are switched off and windows are covered when you let your birds out of the cage so they don’t try to fly through them.

D. Pet Reptile and Amphibian Safety

Some different types of pets, such as turtles, frogs, snakes, iguanas, salamanders, geckos, toads, and chameleons are listed as colourful, exotic, and quiet pets. These pets are often easier to care for than a roaming dog or cat. 

However, you should consider safety considerations while dealing with these animals or pets. If you own a reptile or amphibian, you must ensure that it has a suitable living environment. This is critical for your pet’s health, whether it’s in a desert, wooded, semi-aquatic, or aquatic habitat

END OF PART TWELVE

Pet Safety Tips In The Time Of Coronavirus

For the past two years, the coronavirus epidemic has wreaked havoc all over the world. Due to this virus, a large number of people lost their lives across the world. Now, the impact of Covid-19 has reduced significantly, but it has not been completely wiped out from the world.

Hence, in our ultimate guide to keeping pets safe at home, we feel the need to provide 10 pet safety tips during the COVID 19 pandemic.

A. Because There Is No Proof

that your pets can make you sick with COVID-19, we can’t say that pets can transmit the virus to humans. Nevertheless, dogs and cats are still susceptible to more prevalent respiratory infections, like Bordetella, parainfluenza, canine influenza, etc. Therefore, it is critical to get your pets vaccinated.

Hence, in our ultimate guide to keeping pets safe at home, we feel the need to provide 10 pet safety tips during the COVID 19 pandemic. 

B. There Is No Risk

in keeping pets. The COVID-19 virus thrives on smooth surfaces like worktops and doorknobs, rather than porous ones like pet fur. Hence, in our guide to keeping pets safe at home, we feel the need to provide 10 pet safety tips during the COVID 19 pandemic. 

C. On Dog Walks

keep a safe distance and maintain good cleanliness. Before and after each stroll, properly wash your hands with soap and water. Also, use  hand sanitizer. Allow no interaction with you or your pets while on a walk.

D. Face Masks Are

not required to save your pet from virus infection. Face masks may cause your dogs to have breathing problems and increase their stress levels.

E. Practicing Pet Safety

away from prohibited human food and snack packages. The foods, such as chocolate, avocados, macadamia nuts, and so on are toxic to pets, unlike humans. Don’t throw away any empty packets of chips.

F. Remove All Liquid Potpourris

and essential oil diffusers from your house. Potpourri and essential oils in your home might cause respiratory problems and chemical burns in your dogs.

G. Certain Cleaning Agents

such as ammonia and chlorine, should be avoided. They’re strong respiratory irritants that can make your pets dizzy, vomiting, and harm their mucous membranes. If you use these cleaners, try to keep your pets away from contact with these agents.

H. Deep Breathing

and other stress-relieving activities should be practiced. Pets have the ability to detect human emotional moods. They can calm down if you are calm.

I. Daily Mental

and physical enrichment activities for your dogs are recommended. Go bowl-free and put kibble in a pet food puzzle to bring out your pet’s inner hunter. Check to see whether your pet enjoys playing pet games on a tablet or laptop.

END OF PART THIRTEEN

Pet Safety In Celebration

Seasonal festivities and holiday trips are a part of our lifestyle. In the ultimate guide to keeping pets safe at home, we now present some suggestions for celebrating your celebration with pet safety in mind.

A. Celebratory Decorations

Your celebratory decorations may jeopardize your pet’s health and safety. Take your pet to the vet right away if it has shiny strands of tinsel wrapped around its intestines.

B. Lights

There are a variety of decorations containing twinkle lights that can be hazardous to your dogs when they are used to decorate your home. If your pet chews or tries to consume the wires, it may receive an electric shock. Hence, keep a watch out for fraying or symptoms of chewing on pet wires.

C. Candles

Candles, which are commonly used in the home during celebrations, can be quite dangerous to your pet. According to estimates from US Fire Agencies, candles burned in the home caused an estimated 7,610 domestic fires between 2014 and 2018. So, make sure any candles are out of reach of your pets. It’s never a good idea to keep candles burning unattended.

D. Essential Oils

Essential oils may appear to be the most effective approach to making your house feel instantly festive. However, some oils have been shown to be harmful or even lethal to pets if consumed. Permethrin poisoning is the most common cause of tremors in cats, according to the ASPCA.

Unfortunately, it’s found in a lot of home products, so make sure to read the labels on anything that potentially comes into contact with your pet. You should also avoid using oils that might cause respiratory problems in your pet, such as nebulizers and ultrasonics.

E. Toxic Foods and Plants

Many of your favourite foods and plants are exceedingly dangerous, even lethal to our adorable pets during your holiday celebration. Hence, there are several aspects to take in mind before planning your holiday cuisine in terms of edible plants and food choices.

F. Plants

Plants like mistletoe, poinsettia, pine trees, tree water, and lilies are all harmful to pets and can even kill them. Keep them out of reach of your dogs if you bring them inside your home as Christmas plants. Unfortunately, if your pets ingest those plants, they should be taken to the Animal Poison Control Center immediately.

G. Food

Food is a staple of any holiday gathering, and with delicious foods you can keep your entertainment party going all night. Many of these foods, on the other hand, are toxic to your dogs. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many baked goods that has been linked to liver failure and even death in dogs.

In addition, fatty meats, like turkey, can cause internal injuries in pets if consumed. Avoid the following foods that are harmful to your cats and dogs,

  • Chocolate
  • Onion 
  • Apple seeds
  • Caffeine
  • Raisins
  • Nuts
  • Mushrooms
  • Milk and dairy products 
  • Alcohol
  • Raw eggs
  • Rhubarb
  • Nutmeg
  • Garlic
  • Grapes
  • Salt

H. Party Safety

Christmas or any other holiday parties definitely bring more people into the house. Your pets may struggle to acclimatise to the sudden crowds and noise, which can disturb their normal routines. Because some pets aren’t as outgoing or well-adjusted as others, you may need to keep them aside from guests until they’ve gotten used to the excitement.

I. Helping Your Pets Adjust To Company

New guests can be both unknown and unsettling to your pets because they bring with them new sights, noises, and smells. Request that your guests store food, decorations, and other materials in a secure place where your pets will not be able to get them. 

Pets also enjoy scavenging the trash for leftovers, so ensure trash cans have secure lids and that everyone disposes of any garbage promptly. Additionally, the frequent arrival and departure of guests can result in often opening doors, which give the ideal escape for your pets. 

Therefore, the most effective option is to make a secure, comfortable, and climate-controlled environment where your pets may spend their time in peace and safety. Make sure your pets’ room has enough food, water, and lights. You can give the dogs their favourite chew toys and blankets to help them relax and sleep until the party ends.

J. Holiday Travel

Whenever you plan to travel to places near or far to enjoy your holiday, you will definitely want to include the little members of your family either a dog or a cat. Whether or not you bring your pets with you will, however, be determined by your plans. If you’re travelling by car with your pet, or leaving them at home with a pet sitter, there are a few things to keep in mind.

1. Car Safety:

If you want to travel with your pets in the car, take extra precautions to ensure their safety. Don’t make the mistake of leaving your pets alone in the car, and all pets should be fastened. A car restraint or crate is usually a smart option because it may keep your dogs peaceful and relaxed while you drive, in addition to keeping them safe in an accident.

2. Getting a Pet Sitter:​

If your pets don’t fare well with travel, hiring a pet sitter can be a good solution. Look at your homeowners insurance coverage to ensure your liability is covered. You should be aware of what is covered in the event of an accident, such as a dog bite. Moreover, unplug and put away any decorations that are within your pet’s range. Avoid any mishaps by removing any potential risks before you leave.

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Some Key Rules To Consider When Keeping Your Pets At Home

  • Pet-proof gates
  • Secure your door knobs
  • Check your doors
  • Keep your blinds out of pets’ reach
  • Move anything poisonous
  • Secure your cabinets
  • Keep trash out of reach of pets
  • Keep people’s food out of reach of pets
  • Secure games and toys
  • Hide wiring and cover sockets
  • Move breakable items up high 
  • Secure the fireplace
  • Clean bowls for food and water for pets
  • Harness or slip collar for pets
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Conclusion

Pet safety is crucial, and it is the responsibility of pet owners to ensure that their home is pet-friendly which can lead to a safe environment for pets. As a pet owner, you have a number of opportunities at your home to provide better safety for your pets. Hope, our ultimate guide to keeping pets safe at home, has made you aware of every aspect that needs to be considered in pet home care.

Resources For Pet Home Safety​: