Paws and Peace of Mind: How to Dog-Proof Your House and Yard
Before you welcome a new pup into your home, there are a few things you need to be prepared for, and dog-proofing your house and yard should be a priority. It’s all about keeping your dog safe while protecting your belongings from those curious paws and sharp teeth. From securing cords to making sure your yard is escape-proof, creating a safe space for your dog can make life so much easier for both of you. Let’s dive into how you can set up a secure and comfortable environment that keeps everyone happy!
Install a Fence
Any pet may escape out of curiosity, boredom, or fright, so securing your pet's perimeter is essential before welcoming a new furry friend. One great way to do this is by installing an electric dog wireless fence around your yard. This innovative solution requires no wires to run around your property, making it a hassle-free option.
The system works with a fence transmitter that emits a circular signal, which you can adjust from as little as 6.7 metres up to a 32-metre radius. If you want to create a larger boundary area, you can easily add extra wireless transmitters and overlap the signals. As your dog approaches the boundary, the collar will emit a warning beep, giving them a heads-up to stay within the safe zone.
If your dog continues past the warning and ventures outside the radio field, the collar will deliver mild static pulses until your pet returns to the designated area. There’s also a safety cut-off after 15 seconds of constant correction to prevent distress.
Setting up an electric dog wireless fence is a straightforward process. You just locate the centre of the area you want to cover and place the transmitter on a non-metallic stand or table, ensuring it sits about 1 metre above the ground and away from large metal objects. To test the signal range, listen for the warning beep from the collar and use your test light. Adjust the width as needed to give your dog as much space as possible.
You can also use a wireless dog fence as a portable solution while travelling with your dog. Simply set up the transmitter wherever you have access to electricity, test the boundary just like you would at home, and place some flags to mark the safe zone for your pup.
Remember, training your dog to understand their new boundary is crucial. Proper training ensures they know the exact limits and retreat when they hear the warning tone, keeping them safe and secure in your yard.
Secure Doors and Windows
You also need to make sure all doors and windows are securely closed and locked. External doors should remain closed or be blocked off using a pet gate or crate, limiting your dog’s access. Never leave them unattended around open windows, and use a barricade like an exercise pen to prevent direct access. Before you leave your home, don’t forget to close the windows and cover them with curtains for added security and peace of mind. And if you have a laundry room, keep the washer and dryer doors shut to avoid accidents.
Store Hazardous Items Out of Reach
Toxins are everywhere in your home, so it’s important to keep them out of reach. Store dental and beauty products that contain xylitol, as this sneaky ingredient can lead to liver failure. Medications—whether for humans or pets—are another danger, so make sure they’re locked away. Foods like chocolate, caffeine, onions, and grapes are toxic too, along with sugar-free gum or candy. Don’t forget about home repair supplies like paint and paint thinner—store those up high! By taking a few simple steps, you can create a safer environment for your furry friend and enjoy peace of mind!
Remove Harmful Plants
Removing harmful plants from your home and yard is essential for keeping your dog safe. Because dogs love to chew and explore, it's crucial to know which plants can pose a threat. Common toxic plants include lilies, azaleas, and oleander, which can lead to serious health issues, while sago palms and poinsettias can be life-threatening if ingested. Even houseplants like philodendrons and pothos are dangerous. To create a safe environment, refer to the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants or move all of the plants out of your pup's reach. This way, you’ll ensure your furry friend can explore without worry!
Control the Cords
Dogs often chew on cords, particularly when they’re younger. This habit can damage your devices and pose serious risks to your pet, such as burns or electrical shocks. To address this issue, consider investing in commercial cord organisers that bundle cables together and keep them out of reach. Cord sleeves made from plastic, metal, or rubber can provide additional protection against chewing. For an extra deterrent, applying bitter or citrus anti-chew sprays to the cords can help keep your pup away from those tempting targets.
Cover Trash Cans
Covering your trash cans is essential for any dog owner! Those smelly bags can be too tempting for curious pups, leading to potential dangers if they dig in. From leftover food to sharp objects, the trash can is a treasure trove of hazards. That said, invest in trash cans with secure lids or consider using pet-proof bins to keep your dog safe. This simple step helps prevent tummy troubles and saves you from messy clean-ups.
