Buying a pet can be similar to suddenly having a child in the house – except that they can walk straight away! In fact, many principles that are associated with baby-proofing a home can be applied to puppies and kittens – just be aware that they are a bit more mobile. A kitten can climb and scratch everything, while a puppy will be tearing up everything with its teeth.
While it is important to care for your pet by feeding them properly, giving them clean water, and throwing their bedding in the washing machine now and again, you also have to make sure there are no immediate dangers. With so many electrical items, as well as fragile items, it is important for your pet’s safety and your sanity.
1. In the Kitchen
Kitchens are not so bad for pets, and they can’t do too much damage here either. However, there are usually chemicals, and other things kept under sinks, that should be kept away from your pets. If you have a curious critter that likes to get into the kitchen, then make sure everything is out of reach.
2. In the Backyard
The backyard is the most dangerous place for your pet, but you can easily make it pet-friendly as well. Start with these simple tips:
- Have your garden sprayed for spiders, so your pet is not in danger.
- Check your perimeter fence to make sure your pet isn’t digging its way out.
- Keep any garden chemicals stored away to avoid your pet ingesting anything nasty.
3. Out the Front
The front of your home is mostly dangerous because of cars, and any nearby roads or streets. If your pet can get out the front door of your home, then you need to secure it. A lot of animals can get overexcited when their owner is home, and you don’t want your pet to run out in front of your car.
4. Around the Living Room
The living room is not too bad, but there are a lot of electrical cords lying around. Kittens and puppies love to play with cords, so try and keep them together, and have them covered if you can. Also, try not to leave anything on the coffee table that a pet could climb up and get. This goes for food as well, as all animals should eat specific pet food and not the same cuisine as you.
Insuring Your Pet
Pet insurance is one way to make sure you have enough money to help your pet should anything go wrong around the house. If you have had pets before, you will know the costs that come up in relation to vet fees, so it pays to be prepared. Even if you don’t want insurance, you should at least keep some cash aside, in case you need to pay for your pet’s treatment.
Make sure you double-check your home before bringing your pet home, if you can. While there will be things that you miss, it will help make your house more pet-friendly from the beginning.
