Your daily dose of doggy goodness!
Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!
Dog of the Day: Theodore!
Meme of the day: So long!
Making a Home Dog Safe
Bringing a dog into your home is a joyous experience, but it also comes with a responsibility: ensuring your home is safe and secure for your four-legged friend. Dogs are naturally curious and playful, which can sometimes lead them into trouble.
Taking a few preventive steps can create a dog-friendly environment that keeps your furry companion out of harm’s way. Here’s how you can dog-proof your home effectively.
Please note this is not the definitive list of how to dog-proof a home. Depending on your home’s unique features, you may need to take additional steps.
Secure Hazardous Items
Dogs love to explore, often with their mouths. Store household chemicals, cleaning supplies, and medications in cabinets with child-proof locks or on high shelves to prevent accidental poisoning or injury. Be cautious with small objects like coins, batteries, and sewing materials, as they pose choking hazards.
Protect Electrical Cords and Outlets
Puppies, in particular, find electrical cords tempting to chew on. Use cord covers, secure cables out of reach, or invest in bitter-tasting sprays designed to deter chewing. Also, consider covering unused outlets with safety plugs to prevent curious paws and noses from getting too close.
Keep Human Food Out of Reach
Many human foods, including chocolate, grapes, onions, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol, are toxic to dogs. Store food in cabinets or high places where your dog cannot access them. If you have a dog that’s prone to counter-surfing, consider using secure storage containers with lids.
Choose Pet-Safe Plants
Houseplants add beauty to your home, but some can be toxic to dogs. Avoid plants like lilies, poinsettias, azaleas, and philodendrons, which can cause severe reactions if ingested. Research pet-friendly plants or keep toxic plants in areas that your dog cannot access.
Ensure Trash Bins Are Secure
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and may be drawn to the enticing scents in your trash can. Invest in a trash bin with a secure lid or place it inside a cabinet to prevent your pup from rummaging through potentially harmful waste. You should also do this for bathroom garbage; many pups love to eat used tissues.
Protect Your Furniture and Belongings
If your dog loves to chew, protect furniture, shoes, and other valuable items by providing appropriate chew toys. Bitter sprays can deter chewing on furniture legs and other off-limits items. Consider using baby gates to restrict access to certain areas of your home.
Create a Safe Outdoor Space
If you have a backyard, ensure it’s secure by checking for any gaps in fencing that your dog could escape through. Remove any toxic plants or hazardous objects and provide shaded areas where your dog can rest comfortably. Use a secure pool cover or fencing to prevent accidents if you have a pool.
Keep Doors and Windows Secure
Dogs can be escape artists! Keep windows screened and doors securely closed, especially when you’re not home. Consider installing pet-proof screens or window guards if your dog is particularly curious.
Be Mindful of Small Spaces
Dogs, especially smaller breeds, can squeeze into tight spaces. Check under furniture, behind appliances, and in closets for areas where your dog might get stuck or find dangerous objects. Block off access to these areas if necessary.
Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation
A bored dog is more likely to get into mischief. Provide plenty of toys, exercise, and interactive activities to keep your pup engaged and satisfied. A well-exercised dog is less likely to seek entertainment by chewing on furniture or getting into household items.
One Last Safety Check
Dog-proofing your home may require some effort, but it’s worth it to ensure your furry friend’s safety and happiness. By taking proactive steps and staying vigilant, you can create a space where your dog can thrive without unnecessary risks. After all, a safe home means a happy pup—and a stress-free pet parent!
So, get down on all fours, take a look around from your dog’s perspective, and start making those adjustments today. Your pup will thank you with endless tail wags and love!
Family Photo of the Day: Wallace!
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Sources:
Dog of the day: IG lmnbulldog
Meme of the day: IG tankthebrownlab