Bringing home a new pet is a big responsibility. It changes your routine, introduces new challenges and can give you a newfound sense of purpose. However, there's a lot more to getting a pet than opening your heart and buying a few supplies. Preparing for your new pet by making sure your home is a safe place is a must.
This can be an overwhelming time, especially for those new to pet ownership. It's always helpful to have some guidance, especially when it comes to something as important as safety. Here are three must-dos to ensure your home is safe and ready for your new pet.
1. Keep Your Pet Cool on Hot Days
Did you know that one of the leading causes of health issues or death for pets is extreme heat? While unpleasant to think about, knowing the ins and outs of heat safety is essential.
If your home gets uncomfortably hot during the warmer months, be sure to think about how you'll beat the heat for the sake of your pet. Installing air conditioning would be a big help, offering peace of mind that your pet will always have a cool and comfortable living space to enjoy.
Running these units can add up quickly, making your energy bills tough to manage. However, in addition to purchasing energy-efficient units there are other ways to cut down on energy consumption. This is an ideal time to determine if you should buy solar panel for home to accomplish this.
Having a cooling mat and even frozen treats on hand for your pet will be a welcome addition to those long and hot days as well.
2. Get To Know Your Houseplants
Before bringing your new pet home, taking inventory of your houseplants and doing research on each one could save your pet's life. Doing this is a must, especially if you're bringing home a curious puppy or kitten.
However, there are a few houseplants that are considered safe — so even if you end up re-homing some, you can fill your space with other plants that are more pet-friendly.
Take the time to cruise around your landscape as well, checking out existing plants or shrubs. If your pet will be spending time outdoors, you'll want to make sure you secure any harmful plantings with fencing or other pet-deterrent measures.
3. Make Your Yard Pet-Friendly
Depending on the type of pet you're bringing home, some yard work may be in order. This is a good idea not only for safety reasons, but for the comfort and security of you and your pet as well.
Installing an underground electric fence will help to contain your pet in the yard but be prepared for a training period first. This shouldn't take too long as long as you're consistent. There are also wireless electric fence units which are a better option for some, whether it's due to the coverage needed or flexibility in location (such as weekend camping trips!).
Physical fencing is an even more secure boundary option but choose your fence height wisely. For instance, some breeds of dogs have incredible jumping capability and would have no problem clearing a four or five-foot fence. Since fencing is an investment and takes time to install, you don't want to rush this part.
Having temporary shelter outside is also a great idea, especially for dogs and outdoor cats looking for relief from the sun or a passing shower. You might already have that thanks to full trees or shrubbery, but if not you can easily create a lean-to structure to provide shade or protection or purchase a portable dog tent. Don't forget to set out a kiddie pool on hot days as well.
Creating a safe home for your pet isn't complicated and shouldn't take too much time at all. You'll be able to enjoy your time together even more when you're comfortable knowing your home is a secure, healthy and happy place for your new companion.
About the Author:
Mia Morales is a loving wife and mother of twins from Colorado. She is a self-described “DIY addict”, and loves to decorate her house and office with her creations. As a mother, Mia is really passionate about health, nutrition, and what she puts in her body. When she’s not writing, you can find her with a glass of mint lemon water and a child on each hip. Who says moms aren’t superheroes?
