Many Americans love their pets and consider them members of the family. Pets can provide companionship, love, and security and are often regarded as therapeutic. Americans spend billions of dollars yearly on pet food, veterinary care, and other pet-related expenses. Some people even choose to have their pets certified as service animals to get special access to public places.
It’s also estimated that 90 million American families own a pet. These pets require a lot of care, especially inside your home. You must pet-proof your home if you want them to be safe and comfortable. Here are the five essentials of a pet-proofed home:
Install a Gate
Most pets like dogs and cats are inherently curious. They enjoy exploring their surroundings and often get into things they’re not supposed to. To keep your pet safe, you should install a gate at the entrance of your home. This will prevent them from getting into areas they’re not supposed to be in and getting hurt.
There are many kinds of gates in the market. However, if you want the best for your pets, you should check out electric wooden gates. These gates have specific functions, such as a two-way entry that allows your pet to come in and out of the house. It also has an adjustable width, so you can easily customize it depending on the size of your doorways.
Other options include a pressure-mounted gate, which is easy to install and remove. You can also use it for temporary purposes, such as when you have visitors over.
Keep Your Pet Away From Toxic Plants
If you love gardening, then you should be aware of plants that are toxic to your pets. Some common plants that are poisonous to animals include lilies, azaleas, and rhododendrons. When these plants are ingested, they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.
To pet-proof your home, you should remove all toxic plants from your garden and replace them with safe alternatives. Some of the best plant alternatives include herbs, such as mint and basil. These plants are safe for your pets and have health benefits.
Mint, for example, can help relieve an upset stomach. On the other hand, Basil is rich in antioxidants and can help boost your pet’s immune system.
Use Pet-Proof Cleaning Products
Pets are sensitive to chemicals, just like humans. However, they’re even more susceptible because they spend a lot of time on the floor where they can breathe in toxic fumes. That’s why you should use pet-proof cleaning products when cleaning your home. Products with ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon are safe for your pets and won’t harm them.
You should also avoid using bleach when cleaning your home. Bleach is a strong chemical that can cause respiratory problems in pets. If you must use it, make sure to ventilate the area well and keep your pet out of the room until the fumes have
You should also look for products made with natural ingredients that are safe for pets and humans. You can find these kinds of products online or in pet stores. When buying these products, read the label carefully to see if it’s safe for your pets.
Consider Getting a Pet Fountain
Pets need to stay hydrated, especially in the summer. You should consider getting a pet fountain if you don’t want them to drink from your toilet or kitchen sink. Pet fountains are designed to provide fresh, filtered water for your pets. They’re also easy to use and can be placed anywhere in your home.
There are many different kinds of pet fountains available in the market. However, if you want the best for your pet, you should check out ceramic pet fountains. These fountains are made with high-quality materials and have filters that remove impurities from the water.
Get an Automatic Pet Feeder
You should get an automatic pet feeder if you have a busy lifestyle. This device will dispense the right amount of food at the scheduled time. It’s also a great way to ensure your pets get enough to eat if you’re not home all day.
There are many different kinds of automatic pet feeders available in the market. However, if you want the best for your pet, you should check out gravity-fed automatic pet feeders. These feeders slow the eating process and prevent your pet from overeating. The estimated cost of this is around $25 to $50.
Your pets deserve the best. That’s why you should pet-proof your home to ensure their safety. By following these tips, you can rest assured knowing your pets are safe and sound in your home.
