Taking in a new pet can be both exciting and full of challenges. For pet owners, one of these challenges is learning how to keep your living space free from pet wear and tear. However, it does not have to be a daunting task: here are several easy ways to pet-proof your new home.
Paw-Proof Your Home
No matter which type of pet you plan on adopting, you will have to anticipate the occasional mess–especially when it comes to pets with paws. After a muddy walk, an eager puppy could accidentally track mud throughout your home. To keep your floors clean, keep paw wipes on hand at all times. Additionally, you can buy couch covers to protect spaces where your pet likes to relax. These covers will also prevent your couch from becoming a chew toy.
But dog-proofing does not stop here. To be proactive about accidents, place puppy pads throughout your home. Puppy pads are necessary for any pet owner and can be purchased online or at your local pet store. If you have a new puppy who is not house-trained, puppy pads give you an opportunity to begin the training process on a small scale. By using positive reinforcement–like giving treats or offering praise–whenever your pet successfully uses the pads, they will learn to follow this routine in no time.
Cabinets, Wires, and Knick-Knacks
Naturally, pets are curious about their environment. But curiosity can lead to climbing, chewing, and other behaviors that help them familiarize themself with their new space. Although this behavior is not inherently wrong, it can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken.
Most importantly, you should keep precious items–like breakables and knick-knacks–on unreachable shelves. For kittens who love to climb, keep dangerous or toxic substances out of their reach.
To keep pets in designated spaces, pet-proofing a home can involve installing gates or child-proof latches. You can find these useful items at many pet stores and easily set them up yourself. For example, pet gates are a great way to prevent your pet from going upstairs, getting into trouble, or even just interrupting your quiet time. Other pet-proofing techniques that can give you peace of mind include hiding dangerous wires and locking medicine cabinets with cleaning supplies cabinets.
Protect Your Pet
It is not only important to protect your pet within the home, but you should also keep an eye on them outside–especially in unfamiliar places. Finally, ensure that you know your pet’s allergies and other foods that are toxic to animals. For example, dogs should avoid the following foods:
- Chocolate
- Caffeine
- Apples (seeds)
- Peaches
- Grapes
- Alcohol
Try out these simple ways to pet-proof your new house in State College’s Orchard View community. Ready to get started? Then contact us to learn more about Orchard View and begin construction on your dream home.