You’ve heard of baby-proofing your home, but what about puppy-proofing? We know from experience how mischievous a new puppy can be in your home. Aside from chewing up shoes and ripping up newspaper, failure to take proper precautions could result in your dog getting hurt. Here are some helpful tips to remember when considering your pet’s safety in the home:

1. Don’t Leave Harmful Food Within Reach of Your Dog

Food items like chocolate, grapes, and raisins, can be extremely harmful and even deadly for your dog. Check with your dog’s vet to confirm what should absolutely be avoided and make sure your dog isn’t anywhere near these items. This is especially important when you’re hosting a party, so make sure your guests know to be cautious as well. Make sure the poisonous foods aren’t left on countertops or couch cushions when you aren’t around. You don’t want to have to make that scary trip to the vet.

2. Protect Your Pup: Get a Fence!

Your yard should be a place for your dog to get some exercise and play. Distractions like cars going by, other dogs walking past the house, or kids riding by on their bikes can cause your dog to take off without notice. Protect him/her by putting up a fence to keep them from running into the street. Make sure to walk the perimeter every once and a while to check for holes or gaps in the fence that your dog could sneak out of.

3. Monitor Your Dog With a Home Security System

With all of the smart home technology available today, keeping an eye on your dog while you’re not home is easier than ever. You can invest in technology like security cameras or doggy GPS to keep track of your furry friend.

4. Keep Your Home Tidy

Keeping your home neat and tidy is a great way to make sure your pet stays safe. Small items like children’s toys and bobby pins can easily be swallowed by your pet, which can lead to severe internal issues. Vacuuming your floors & rugs often will ensure there is no harmful items left behind for your dog to find. This is also a great opportunity to teach your child to put away their toys when they are done playing with them.

Following these simple guidelines will help you create a safe environment for you and your dog.

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