Dog Safety Precautions When You’re Not at Home
As a pet owner, you want the best for your furry friend. You feed them the best food, give them regular exercise, and provide them with all the love they need.
But what about when you’re not home? Leaving your dog alone for an extended period of time can be an anxiety-inducing experience, both for you and your pet.
To ease your worries and ensure your dog’s safety, here are some dog safety precautions you can take when you’re not at home.
Keeping Things Away
Your home is full of dangers that could potentially harm your dog. Hazardous objects such as sharp tools, chemicals, and medications should be kept out of reach.
The same goes for food items and garbage bins with latches, as dogs have a tendency to dig through trash. Electrical wires should be secured, and dog plush toys, beds, and mats should be inspected regularly for any damage.
Cabinets should be closed, and if necessary, child-proof cabinet locks should be installed to prevent dogs from getting into dangerous products.
Hiring a Dog Sitter
Leaving your dog alone for hours at a time can be stressful for both you and your pet. Hiring a dog sitter or dog walker can help alleviate some of that stress.
A dog sitter can maintain your dog’s routine while you’re away, keeping them fed, hydrated, and comfortable. A dog walker can provide regular exercise, which is essential for a dog’s well-being.
It’s important to do your due diligence when hiring a dog sitter, as you want someone reliable and trustworthy.
Using Technology
We live in a tech-savvy world, and pet technology is no exception. Pet cameras are a great way to keep an eye on your dog when you’re not around.
The Pawbo+ Wi-Fi interactive pet camera and treat dispenser allows you to see and talk to your dog, while also dispensing treats. The Petcube Bites Wi-Fi pet camera and treat dispenser offers similar features, with the added bonus of being able to remotely play with your dog using a laser toy.
A dog GPS collar is a useful tool for tracking your dog’s location, particularly if they tend to wander. Additionally, alarm systems can alert you to any potential dangers, such as a fire or break-in.
Crating Your Dog
If your dog is crate trained, this can be an effective way to keep them safe when you’re not home. A crate that is appropriately sized and contains a comfortable bed and toys can provide a secure and familiar space for your dog.
It’s important to create positive associations with the crate, such as feeding your dog in the crate and offering treats and praise. Rubber dog toys are a good choice for crates, as they are durable and can help reduce anxiety.
Separating Multiple Dogs
If you have more than one dog, it’s important to take precautions to prevent fights and potential injuries. A dog gate can be used to separate dogs when necessary, and dog crates can also be used to give each dog their own space.
It’s important to monitor your dogs’ behavior and to avoid leaving them unsupervised for long periods of time.
Providing Your Dog With Entertainment
Dogs need mental and physical stimulation, and providing them with appropriate forms of entertainment can help prevent boredom. Dog-friendly items to chew on, such as antlers or bully sticks, can keep your dog occupied.
Dog interactive toys, like puzzle feeders or treat balls, can give your dog a mental challenge and a reward. The KONG Classic dog toy, when filled with peanut butter or another dog-friendly filling, can provide long-lasting entertainment.
Background noise can also be helpful, such as leaving the TV or radio on.
Closing Your Windows
Open windows can be an alluring danger to dogs, as they can jump through them or get stuck. It’s important to securely close and lock windows before leaving your home to prevent any potential accidents.
Not Leaving Your Pet in the Yard Unsupervised
While it may seem like a good idea to leave your dog in the yard while you’re away, it can be a safety concern. The hot summer sun can cause sunburn, dehydration, and burnt paw pads.
Heatstroke can also be a concern for dogs who are left in the sun for too long. Additionally, unsupervised dogs can dig under fences or jump over them, potentially getting lost or injured.
Using Emergency Decals
In the event of an emergency, it’s important to let emergency responders know that there are pets in the home. Imagine This Company “Rescue Our Pets” decals can be placed in a visible location to alert first responders.
It’s also a good idea to let your neighbors know that you have pets, in case of an emergency. By taking these dog safety precautions, you can have peace of mind knowing that your dog is safe and comfortable while you’re not home.
Remember to always prioritize your dog’s well-being and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents. Leaving your dog alone for long periods of time can be an anxiety-inducing experience, but there are ways to ensure their safety.
Keeping hazardous objects away, hiring a dog sitter, using technology, crating your dog, separating multiple dogs, providing entertainment, closing windows, not leaving pets unsupervised in the yard, and using emergency decals are all important precautions to take. By prioritizing your dog’s well-being and taking necessary precautions, you can have peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is safe and secure while you’re away.
Remember to be responsible and take the necessary steps to prevent unfortunate accidents from occurring.