How safe is your Dog in your Home?

Every week All About Dogs covers a newsworthy topic that matters to dog owners. We want to help dog owners stay informed about the important things in the wonderful world of dogs - without searching the Internet for hours. That time is better spent doing something special for your dog! 

This week we ask if your home and yard are safe for your dog?   

Your home should be your dog’s safe place – but unfortunately it can also cause injury or accidents to happen to him. He can be poisoned, hurt, get sick – all happening by ‘accident’. To prevent something hurtful happening to your dog in your home or yard, you need to be aware of the dangers lurking, and make the environment as safe as possible for him. 

The dangers in your home. 

Dogs are inquisitive - they use their sense of smell, taste, and sight to explore anything that catches their attention. With so many interesting objects and smells in a home, it’s no wonder dogs can get into mischief, hurt themselves, or get sick - if they’re allowed to explore freely in a home that’s not ‘dog proof’. So, how do you make your home a safe haven for your dog? 

Be aware of the specific dangers lurking in your home. 

•  Electric cords and wires are everywhere – in the family room, kitchen, study, bedroom – there's hardly a room where there’s not a phone, tablet, laptop, TV, or other electric device. And most of them have a wire that dogs (particularly puppies) can find interesting and start chewing. Unplug unused devices and hide or cover live wires. 
• Food, or anything that looks edible, attracts a dog’s attention. But there are  foods that are dangerous to dogs. That piece of chocolate on the coffee table, some grapes in the kitchen … be vigilant to keep food that can be dangerous to your dog away from her. 
• There is increased awareness of the toxins that we and our dogs are exposed to. The toxins that can harm your dog are mostly in the cleaning products you use. Keep these products locked away where the dog can’t reach them. When they’re used, keep the dog away from the area. Even better, use natural products for as much cleaning as possible.. 
• Stairs and balconies can be a hazard to an unsuspecting and inquisitive dog. Use a baby/puppy gate to keep your dog away from dangerous stairs, or from going into places where he is not allowed (or that are dangerous to him). A crate can be a good way to keep a dog away from a dangerous place. But, only for a short time and if she sees her crate as a safe place that she's been trained to use.  
• Some plants can be toxic to dogs (and cats), both inside and outside the home.  This list from the ASPCA provides information about toxic plants, and what to do if your pet comes into contact with one.  
• Choking on or swallowing an object is another danger to dogs – and not only to inquisitive puppies. Be aware of things your dog may want to put in his mouth – either stuff on the floor or within his reach. This includes pieces of old toys, or anything he chewed on and where a piece may have broken off. Dogs will eat virtually anything – including homework, passports, money ... like the TV series “My dog ate WHAT?” showed a few years ago. Take him to the vet if you suspect he ate something dangerous. But prevention is the best way to avert your dog from becoming sick (even dying) or running up costly vet bills. 
• Dogs just love smelly things – and none more than garbage. Keep garbage containers inside and outside the home firmly closed. And away from the road on garbage collection day – nobody likes a torn-up garbage bag! 

Keep in mind that a dog’s perspective of a room is different from yours – be aware of things in her line of sight. What can she see and reach? If you have a Great Dane - keep the counter clean when he’s around! Although, no dog should be allowed access to a counter as this can be dangerous and costly.  

There are dangers in virtually every room in your home. Be aware and act proactive – it can save you trouble, money, and your dog’s life.   

The dangers outside. 

When your dog has access to an outside yard or garden, this space also needs to be safe for him. A sturdy fence that’ll prevent him from getting outside is the first thing to see too. This includes height, gates, and places where she can dig a hole under the fence. A dog that escapes her yard is a danger to herself and other people and can get lost or stolen. 

Garbage has been mentioned, so check that he can’t get to any garbage outside – either yours or the neighbors’. Garden tools, toxins you use outside, and anything that can hurt a dog should be kept locked. When you or somebody works in the garden, she should either be kept somewhere else, or be supervised – particularly when you use toxic products. A swimming pool can also be a danger and even if he loves to swim, there should be a human around to keep an eye on him.  

Do you have tips to keep a home safe for a dog? Let us know in the comments.