Pet proofing – better safe than sorry

Truer words were never spoken. Particularly when it involves your dog. Pet-proofing your house or apartment, balcony or yard is a must for every responsible pet owner.

Walk through your home, looking for things a dog might climb, knock over or pull down, and either secure, remove or store them.

Keep trash cans behind closed doors and wastebaskets out of sight.

Snap specially designed plastic caps over electrical outlets and tie electrical cords together, out of reach.

Keep collections – from coins to crayons – on high shelves, and breakables on low surfaces to a minimum.

Most chemicals are hazardous for dogs and should be replaced, wherever possible, with natural, non-toxic products.

A partial list of toxic chemicals includes: antifreeze, bleach, drain cleaner, household cleaners and detergents, glue, nail polish and polish remover, paint, varnish and sealants, pesticides and rat poison.

Seemingly harmless human foods can prove lethal to dogs.

A partial list includes: alcohol, avocado, chocolate, caffeinated items, fruit pits and seeds, grapes and raisins, macadamia nuts and onions.

For dogs, even the prettiest plant can be poison. Before bringing any into your home or putting them in your garden, do your research. The list of dangerous flowering and non-flowering greenery ranges from A (aloe) to Y (yew).

The effects of ingesting these plants can cause everything from oral irritation and burning, vomiting and diarrhea, loss of appetite and depression, to coma and death.

Although prevention is the key to your dog’s well-being, accidents do happen. Be prepared. Keep a list of these phone numbers handy:

  • Your veterinarian
  • 24-hour veterinary emergency clinic
  • ASPCA Poison Control: 888-426-4435
  • Pet Poison Helpline: 800-213-6680

Hopefully, they’re numbers you’ll never use. And as long as you remain vigilant, both you and your dog can rest, assured.