For many people looking to get a pet, there’s a temptation to go out and get one as soon as you can, but you need to make sure your house is pet-ready before you bring home your new furry friend. The reality is that pets have different needs than people do, and they need an environment that’s safe for them, which often requires removing some hazards and investing a little time into pet-proofing your home before starting the adoption process. If you’re thinking about bringing a new pet into your household, read on to find out more about how to find out if your home is ready for a new pet, and how to fix it if it isn’t.
What products do I need for a new pet?
Naturally, the species of your pet will determine what pet products you need at home. Cats and dogs are the most common domestic animals to own in the United States, and they require some similar basics. For any pet, like dogs, that you intend to take outside, you’ll need to be able to do so safely, which requires a reliable leash or harness. JoyrideHarness offers some of the best harnesses, leashes, and accessories on the market, so their website is a good place to start looking. You want to make sure the harness fits snugly around your pet’s chest, so that they can’t slip out, without being tight enough to cause discomfort. Your pet will also need somewhere to be active. A backyard is often the most convenient space, but you should consider a fence if you’re planning on allowing your pet to play in the yard frequently. Without a fence, it’s always a good idea to keep your pet on a leash at all times.
You’ll need to obtain whatever products and equipment you’ll need to feed your pet, which can be as simple as buying a bowl and some dog food or as complicated as obtaining live crickets for a reptile or a snake. You’ll also need health supply products and medication. The best way to find recommendations for those things is to talk to your vet, as different types of animals and even different breeds can have varying nutritional needs.
How do I keep my home safe for my pet?
What methods are best for keeping your pet safe in your home depend heavily, of course, on the type of pet that you have. For pets who you plan to allow to roam the house, like cats and dogs, evaluate everything in the house that would be at their eye level. You may not realize it, but they might have easy access to all kinds of harmful products they could ingest, or have a way to slip out of a room that you aren’t aware of. You’ll also want to make sure all garbage cans have lids that close and can’t be easily opened.
You have to be extra careful in the kitchen, not just because of all of the common accidents that occur in the kitchen (like falling knives or hot liquid), but also because your pet might have serious food sensitivities. Dogs, for example, can’t eat things like chocolate, eggs, or several kinds of fruit, so if you’re cooking, make sure you wash up thoroughly when you’re finished. Everything from kitchen knives to the heat from the stove can be a danger to curious pets who are wandering around, and you don’t want to end up in the emergency room because you didn’t remember to clean. Read up on what your dog can or can’t eat, if you’re not familiar with the full list.
Pet safety is of the utmost importance to any responsible pet owner, and keeping your pet safe starts with giving them a home where they can play and feel comfortable without having hazards like sharp objects or doors to the outside left wide open. If you’re unsure if something in your house is safe, or if you need help with a redesign, don’t be afraid to reach out to a professional to talk about your concerns and get some tips for keeping your pet well-cared for. Getting a pet requires a real investment in terms of money and time, and the changes to your living space can take some adjusting to, but it’ll all be worth it to provide a safe, happy home for your pet where you can both enjoy every day together.
