When you bring a new puppy into the home, you are taking on an enormous responsibility. Having a puppy around is like having a new baby, except they are far more mobile right from the start. Keep the following tips in mind to help you get ready.
Set Up Barriers
The most practical way to puppy-proof your home is by setting up various barriers between different parts of the house. Gates and locks are particularly valuable in this instance. Simply install them in the same places you would not want a baby to go, such as cabinets or private areas like the bathroom and bedroom. These will limit your puppy’s ability to cause trouble and potentially get injured. Blocking the stairs is of paramount importance.
All types of heat source can be dangerous. Ensure fireplaces, wood stoves and ovens are screened off. Never ever leave your puppy on their own in a room with any of these items.
Remove Potential Toxins
Please read up on which plants are toxic and ensure they are out of reach. Alternatively, replace them with nontoxic plants. Toxic plants often found indoors include Azalea, Calla lily, and Philodendron. All cleaning products should be kept in high or locked cupboards. Childproof latches are a wise investment. Bleach bottles should not be left next to the toilet and all shampoos should be well out of reach.
All medications should be locked away in a cabinet that the puppy cannot reach.This includes vitamins and supplements that are often left on kitchen counters or bedside tables. Plastic containers are no match for a determined puppy.
In addition, many human foods are toxic to pets. These included chocolate and onions. Read more about human foods that are dangerous for dogs here. All tobacco products (including nicotine gum and patches) contain toxic substances that can be fatal to dogs, so lock those up as well. Also, don’t forget to read our article on the most common toxins killing our pets.
Remember That Puppies Eat and Chew Anything
Ensure trash cans in the bathroom and kitchen are tall or high up so that your puppy cannot get into them. Sanitary napkins, razors, sharp cans, used tea bags and bones will be chewed on without a second thought.Electrical cords are deadly. Make sure you tie up loose electrical cords and use cable wraps, cord concealers or PVC piping to prevent your puppy from getting to them. Cords on drapes, curtains and blinds can cause strangulation. Puppies love to chew and play with them so please remember to tie up the excess cording or cut them shorter.
All small items such as money, jewelry, sewing equipment and office equipment, such as paper clips, should be tidied away in their own box out of reach. Be disciplined about tidying these small items away. Be particularly careful around holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas where there tend to be more items such as decorations for your puppy to investigate.
And Finally..
Keep all windows and doors shut, all toilet lids down, keep cat litter boxes out of reach, then take a deep breath and enjoy your wonderful new friend. Good luck and follow LovePets for more tips on having a happy, healthy life with your dog.
Photo ©iStock.com/jeanfrooms
