How to Make Your Home Safer for Your Pets

by John Colby 11/15/2023

Pets can fill your home with joy and provide you with unconditional love and companionship. However, they can also end up getting into trouble or being mischievous at times, which is why it's important to make your home as safe as possible. You can turn your home into a more pet-friendly place with the following tips.

Keep Hazardous Items Out of Reach

Cleaning products, medications and other items can be dangerous for pets to ingest. Go through your home, and make sure these items are stored in a place your pets can't reach. You can even put childproof latches on cabinet doors to prevent curious dogs or cats from being able to open them.

Cover or Hide Cords and Wires

Some pets might play with or chew cords and wires they find lying around your home, which can lead to electric shocks and burns. Place cords and wires out of sight and out of reach to prevent this from happening.

Secure Your Trash Cans

Pets shouldn't be able to knock over or get into your trash cans. Doing so can cause a mess, but it also makes it easy for your pets to eat something that could harm them. Make sure your kitchen trash can has a secure lid, or store your can in a closed cabinet.

Store All Food

Don't leave food out on counters or on the table when you have pets. Some pets can jump onto these surfaces to reach food, while others are tall enough to easily grab food items left out. Store all food in your pantry, fridge or cabinets, so your pets can't get any. This helps prevent your pets from consuming foods that could make them sick, such as chocolate and grapes, which can harm dogs.

Choose Houseplants Carefully

Some houseplants are toxic to dogs, cats or both, so choose these wisely. Research any houseplants you want to bring home first to make sure they're safe for your pets. When you do have houseplants around, put them in places your pets can't easily reach. Keep in mind you can decorate with silk

About the Author
Author

John Colby

I have lived in the Athol-Orange-Phillipston  area for most of my life. I graduated from the Athol-Royalston Schools and Boston College in 1973.  I have been an active real estate  Broker since 1973.. I have First hand knowledge of all the various aspects of working and living in our area.
For over 40 years I have  maintained a presence in the real estate market through building new homes while buying and selling all types of real estate. I offer first hand knowledge and experience to Buyers and Sellers in our unique market area . I also have a keen interest in Waterfront properties, land and income properties. We are also currently focused on bringing new businesses into our area including  Commercial , Mixed Use and Retail Development along the Rt 2 corridor including into the North Quabbin Business Park and the Greater Gardner to Athol-Orange areas.
   I will to give you the benefit of my training and experience and the most personal service and attention that you deserve.