Puppyproofing 101

Are you planning on adopting a dog soon? Congratulations! There are few happier times in life than the day you bring your new canine companion home for the first time. The first few days with little Fido can be both exciting and hectic. One of the numerous items on your agenda? Petproofing. Continue reading for advice from a local Middletown, KY veterinarian on puppyproofing.

What is Puppyproofing Used For?

Dogs are quite intelligent, but you can’t really just explain to your pet why eating that shoe or remote control is a bad idea. As a result, you will need to conduct some puppyproofing.

Puppyproofing, as the name implies, is similar to childproofing. The essential principle remains the same: keep anything you don’t want your child (or in this case, pet) chewing safely out of reach. Both puppies and youngsters are extremely curious and prefer to inspect things by, well, eating them. This can be really harmful. Many things present choking and/or strangling hazards. Others may be poisonous or have the potential to inflict internal damage.

What Should I Consider When Puppyproofing?

Many things should be considered dangerous for your puppy. That’s a large list, and we can’t possibly cover everything on it. But without further ado, here are the most important issues to address:

Small or Sharp Objects

Anything small or sharp is a choking risk. Most of these items can also cause serious—and potentially life-threatening—internal damage if ingested. 

Here are a few examples:

• Jewelry
• Craft Kit Pieces
• Small toys
• Beads
• Buttons
• Hair ties
• Rubber Bands
• Coins
• Pens, pencils, and markers.
• Lighters
• Lipstick
• Remote controls
• Batteries
• Fishing tackle

Chemicals

The average household includes at least 62 chemicals, the majority of which are unsafe for dogs. Remember that Fido doesn’t have to eat chemicals to get sick. He can absorb them simply by going across a treated area and licking his paws.

Cleaning materials, drain openers, detergents, paint, paint thinner, WD-40, art supplies, glue, caulking, and more should be addressed here. Just store any chemicals in a secure location.

Garden Products

You should also use caution when using lawn and garden products. Fertilizers, insecticides, and fungicides are among the most harmful products available. Slug bait, for example, is quite harmful.

Automotive Products

Anything that you might use on a car is also dangerous. Antifreeze is of great relevance here. It is dangerous to pets, yet it has a flavor that many people enjoy. Choose pet-safe products and clean up spills immediately. Sand or kitty litter can be used to cover damp spots.

Plants

Plants can make any home feel snug and pleasant, but you must exercise caution if you have a puppy. Many are harmful to Man’s Best Friend. The sago palm may be the most harmful.

Here are some more risky ones:

• Lily
• Oleander
• Azalea
• Amaryllis
• Cyclamen
• Tulips
• Aloe Daffodils
• Yew
• Autumn crocus
• Rhododendron
• Dieffenbachia
• Chrysanthemum
• Hyacinth
• Mistletoe
• English ivy
• Holly
• Hydrangea
• Ivy
• Sago Palm
• Castor bean

Common herbs include widow’s-thrill, foxglove, and jade plant.

For a complete list of safe and dangerous plants, visit the ASPCA website.

Plastics

Plastics can be found in literally thousands of goods nowadays. You usually don’t have to worry too much about larger, more durable objects, but wraps and bags require special care.

Garbage

The dustbin may not appeal to us, but it might be an exciting addition for a dog. Unfortunately, waste often contains hazardous substances, such as bones, can lids, fat trimmings, and wrappers. If your dog is tall enough to reach the garbage, use a container with a covered lid.

Ropes and Cords

Anything lengthy or stringy is highly dangerous for pets. These are not only choking and strangulation concerns, but they can be fatal if consumed. Strings, ropes, drape ties, threads, fishing line, and ribbon are all dangerous.

Of fact, electric lines can be extremely dangerous. If feasible, consider moving wires out of the way. You can treat them with a taste deterrent or use wire-hiding solutions.

What Are Some Puppy Proofing Tips?

No matter how diligently you puppyproof your home, there will always be some room for mischief. 

Here are a few things to consider:

• Pick up everything on the floor or within your paws’ reach.
• Think twice before storing items where your pet can access them. Books, socks, and other common goods are fair game.
• keep an eye on your pet. Whenever Fido is out of sight and things seem unusually calm … go check on him.
• Get on your hands and knees and observe the world at your pet’s eye level. You might be surprised by how many things you see from that perspective!
• Don’t skip petucation. Training should begin right away. It’s never too early to start teaching your pet what is and isn’t appropriate to chew. Making sure your pet listens when you tell him not to chew or play with something could actually save his life!

Ask your veterinarian for training advice for your canine friend.

Puppy Proofing Hack: Keep Fido Occupied

You can’t blame Man’s Best Friend for getting into mischief when he has nothing else to do. You’ll also need to give some safe, suitable chews. Ask your veterinarian for advice on this, as it may differ from pup to pup and will change as your pet ages.

Here are some good choices:

• Bully Sticks
• Himalayan Chews
• Antlers
• Collagen Chews
• Hooves Balls
• Kong 
• Nylon Bones
• Rubber Chew Toys

Options may include rawhide, pigs’ ears, and raw bones. As you may be aware, some of these can be harmful to certain dogs, particularly heavy chewers. Ask your veterinarian for particular guidance on these. Also, no matter what type of products you get Fido, make sure to replace them regularly so your cute companion does not become bored. Also, never leave your dog unattended with a chew.

What Other Things Should I Keep in Mind?

While we’ve covered the major concerns, we should point out that there is still plenty of room for mischief depending on your canine companion’s personality. One dog may try to eat at the coffee table. Another may choose books or coasters, while a third may be more interested in lavatory rubbish.

Finally, don’t think you can quit puppyproofing after your pet reaches full size. Adult dogs—and even seniors—continue to cause mischief. Better safe than sorry!

Book An Appointment At Our Middletown, Ky Animal Clinic!

Do you have any queries concerning puppyproofing? Have you lately adopted a puppy? Please do not hesitate to contact us for any of your dog’s veterinarian care needs. As your local Middletown, KY pet clinic, we are here to assist!