Listly by Julia Nikolaus
If you’re a pet parent, you’re probably already familiar with the many benefits of having one of these adorable creatures. Because your cute critter does so much for you, it deserves something in return – safety. Here are a few ways to protect your pet.
The outdoors can be a dangerous place for your pet if you let it explore freely. To ensure your pet stays in your yard, consider installing a fence.
Alternatively, dogs can jump high and dig but can’t climb. A tall no-dig dog fence with a wire barrier under the ground can help keep your pup contained. The underground barrier should have a lip that faces toward the enclosure, ultimately stopping your dog from digging its way out.
Since cats are notorious for climbing, a cat fence should include a roof, overhead netting, or an apparatus at the top that rotates, safely dropping your cat back in your yard during an escape attempt. If you add catio accessories, such as steps or ledges, you should definitely opt for a full enclosure, so your cat doesn’t use them to climb higher and jump out.
Pets that go outside, even if they’re on a leash or in a fenced yard, may still escape. To give yourself the best chance of reuniting with your furry loved one, you should put a type of identifier on your pet. Consider using one of the following:
If you have a small pet, such as a ferret, rat, or rabbit, you need to provide it with a safe space so it can run around and burn off some energy. You can only protect your pet if you watch over it while it plays, as smaller animals, especially rodents, tend to chew on wires or carpets if left unattended.
Make an arrangement with someone you trust to care for your pets, whether that means taking care of your dog or feeding fish when you are away.
A pet sitter can perform simple pet-related duties, such as changing an aquarium filter, or more critical tasks, like ensuring your dog gets its daily medication.
Caring for your pet’s pearly whites can help prevent it from developing severe dental problems, including periodontal disease. Pets with dental issues may suffer from broken teeth, bad breath, drooling, or the inability to eat or drink.
To keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy, you can brush its teeth, use a water additive, or give it treats or chews explicitly manufactured to promote dental health.
Pets can get into trouble, especially if you don’t pet-proof your home. Here are some ways to keep your home safe for your pet:
Keeping any animal in a car is dangerous. If it’s hot, your furry friend can overheat, suffocate, or dehydrate. Even if the external temperature is comfortable, the sun’s rays coming through the windshield can quickly heat your car, which may lead to the same detrimental outcomes.
Make sure you take your pet to the vet regularly and keep its vaccinations up to date. Vaccinations help protect your pet from getting various illnesses and spreading them to your family or other pets.
Because your pet gives you so much joy, you shouldn’t think twice about giving it the much-needed protection it has earned. By keeping your cuddly critter safe, you can ensure it stays by your side for years to come.