Dog Safety During Home Renovations
Have you ever tired to do home renovations with a dog in the house? If you have, you know a dog can make the job much more stressful.
My husband and I purchased our first home in early 2012, and while we are perfectly happy sharing our home with our 6-year-old beagle, Daisy; we have learned that home renovations are more difficult with her around. She loves to be close to us, which means we have to be vigilant to make sure she doesn’t get hurt, or get into anything harmful. Caring for her during the renovations is a job itself.
If you are a dog owner who is planning to do work inside your home, here are some safety tips you should keep in mind to keep your pet safe.
Get a gate
Admittedly, my husband and I haven’t done much work inside our home, but what we have done has taught us how important a gate can be. In late 2012 I was doing some touch-up painting in my office, and I thought the dog was sleeping in the living room; however, that wasn’t the case. At some point she had joined me in the office and managed to sit with her tail on the paint lid. I was lucky that she only got paint on her instead of doing what she normally does which is taste everything. If she had licked the paint I would have been taking her to the veterinarian’s office instead of giving her a bath. Now, whenever I’m doing things like this I gate off the room so I know she can’t get into trouble.
Remember dogs need fresh air too
For the last month my dog has battled a mysterious cough that her doctors can’t seem to identify. As a part of her care the vet warned my husband and I to keep her away from strong fumes. We were told that the fumes from paint, cleaners, and other things can irritate the airways of healthy dogs, so it’s really important for Daisy to stay clear of them. If you are painting or using other products with strong odors you should put your dog in another part of the house or even outside until the air is clear.
Watch out for sharp objects
When the renovations are underway it’s easy to lose track of, or overlook things that can be dangerous. If your dog steps on something that is sharp he/she can injure themselves, and paw injuries can be difficult for doctors to repair. It’s best to keep your dog out of the work area, but if you can’t, you have to be sure to pick up anything that your dog could step on, bump into, or swallow.
Renovating your home is rarely enjoyable while the work is being done, and the last thing you need is the added stress of a sick or injured dog. Staying alert and knowing the possible dog dangers that are around you can help prevent painful and costly dog injuries.
More from this contributor:
3 Garden Dangers for Dogs
Your Dog Can Improve Your Social Life
Including Your Dog in Your Emergency Preparedness Plan
