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 may be hectic. One of the numerous items on your agenda? Petproofing. A local Tampa, FL vet weighs in on that in this article.

What is Puppyproofing Used For?

Puppyproofing, as the name implies, is similar to childproofing in several aspects. The essential principle remains the same: keep anything you don’t want your child 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 ability to inflict internal damage.

Dogs are quite intelligent, but you can’t expect to succeed by simply explaining to your pet why eating that shoe or remote control is a bad idea. As a result, you will need to conduct some puppy proofing.

What Should I Consider When Puppyproofing?

Many things are dangerous to puppies. In fact, little Fido has a knack for getting into the last thing you would expect. That said, there are definitely some common hazards.

Without further ado, here are the most important issues to address:

Small or Sharp Objects

Anything small or sharp is dangerous. Here are just a few things to be careful of:

• Jewelry
• Craft Kit Pieces
• Small toys
• Beads
• Buttons
• Coins
• Pens
• Pencils
• Markers
• Lighters
• Lipstick
• Remote controls
• Batteries
• Fishing tackle

Chemicals

The average household includes dozens or even hundreds of 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.

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 extremely toxic to dogs.

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 spills.

Plants

Plants can make any home feel welcoming and pleasant, but you must exercise caution if you have a puppy. Many are harmful to Man’s Best Friend.

Here are some of the more toxic 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

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

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 should be kept out of paws’ reach.

Garbage

The dustbin may not appeal to us, but it might be an exciting addition for a dog. Unfortunately, waste often contains hazardous substances for dogs. The list includes 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 harmful to 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 very dangerous.

In 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.

• Make it a habit to 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.
• We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to keep an eye on your pet. When little Fido is out of sight and things seem unusually calm … Your best bet will be to go check.
• Get on your hands and knees and observe the world through your pet’s eye level. You might be surprised by how many things you see from that perspective!
• Training should begin right away. It’s never too early to start teaching your pet what is and isn’t appropriate to chew!

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 chewables. You should consult 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
• Kongs
• Nylon Bones
• Rubber Chew Toys

Other 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. Never leave your dog unattended with a chew.

Book An Appointment At Our Tampa, FL Animal Clinic!

Do you have any queries concerning puppyproofing? Have you lately adopted a puppy? Contact us today! As your Tampa, FL animal clinic, we are here to help!