Everyone wishes they could stay home with their furriest family members all the time, but most of us have to head off to work, run errands, and attend social events several days a week. Of course, you make sure your pets have plenty of fresh water and food to keep them healthy, but how do you keep them safe while you’re away? Here are some tips to protect your pet even when you’re not around.
Make Your Home a Comfortable Environment
Make sure your pet has access to their bed, water, and plenty of toys and other objects to keep them entertained. Keep your home at a comfortable temperature—adjusting as necessary with the weather outside.
Make sure anything dangerous your pet might get into — such as cleaning products or medications — is out of reach or locked away in a high cabinet. If your pet likes to chew, be sure they can’t access hazardous items like electrical cords. You may want to secure your pet in a specific room or crate train them to keep them out of harm’s way.
Count on Those You Can Trust
Consider hiring a trustworthy pet sitter to come walk or look in on your pet during the day—especially if you will be away for several hours. Ask friends and family for recommendations in your area, and be sure to check references and online reviews. Get to know your neighbors, and make sure they know your pet’s name and appearance so they can be on the lookout if she was to accidentally escape your home.
GPS Your Pet
Even if you don’t leave the house often, it is important to make sure your pet has a microchip in the event they do slip out the door or the backyard. Consider adding a GPS device to their collar, so you can monitor their whereabouts at any time.
Monitor Your Home, Even When You’re Away
Pet video streaming systems are another great idea. They allow you to check in on your furry family members throughout the day. For a step-up in security, look into home-monitoring systems to keep on top of intruders, fire, or gas leaks in the home. If you install a doggy door, make sure it has pet sensors to differentiate between pets and others coming into your home.
You shouldn’t have to worry about your pet while you’re away. Just taking some time to make your home safe and pet-friendly can make all the difference.
About the Author
Eileen O’Shanassy is a freelance writer and blogger based out of Flagstaff, AZ. She writes on a variety of topics and loves to research and write. She enjoys baking, biking, and kayaking. Check out her Twitter @eileenoshanassy.