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If you have a dog that lets himself out of the house when nature calls, consider upgrading your pet door. New models, such as Pet Safe's Extreme Weather Pet Door, have an insulated flap that can withstand 40-mile-per-hour winds. And a pet door doesn't need to be installed in a door. In fact, one of Pet Safe's bestsellers is a through-the-wall entry door. It's a self-framing, do-it-yourself project that is especially appealing to people with glass doors.
And if critters or other intruders are your concern, there are pet doors that come with "keys" installed on the pet's collar that automatically unlock the door when the pet approaches.
Pet Hangouts
If your pet likes to spend time outdoors, consider constructing a dog or cat house. The basic requirements are that it be well-insulated against the elements and have proper drainage. It should also be large enough that your pet can stand up, turn around and lie down. Beyond that, let your imagination take off, Reed says. Would your pooch like a shaded porch outside the house? How about building a miniature replica of your own abode or just painting it the same colors? "Some people have even installed air conditioning and heating in their doghouses," Reed says.
Cats are happy to just have various spaces to laze around. The Cat Veranda, by Pet Safe, allows cats to be safely outdoors. The unit is a large screened box that extends outside a double-hung window, much like an air conditioner. "Customers are using them for feeding too," says Willie Wallace, Pet Safe vice president of sales and new product development. "The additional benefit is that if you have smelly cat food it stays outside. Some people use it for a litter boxes as well."
Pet Safety
To keep your dog from roaming the neighborhood, install an electric fence. A perimeter is established around the house, either through in-ground wiring or a portable wireless system. A transmitter on your pet's collar will deliver a safe yet annoying jolt if he approaches the boundary line.
If your cat enjoys being outdoors, keep her safe with a specially crafted cat fence. One model, the Purr...fect Fence, aims to outsmart even the most enterprising cat. Its flexible material is difficult for cats to scale. But for those determined kitties, there is an added line of protection in the "Houdini-proof" arch that makes escape very difficult.
If you pet bolts out of the house once the door opens, a simple solution is at hand. Take an eyehook, screw it into the wall and attach a leash, Santo recommends. Then, whenever you need to open the door, first leash him to the wall.
Other small touches can help "pet-proof" your home, keeping it just as safe for him as you would make it for a curious toddler. Place your trashcan in a locked under-counter cabinet or pantry so spoiled food or the caffeine from coffee grounds won't sicken pets, says the ASPCA. The same goes for cleaning products, medications, vitamins, garden and automotive supplies that can be toxic. Keep your dishwasher closed, as detergents can burn the mouth if ingested.
By making your home pet-friendly, you're letting your dog or cat know that their unconditional love is appreciated. And when you see your pet content, you'll know that you're providing them with the care they deserve.
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Text by Cynthia Ramnarace
© 2007 BobVila.com
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