Puppyproofing your home is an important step to help a puppy stay safe and out of trouble. Remember that puppies are small so view your home from a puppy's point of view. The following is a list of ways you can puppyproof your home:
1. Confine your puppy to a safe area inside and keep doors and windows securely closed, screened or gated.
2. Puppies will wander and get info mischief so do not leave your puppy unsupervised - indoors or outside.
3. Keep your puppy off balconies, upper porches and high decks.
4. Keep all cleaning supplies safely stored away from puppy's curiosity and reach.
5. Remove poisonous houseplants or place them out of puppy's reach. Some common leafy and flowering plants which are poisonous to dogs are: amaryllis, azalea, bleeding heart, caladium, clematis, daffodil, daphne, diffenbachia, english ivy, foxglove, holly, iris, narcissus, oleander, philodendron, poinsettia, rubber plant, tobbaco, tulip, weeping fig. Check with your local poison control authority to find out about local hazardous plants.
6. Cut six-pack beverage holders apart (not leaving rings) before discarding. Puppies can become entangled in them and they also pose a choking hazard (to all animals).
7. Unplug, remove or cover any electrical cords in your puppy's environment or confinement area. This will prevent the dog from chewing on them.
8. Do not use an electric blanket or heating pad to line your puppy's bed. This could cause serious burns.
9. Keep all medications - prescriptions and over-the-counter medications - out of your puppy's reach. NEVER give your puppy any medication without checking with your veterinarian first.
10. Keep sewing supplies and small hardware out of puppy's reach. Buttons, beads, needles, pins, nails, staples, screws, keys, etc. are attractive to them and can cause internal injuries.
11. Do not put ribbons around your puppy's neck. While it may look cute, it can catch on something and choke the dog.
12. Make sure all candy, gum, chocolate and alcohol are out of puppy's reach.
13. Prevent your puppy from drinking from puddles in the street or on the sidewalk as they may contain pesticides, chemicals and other harmful materials. Keep antifreeze away from all animals - they are attracted to the smell and taste and it is fatal when ingested.
Remember, your puppy looks to you for direction, comfort and protection. Everything and everyone is new to him, so don't let him down !
About the Author: Nanette Gordon has a concierge, house and pet sitting company in Boca Raton Florida since 2002. She enjoys helping people take care of their errands, home health and pets when they travel and also when they need extra assistance when they are home. Visit her website to learn more about her personal services at nanettegordon.com
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