How to Keep Pets Safe and Secure in the Home

Sentry Window Guards knows that pets are a part of the family! Owning a pet can reduce stress, offer a constant companion, and create a fuller life. Because we love our pets so much, we want to keep them safe and secure when we are home and especially when we are away. Keep the following tips in mind to keep your beloved pets safe, secure, and healthy.

  • Make sure all electrical cords are taped down or they are out of reach. There is a risk of electrocution for pets that chew on an electrical cord. There is also the risk of a playful pet pulling a heavy item on top of them when playing with or getting caught in a dangling cord.
  • Watch out for choking hazards. Small items, like batteries, jewelry, toys, office supplies and more can cause your pet to choke if they chew on them. Keep these items high enough where your pet can’t reach them or store them in a secure container.  
  • The trash can is an area of temptation for curious pets, so it is important to keep your trash secure. Pets can find all sorts of dangerous objects in the trash can such as raw or spoiled food, household chemicals, or choking hazards. Either purchase a trash can with a pet safe lid or store the trash in the pantry or under the cabinet keeping the door closed at all times.
  • Keep food and water dishes clean. Bacteria can grow quickly in food and water bowls so they should be washed daily. Having at least two sets of food and water dishes on hand is helpful. You can use one set while the other set is being cleaned. 
  • Store cleaning supplies and other chemicals out of reach. Your garage, basement, and cabinets can house a number of substances that pets aren’t necessarily attracted to, but curiosity can get the best of them. Antifreeze is a particular danger because it smells sweet to pets and is deadly to them. Get medical help right away if your pet gets into any household chemicals.
  • Keep over the counter medicines, prescriptions medicines, and vitamins up and away from your pets. Plus, keep all medicines in their original child-resistant containers relocking safety caps after each use.
  • If you are a plant lover and a pet lover, be sure to do some research before combining your two loves. Certain plants, including lilies, tulips, foxglove, azaleas, ivy, chrysanthemum, daisies, geraniums and others, are toxic to pets.
  • Make sure your pet can be identified in case you are ever separated. Have them wear a collar with tags that contain your contact information. For extra protection, talk to your vet about getting them microchipped as well. 
  • Never leave pets unattended around open windows and make sure that the windows in your home are securely closed and locked before you head out. Properly installed window guards are your best defense in preventing window falls. It is also an excellent idea to place a decal on your window specifying you have pets to help emergency responders know to rescue your pets if you ever have an emergency at your home while you are away.

At Sentry Window Guards we make it our mission to help keep all members of your family safe, even the furry members! For more information regarding our window guard products and our experience and leadership in understanding NYC safety requirements, contact us today!