Objects left lying around, unattended eating, loose power cords, and other carelessness can be dangerous for dogs. Hidden dangers for dogs lurk everywhere in the home. Make sure the apartment is dog-proof; The following tips will show you how to do this.
It’s precisely the hidden dangers that we have to watch out for – i.e., those that don’t appear dangerous at first glance. In the evening, before going to bed, we leave the chocolate package open on the coffee table, and that’s it: the sofa wolf ate it up, even though chocolate is poisonous to dogs. You should also be aware of the following dangers.
- Food
Chocolate is poisonous to dogs and many other foods or sweets lying around in the household. These include, for example, spiced human food or sweets stuffed with sugar. Snacks that are healthy for us humans, such as grapes or nuts, are not suitable for dogs. You can find more on the subject in the guide “Caution poisonous! Foods that dogs should not eat”.
- Medication
But not only food but also other objects that appear in the household, such as medicines, can unexpectedly get into the dog’s mouth. Some pills, such as certain painkillers and other medical preparations, are hazardous for dogs and can lead to severe poisoning symptoms. Therefore, always lock away medicines safely, both in a household with animals and in one with children.
- Chemicals
Cleaning agents and other chemicals can be found in every household. Curious fur noses like to rummage everywhere and can poison themselves if their tongues are pulled over an open bottle with cleaner or the like. Always store chemicals, cleaning agents, and the like so that your four-legged friend cannot reach them. Tip: Since some bright cold noses can also open cupboards, it is advisable to store them in a higher position.
- Power cord
The horror for every pet owner is an electric shock that the beloved pet can suffer. Since dogs are naturally curious and want to explore their surroundings, they might also be nibbling on that weird, long piece of string behind the TV. Wuff does not know that this is a life-threatening power cable. Therefore, you should permanently hide cables safely, for example, with the help of cable protection strips.
- Small and sharp objects
A dog’s curiosity does not stop at objects such as needles, buttons, cigarettes, plastic parts, or plastic bags. Ensure that your animal roommate does not get hold of any minor, dangerous objects that could cause internal injuries or suffocation if swallowed (accidentally).
- Poisonous plants
A poisonous plant in the apartment or the garden can be hazardous for a four-legged friend. Lily of the valley, tulips, geraniums and other plants are toxic to dogs and should not even come within reach of the animals. Before you buy a plant, find out whether it is poisonous to dogs.
7th barbecue season
Barbecue season is dangerous for dogs. On the one hand, this is because dogs often catch a piece of grilled meat or barbecue leftovers, which they don’t like because of the spices, and on the other hand, the grill itself can cause injuries with its heat glowing coals. Avoid low, makeshift tables on the terrace and always keep an eye on the hot grill when you grill – otherwise, your dog might stick his nose where it shouldn’t be.
- Standing water
I am speaking of barbecue season. With its high temperatures, the summer also poses a risk for the dog’s bowl. Both dog food and water for the dog can spoil quickly in the heat. Ensure that the food does not stay in the bowl for too long and change the water every few hours in summer. Otherwise, germs and bacteria will multiply.