Household Dangers

Household Dangers

Much like parents childproof their homes, pet owners should take steps to pet-proof their living spaces. Our four-legged family members are naturally curious and explore their surroundings with their paws, claws, and mouths. They may not understand the difference between harmless and hazardous, so it’s up to you to ensure their environment is safe. The following tips will help create a secure home for your pet, reducing the risk of accidents and keeping them happy and healthy.

All Around the House

• Secure windows with screens to prevent falls.
• Avoid letting young pets onto balconies or high decks where they could slip or fall.
• Remove or place poisonous houseplants like lilies, dieffenbachia, philodendrons, ivy, and umbrella plants out of reach. These can be toxic if ingested.
• Keep rat bait and other poisons entirely inaccessible as they are highly tempting yet extremely toxic and potentially fatal to pets.
• Puppies and kittens love to chew, especially when teething—unplug, remove, or cover electrical cords to prevent accidents.
• Never leave a room unattended where a fire is lit or a space heater is in use.
• Plastic bags can pose a suffocation risk, so keep them out of reach.
• Remove small, sharp, or swallowable objects, as pets will likely put anything they can in their mouths.

In the Garage or Shed

• Cats are drawn to warm engines. Before starting your car, honk your horn or check under the vehicle to ensure no pets are nearby.
• Antifreeze and windscreen washer fluid are highly toxic but smell and taste appealing to pets. Secure their containers and clean up spills immediately.
• Store paint, petrol, oil, and chemicals safely out of reach in sealed containers.

In the Kitchen, Laundry, and Bathroom

• Never leave hotplates or irons unattended—they could burn a curious pet.
• Store dangerous chemicals like bleach and ammonia in locked cabinets or on high shelves.
• Keep washing machine and dryer lids closed to prevent pets from climbing inside and becoming trapped.
• Always close toilet lids to avoid the risk of small pets falling in and drowning.
• Personal care items such as medications, shampoos, and sunscreen can be fatal if ingested—ensure these are securely stored.

Out in the Yard

• Be cautious of toxic outdoor plants such as oleander, azalea, hydrangea, morning glory, and nightshade. Many plants can also trigger allergies in pets.
• Cane toads are highly poisonous, secreting toxins when mouthed, which can cause convulsions or cardiac arrest in pets.
• Keep pets away from lawns treated with snail bait or chemicals, as these can be harmful.
• Store garden tools, chemicals, and baits in a locked shed or secure area.
• Cover swimming pools, spas, and ponds to prevent pets from falling in and being unable to escape.
• Be mindful of spiders and snakes, which can pose a significant danger to pets.

Preventing Dog-Related Disasters

• Eliminate hooks or similar objects at your dog’s shoulder height, as their collar or harness could become tangled, causing choking.
• Install a secure perimeter fence or use an invisible electrical fence to reduce the risk of your dog running into traffic or wandering too far from home.
• Decorations like tinsel, icicles, Christmas tree lights, and glass ornaments are irresistible to pets but can cause severe harm if chewed or swallowed.
• Seasonal plants such as poinsettia, holly, and mistletoe are toxic to pets—keep them well out of reach.

Pet-proofing your home is an ongoing process, as pets can be incredibly inventive when exploring their environment. With these precautions in place, you can help ensure that your furry friends enjoy a long, safe, and happy life under your care. If you’re ever unsure about potential hazards, don’t hesitate to ask us for advice.