If you’re getting a new pet soon, it’s the perfect time to start doing some pet-proofing. These preparations will protect your property and ensure your new friend is safe, healthy and happy. So, follow this proofing list and your pet will feel welcome and cozy at your home.

Keep dangerous things away from your pup

One of the first things you must do is get a few child locks and install them around your home. Make sure all medicine and cleaning supply cabinets are safely locked and out of your pet’s reach. Even though they might seem harmless, some houseplants can be quite toxic for animals, so make sure to remove them from your house or put them on a high shelf. Additionally, create a habit of keeping the oven, microwave, fridge, washing machine and dryer doors closed. Pets love to crawl into these places, so always check for intruders before using them. Also, try to keep the toilet lid closed, because some dogs loooove to take a sip from the bowl. Gross, but true!

Create dog-free areas

If you want to keep some parts of your house dog-free, make sure to install baby gates in forbidden areas. Fixing them on top and bottom of the stairs is a great way to prevent unwanted pet company and clumsy tumbles.

Prevent slips

Dogs often get the so-called zoomies, when they run around the house at high speeds. So, if you have slippery floors, your pup can seriously hurt themselves and damage the floors. That’s why it’s a great idea to cover high-traffic areas in non-skid mats and protect both your floors and your pets!

Protect windows

If you’re getting a kitty, make sure to protect it from falls, especially if you live in a tall building. Cats tend to climb everywhere and love to chill by the window which can cause very dangerous falls. So, make sure to keep your windows closed or equip them with sturdy screens. If you have a puppy, make sure to remove all the things that will allow your pup to climb onto and reach the window. Window guards are also a great idea for dogs, but cats can easily fit through the bars.

Provide them with a comfy shelter

Pets sometimes need to be contained, supervised or just need their privacy. So, make sure to provide them with a place that will make them feel comfy and secure. Check out your local or online pet store for appropriately-sized crates and you can rest assured your pet will be safe and cozy even when they need to have a time-out.

Hide cables

Puppies, kittens and rodent pets will chew anything that gets in their way, so make sure to protect your cables from damage and your pet from possible danger. There are practical cable protectors that will make your cables organized and protected. You can also stock up on toys that will keep your pets occupied and keep them away from electronics.

Invest in durable materials

Pets can be a bit destructive and can ruin a lot of things with their fur, nails and dirty paws. However, with careful planning, you’ll get to have both nice furniture and happy pets. For instance, opt for resilient materials like velvet and make sure to use throws that can be machine-washed. Velvet is quite easy to clean, it doesn’t trap pet hair and it will not get snagged by nails. Combine this material with a nice throw and you’ll have a stylish seating arrangement that will be comfy for both you and your pets.

Don’t forget outdoor safety

In case you have a yard for your pet to hang out in, make sure it’s safe, comfy and without any means of escape. Check your fence for any weak points and ensure it’s at least six feet tall. It should also be sturdy and free of gaps where you pup could squeeze through. Additionally, make sure that the fence panels are driven deep into the ground. Dogs like terriers are especially skilled diggers and can create very deep holes and escape under the fence. Also, make sure to keep fertilizers, pest poison and sharp gardening tools in your garden shed, and remove all toxic plats your pet might want to chew on!

Most of these pet-proofing tips are common sense and easy to conduct. So, there are really no excuses to have a home that is not safe for your four-legged friend.