Garage safety for pets is essential, especially when putting your furry friends in the garage becomes a necessary option. Renovations might kick up dust, parties full of strangers can cause distress, or you may simply need a secure place for them while you’re at work.
Whatever the reason, your garage needs to be prepped and ready. And on that note, here are four ways to make (and keep) your garage safe and inviting for your furry friends:
1. Eliminate Dangers
Dogs and cats alike are curious creatures, that’s why it’s important to ensure your garage safety for pets. If they go sniffing through your garage, they can find toxic substances and other hazards, so start by locking up items such as:
- Pesticides
- Insecticides
- Weed killer
- Poisons and baits
- Antifreeze
- De-icers
- Motor oil
Even if you keep these substances on a high shelf, they can get knocked down or absentmindedly set at ground level. Keeping them locked up is a good practice if you allow small children into your garage, too.
Aside from poisons and toxins, other potential dangers to address include the following:
- Exposed wires and ungrounded outlets
- Chewable objects such as tires and hoses
- Unsecured tools and other falling hazards
- Sharp tools and implements
If you can’t lock everything away in a cabinet, consider putting up safety gates and other barriers to prevent access from your pets.
2. Control the Climate to Ensure Garage Safety for Pets
Just as you wouldn’t want to spend all day in a sweltering or freezing garage, neither do your pets. Insulate the garage (especially the door), run the AC or heat, and seal any gaps that can let air out.
Don’t forget about ventilation, either. From time to time, you can open a window or door to let in fresh air. But ultimately, you’ll need a ventilation system to trap dust and other airborne contaminants to still ensure garage safety for pets.
3. Give Them Their Space
Find a cozy corner of the garage and make it homey. Set down a nice warm blanket, a bowl of water, and some toys. You may also want to start feeding your pets in the garage to get them used to the idea that it is a space meant for them.
4. Apply a Floor Coating
Concrete may look solid, but it’s surprisingly porous, which means if your pet has an accident, the floor will act like a sponge. Therefore, you’ll want to add a floor coating, such as epoxy or polyaspartic to ensure garage safety for pets. In which will make cleanup far easier too. These coatings also prevent oils and other automotive fluids from staining the floor, as well.
Improving Security and Insulation Ensure Garage Safety for Pets
One last tip is that your garage door should have the right combination of strength and temperature control to keep your pets safe. If it’s time to upgrade, contact the experts at Larry Myers Garage Doors to supply you with a durable, long-lasting garage door with seamless fit and finish that will provide you with peace of mind every time your pets spend time in your garage!