Keep Pets Safe from Electrical Hazards

NOW THAT THE KIDS are back in school, it’s likely your house will sit empty for most of the day-unless you have pets.

And pets too often express their loneliness or boredom by tearing up parts of the house, including electrical cords or devices.

This fall, consider designing a room just for Fluffy or Fido, where your furry friends can roam around unkennelled, play all day, rest comfortably and keep the destruction to a minimum.
How about converting a spare room or other space into a pet-friendly space? Here's how to get started:

1. Clear the area of any items you don't want your pet to check on or scratch. Look for valuables and materials you want to keep or use and for paint cans, cleaning chemicals, tools and anything with sharp edges that could harm your pet. If you don't have anywhere else to store these items, invest in a large storage container that your pet cannot possibly open.
2.  Cover electrical outlets and cover up any exposed wiring. Remove or cover electrical cords or attach them high on walls so your pet can't reach them to chew on or get tangled in.
3. Scour the floors and lower walls, leaving no trace of spilled chemicals like antifreeze, gas, oil, and paint. This also will remove harmful odors.
4. Lock all windows and doors, and securely cover any holes or vents that your pet could squeeze through in an effort to get outdoors.
5.  Layan inexpensive, easy-to-clean laminate floor so you can mop up pet accidents. Concrete is porous, so it absorbs liquids and smells. Wood Is absorbent, too, and also scratches easily.
6.  Make the space comfortable. Install insulation if your pet's room is in the garage so it won't get too hot or cold. Furnish the room with a big washable bed, an area with food and water, toys, scratching posts and a litter box for cats, and maybe even music.