Puppy Proofing your House

            First of all, get down on your hands and knees and crawl around at the level of your puppy.  What can he/she get into?  What looks tantalizing to chew on or play with?  What is breakable?  Remove all objects that could cause a hazard to your puppy.  Puppies are known to chew on electrical cord so buy some bitter apple spray to ensure your puppy never chews on things he shouldn’t.

If you have a yard, make sure that it is fenced and gated to prevent it from escaping.  Too many dogs are killed by running into the street and getting hit by a car. 

• Don’t leave open garbage cans.
• Check to be sure doors to washing machines, dryers, freezers, ovens, and refrigerators are securely closed (before and immediately after use).
• Make sure medicines and household cleaners are locked up. 
• Watch that hot irons or other heavy objects are not precariously placed so they might easily fall on your pet.
• Some innocently looking plants are toxic to dogs.  They should not have access to Philodendrons, Dieffenbachias, True Ivies, Elephant’s Ears, Poinsettias, False Jerusalem Cherry, Oleanders, Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Cherry Laurels, and Mistletoe. 
• Don’t give any pet medications not prescribed by a vet.
• Watch out for exposed fireplace flames
• Anything small enough to be swallowed (pennies, rubber bands, nuts, bolts, wire) removed from the floor so your puppy does not choke. 
• Exposed hot stove surfaces should not be left unattended.
• Don’t let your pet chew on electrical cords.
• Large plastic bags, food wrappers (especially meat wrappers) should not be left out.
• Don’t allow your pet to have access to anti-freeze contaminated water in your garage.  I.e. a puddle under your car.  They are drawn to the sweet smell and taste, even though it is highly poisonous to them.
• Don’t leave sharp objects such as knives and razors out. 

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