Apartment Pet Safety Guidelines for a New Pet Owner

Pet safety can often be overlooked in the excitement of becoming a first-time pet owner. However, your pet’s safety in your apartment is an essential element to ensure his, your own and your neighbor’s well-being. The following are some pet safety guidelines that should be considered.

Beware the Balcony

While you may enjoy sitting outside on your apartment’s balcony, your pet may not understand the need to stay safely away from the railing. Small dogs may be able to fit through the spaces in the rails, and cats may try to sit on the top of the railing, possibly leading to them falling over the edge. If the railings pose a threat to your small dog, consider installing chicken wire or clear plastic squares to prevent him from sticking his head through the spaces. For cats, unless it is screened, the balcony should not be a place you permit your cat to explore. Also consider your balcony’s strength. While a larger or older dog may not be able to fit through the railing’s spaces, the rail may not be able to withstand the dog’s weight. It is smart to only allow your pets outside when you will be with them.

Beware the Stairs

Another factor to consider when pet-proofing your home is the presence of stairs. Exterior staircases may pose a slipping or falling hazard to your dogs. All metal stairs may collect water, making them slippery and most outdoor staircases will consist only of slabs, meaning that a small dog could fit through the space and fall to the ground.

Interior stairs may pose a danger for both cats and dogs alike. A cat may try to climb the stairs railing, if any, causing them to slip and fall. An elderly or a small dog may not be able to walk up the stairs safely, creating a fall hazard. Consider blocking the stairs with a small, easily removable gate to prevent these problems.

Consider Your Proximity to Neighbors

Your pet’s safety also depends on the proximity of your neighbors. Common hallways, staircases or other community areas may be dangerous because you do not know what the other residents may leave on the ground. Check the areas where your dog walks to ensure there is no food, wrappers or other dangerous objects he may try to eat. If your cat lives outdoors, it is smart to tell the other residents this and also ask them not to feed the pet so that you can properly manage their diet.

You must also be aware of your neighbor’s proximity to prevent them from sustaining an injury from your pet. You cannot always control your dog or cat’s behavior, and so limiting their interaction with unknown neighbors will reduce or even eliminate the potential for dog bites or cat scratches.

Consider How to Best House Your Pet

For animals other than dogs or cats, such as reptiles or fish, it is imperative that you properly contain your animal. You may need a terrarium or other type of container to prevent escape. Also, regularly check the container to ensure there are no cracks, leaks or other problems that could be dangerous for your pet and neighbors.

Consider Your Proximity to Other Animals

Your pet’s proximity to other animals is a huge consideration when making your apartment safe. Dogs bite, cats scratch, and other animals have their means of defending themselves against perceived attacks or intrusions. Do not let your cat near other animals they do not already know, and always use a leash when walking your dog. While you may know your dog is safe, you can never really be certain. Properly restrain your animal to prevent fights with other animals.

It’s not enough to consider your own pet’s safety, but also your own, your neighbors and other animal’s safety. Watch out for dangerous conditions inside your apartment and take care to prevent their contact with unknown animals and persons.