The Kitchen
Aside from the various hazardous foods that pets shouldn’t have—onions, garlic, grapes and raisins, chocolate, candy, alcohol, caffeine, avocado, and much more—kitchens are home to a lot of sharp objects like knives, graters, forks, metal can lids, and others. Plus, plenty of hot surfaces pose a threat, from toasters and coffee pots to ovens and boiling water. It’s safest to keep your pet out of the kitchen when cooking; also make sure that no hazardous foods are left out where pets could reach them.
The Bathroom
Your bathroom cabinets may contain human medications or hygiene items that could prove harmful to pets when ingested. Make sure all cabinets and drawers remain closed when you’re not using the products inside. It’s also possible for very small or young pets to fall into the open toilet bowl and struggle to get out—all the more reason to keep the lid closed!
Supply Closets
Supply closets are a haven of potential pet toxins. Everything from air fresheners, floor cleaners, and wood polish to bleach, solvents, and household disinfectants can poison a pet who manages to swallow them. Always keep your supply closet closed when not using the products inside, and consider keeping your pet in another room if you’re using chemicals that give off strong fumes.
The Laundry Room
It’s possible for some pets—particularly our feline friends—to climb up into an open dryer and take a relaxing nap on the bed of soft, warm clothing. Of course, things could get ugly if the door is shut and the unit started with a pet still inside! Never leave washer or dryer doors hanging open, and always check to be safe before starting a load of laundry.
Windowsills
With the weather warming up, you may consider opening a few windows to let in the springtime breeze. Make sure all windows have sturdy screens installed—it’s all too easy for pets lounging by an open window to fall out and injure themselves if a screen isn’t in place.
Call Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA veterinarian’s office, for further helpful advice.
