Renovations and Pet Safety
The last thing anyone wants — pet owners and contractors alike — are animals on-site that are unsafe, unhappy or feeling threatened during a renovation or remodel in their home. Home repairs also come with many items our furry friends may not be used to and may be curious about. Here are a few things to keep in mind regarding pet safety during renovations.
Best Foot Forward
If your pet is friendly, introduce them to the contractors who will be entering and exiting the home. Allowing them to familiarize themselves with scents and voices may make them more at ease during the overall experience, even if those voices are out of sight for the better part of each day.
Safe Spaces
Create a safe, quiet space for your pet away from the renovation work. This could be a spare room, basement, or any room to limit their access to the construction zone. Ensure your pet has plenty of their favourite toys, water, and a comfortable bed.
Nails, Screws, and Wires
Aside from the risk of external wounds, if swallowed these items may become stuck or even puncture delicate organs like the stomach, intestines and esophagus. Some may contain zinc, which can result in digestive upset, red blood cell damage, liver or kidney failure and pancreatitis.
Preventive Maintenance
Paint thinners and strippers can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and nervous system damage. Be sure to cover any paints, varnishes, stains and paint thinners or strippers when not in use, keep pets out of the room until the paint has dried, etc.
Dangerous Debris
Leftover materials from your home repair projects, such as sawdust or drywall pieces, can cause stomach upset and possibly intestinal obstruction if enough is ingested. Make sure to sweep up after any work is done and keep water and food dishes far from the work site.
If you notice any strange behaviour in your pet during renovations, it’s important to get in touch with your vet. If you observe any unusual behaviour in your pet while renovating your home, it’s crucial to schedule a visit to the vet for a check-up. The veterinarian can evaluate your pet’s condition and administer appropriate treatment to guarantee their health and welfare – they may be a little stressed out, or something more serious could be afoot!
