As pet parents, we do everything we can to keep our furry family members safe. But the truth is, many everyday household items can pose serious dangers to your dog or cat—and you may not even realize it.
At Top Dog Pet Sitting & Dog Walking, we’ve seen it all. From sneaky snack theft to pets chewing on things they shouldn’t, we know how quickly accidents can happen. Here’s a look at five of the most common household hazards—and what you can do to avoid an emergency.
1. Human Food That’s Toxic to Pets
That piece of chocolate cake might look harmless on the counter, but even a small amount of chocolate can be dangerous to dogs. Other common kitchen culprits include:
- Grapes and raisins (can cause kidney failure)
- Onions and garlic (can damage red blood cells)
- Xylitol (a sweetener in gum, candy, and some peanut butters—can be fatal)
Prevent it:
Keep food out of reach. Educate kids and visitors not to share table scraps. Double-check ingredient labels before giving treats.
2. Electrical Cords and Charging Cables
Some pets, especially puppies and kittens, love to chew anything they can find—including plugged-in cords. Not only can this lead to burns or shocks, but it also creates a fire hazard.
Prevent it:
Use cord covers or pet-proof cable organizers. Keep chargers unplugged and stored when not in use. Redirect chewing behavior with safe chew toys.
3. Household Cleaners
Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can irritate your pet’s skin, eyes, or stomach. Even “green” or “natural” doesn’t always mean pet-safe.
Prevent it:
Store cleaners in cabinets with child-proof locks. Avoid using products with strong fumes around your pets. Look for pet-safe alternatives whenever possible.
4. Medications and Supplements
It only takes one dropped pill to trigger an emergency vet visit. Common over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or even vitamins can be toxic to animals.
Prevent it:
Store medications securely—preferably in high cabinets. Be careful when opening bottles. Never give human medicine to pets unless specifically directed by your vet.
5. Open Trash Cans
Dogs especially are notorious for getting into trash. Whether it’s spoiled food, bones, or something sharp, the trash bin is a minefield of danger.
Prevent it:
Use pet-proof trash cans with locking lids. Keep bathroom and kitchen doors closed. Dispose of dangerous items (like bones or food wrappers) right away.
Final Thought:
Your home might seem like a safe haven—but from your pet’s perspective, it’s a wonderland of temptations. Taking simple precautions can prevent accidents and keep your pets happy, healthy, and out of trouble.
Need someone to keep an eye on your four-legged family member while you’re at work or away? That’s where Top Dog Pet Sitting & Dog Walking comes in. We treat your pets like our own—because they deserve nothing less.
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