Your newly adopted “fur-ever” Doodle will be joining your family soon! Before bringing them home, it is important to make sure your house and backyard are safe for them. This process has been affectionately nicknamed, “Doodle-Proofing”!
Starting on the “right paw” will help eliminate many accidents, messes, and destruction.
5 WAYS TO DOODLE-PROOF THE INSIDE OF YOUR HOUSE
Unplug Electrical Cords: Doodles are very smart and get bored easily! They are attracted to chewing on cords, which can be dangerous. To avoid any accidents, make sure to unplug and hide all electrical cords. You can also use cord covers to make them even less accessible.
Hide All Medicine: Medications, vitamins, and supplements can be hazardous for your new pup if they get a hold of them. Make sure to put all the medications away in a safe place where they are out of reach.
Use Childproof Latches on Cabinets: Pets are curious by nature and will explore every nook and cranny of your house. Use childproof latches on cabinets and drawers to prevent them from getting into places they are not supposed to. This way, you can rest assured knowing they are safe.
Secure Trash Cans: Pups will rummage through the trash in search of food or anything they can chew on, which can be dangerous. To avoid this, secure your trash cans with a lid or a baby gate. Do not be surprised if your Dood or Doodette loves to eat paper! All paper is fair game as far as they are concerned.
Counter Surfing – Doodles love to counter surf in the kitchen and see if they can reach any food that might be in their reach. You’ll be amazed at how far their bodies can stretch and don’t forget they have four paws that are willing and able to help. NOTE: A Chew bone can keep them busy for a while. This is a great alternative and a safer solution!
4 THINGS TO DO TO PUPPY-PROOF YOUR BACKYARD
Remove Toxic Plants: Doodles love to explore. This means that their new backyard is going to be their new playground! To avoid accidents, remove all toxic plants from your backyard, including ivy, azaleas, and lilies.
Fence the Yard: A fence is a wonderful way to keep your new pup contained and safe. It will also give them a chance to explore their new backyard without you having to worry about them running off.
Put a Fence or Cover Around In-Ground Pools: If you have an in-ground pool, it is essential to put a fence or cover around it, especially if your new Doodle is a pup. Most Doodles love the water, and a pool is right up their alley. This will prevent your puppy from accidentally falling in and drowning.
Supervision: Even if you have taken all the necessary precautions, it is still important to supervise your puppy in the backyard until they are sure of their surroundings. This way, you can intervene if they start to get into something they are not supposed to.