PET SAFETY IN YOUR HOME

While there is a lot of focus on how to childproof a home, it's important to be aware that there are also pet safety issues in any home. Not only should you be concerned for the well being of your pet, but look also for problems that could result in your pet getting out or accidentally hurting someone.

Watch For Poisons

If you have a cat or dog, it's important to familiarize yourself with the plants and foods that could be detrimental to their health. Certain plants can be poisonous to cats, who often chew on the leaves of houseplants. Both azaleas and Easter lilies are toxic to cats. Around the Christmas season, be aware that mistletoe and poinsettias are both poisonous as well.

There are also many foods that are bad for both cats and dogs. Avocados, raisins, grapes, and chocolate are among the most common and can make an animal very sick. Keep such foods well out of reach of animals, as well as of kids who might feed them to your pets.

Unexpected Dangers

Remember that dogs can get into things that we as humans would never think to eat. They have been known to chew on dirty diapers, and the gel inside disposable diapers is very detrimental to their digestive system. Keep them in a closed container. They will also drink from toilet bowls, so keep the lid closed if you use cleaners that remain in the tank. Keep garbage locked away as well; dogs will get into it and any number of things could make them sick.

If you have dogs or cats in the house, be cautious with things like irons or other corded heated items. A dog or cat could knock it over and cause burns to themselves or someone nearby. Dogs with long tails can also knock things on a coffee table over!

Secure Your Yard

Make sure that your yard is secure or you keep your dog leashed at all times. If your dog escapes, it could be involved in an altercation with another animal or a person, resulting in injuries for which you will be held responsible. And of course the dog could easily be struck by a passing vehicle and injured or worse.

Pet safety is an important consideration around the house, especially if your pets are members of the family. And it's not just their safety to consider but others in the house and neighborhood, so keep an eye out for danger around the house.

Comments

SPRING ROOF INSPECTION

The roof is the one thing between your home and the elements... doesn’t it deserve a little respect? Here are some roof maintenance tips to preserve your home’s value. Ah, the humble roof. We forget that the single most important structural element in our home is the roof. It provides shelter for those we love and the things we value. It’s easy to let maintenance slide on something we take for granted. With better weather days upon us, now is a good time to inspect the roof and make sure it’s up to the task of protecting your home’s value. Here are some crucial elements you’ll want to look for during a roof inspection: Are the gutters clean and in good shape? Organic debris building up in your gutters can cause water to pool and foster an environment for roof rot. Do you see any curling around the bottom edges? Are there any gaps or holes in the soffit? Are there surface cracks in shingles? Cracks warn you of impending disintegration or separati

BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME: SEVEN TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS

Now that you've made the decision to purchase your first home, a hearty congratulations is in order! Becoming a homeowner, especially for the first time, can stir up some feelings of anxiety and excitement. With the knowledge that you gain through individual research and the help of your REALTOR®, you will soon begin to feel like a seasoned house hunter. Tip # 1: Do Your Homework Did you know that there are a number of incentives available to first-time home buyers? In Canada, there is the First-Time Homebuyers' (FTHB) Tax Credit. The Government of Canada introduced a FTHB Tax Credit in 2009 — a $5,000 non-refundable income tax credit amount on a qualifying home acquired after January 27, 2009. For an eligible individual, the credit will provide up to $750 in federal tax relief starting in 2009. Another incentive is the Expansion of the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP). To provide first-time homebuyers with greater access to their RRSP savings to purchase or build a

A SPRING SPREAD ANY BUNNY CAN CREATE

(Culinary.net) With spring in the air, it’s the perfect time to invite guests over for a hopping party. It’s also a great opportunity to tackle that dreadful spring cleaning and spruce up your living spaces with vibrant decor for visitors to enjoy alongside a delicious recipe. With this sweet, colorful table arrangement, your whole family can get into the spring spirit. From festive utensils, a bright centerpiece and cute snacks, your spring setup can be fresh and fabulous. It’s simple to put together and easy on the budget. Pair it with appetizers or even a main dish for a full spring party spread that’s sure to impress. Find more springtime recipes at Culinary.net . Watch video to see how to create this Spring Table Spread! Chick Cheese Balls Recipe adapted from Hallmark.com Yield: 10 chicks 1 package cream cheese 1/4 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/2 lemon, juice only salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1 cup fine

At Home With Valerie

Search This Blog