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Shop Pet Door AccessoriesDate Posted: April 14, 2025
Installing a pet door is like giving your furry friend their own VIP pass to the great outdoors — no more waiting, pawing at the glass, or giving you those pleading eyes. They can come and go as they please, playing with the butterflies, getting the zoomies, and rolling around in the grass on their own schedule. But with this newfound freedom comes a little extra responsibility. Just because your pet can move between the indoors and outdoors effortlessly doesn’t mean there aren’t a few things you still need to keep an eye on. A little prep can ensure your pet stays safe, healthy, and ready to enjoy every tail-wagging, whisker-twitching moment in the sun. So, let’s take a look at some tips on how to keep your pet’s outdoor kingdom a paradise.
Related: Why Pet Door Safety Matters
As your pet enjoys their outdoor freedom, it’s important to keep an eye on what they leave behind. Make sure to pick up your dog’s droppings daily to help maintain hygiene, deter nuisance animals, and prevent the spread of disease and illness. You should also keep an eye on the consistency and appearance of your pet’s stool to help you spot signs of parasites, dietary issues, or other health concerns. Warmer months are the prime time for intestinal parasites to thrive, so talk to your vet about preventative care, and approach them with any concerns you may have about your pet’s bowel movements.
Your backyard is meant to be a pet paradise, but storms and winter snow may have left behind some unwelcome dangers. When the snow melts and spring begins, it’s time to do a thorough sweep to ensure your pet’s outdoor space is safe.
Fresh blooms are a beautiful addition to any yard, but some plants can be dangerous — even deadly — to pets. Keep an eye out for common plants that are toxic to dogs and cats, such as oleander, aloe, sago palm, tulips, lilies, daffodils, amaryllis, chrysanthemums, rhododendrons, and cyclamen. Even a small nibble can cause symptoms ranging from mild stomach upset to severe poisoning. If you’re unsure about a plant, check with your vet or remove it from your yard as a precaution.
Puddles and leftover winter runoff may seem harmless, but standing water creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes. These obnoxious insects can carry diseases like heartworm, which poses a serious risk to dogs and cats. Regularly empty out water from flower pots, birdbaths, and any low spots in your yard to keep your pet safe from mosquito-borne illnesses.
Storms can leave behind branches, broken glass, sharp metal, and other debris that could injure your pet. Before letting them roam freely, inspect your yard and clear out anything that might cause cuts or scrapes. Pay special attention to leaf piles, bushes, and garden beds, where hidden hazards might be lurking.
Many common lawn treatments contain chemicals that can be harmful to pets if ingested, inhaled, or even walked through. Some of the biggest culprits include weed killers, slug bait, rodenticides, and fertilizers with bone or blood meal. If you use lawn treatments, opt for pet-safe alternatives and keep your pet indoors until the area is completely dry and safe.
Inclement weather and the passage of time can weaken fences, gates, and other enclosures, creating gaps or loose panels that could lead to unexpected pet escapes. Do a thorough inspection, looking for any broken boards, rusted latches, or gaps in the fence line where a curious pet might slip through. Reinforce all weak spots to keep your pet safely contained.
Your yard may have become a cozy winter hideout for unwelcome guests like raccoons, skunks, rats, hornets, snakes, or other critters. Before your pet’s curiosity gets them into trouble, check sheds, decks, woodpiles, and overgrown areas for signs of infestation. If you find unwanted new residents, contact a humane wildlife removal expert to relocate them safely.
Your pet door works hard to keep out the elements, so it’s best to give it the occasional clean-up and inspection. Check the flaps for wear and tear, clean out any built-up dirt or grime, and inspect the weatherstripping to keep it energy efficient. If your pet door needs an upgrade, Hale Pet Door has replacement flaps and the best products on the market, complete with a lifetime frame and ten-year parts warranties.
Read More: How to Clean Your Pet Door
As your pet spends more time outdoors, they’re bound to bring a little bit of the outside back in with them. Regular brushing helps reduce shedding, and regular baths can keep pollen, mud, and allergens from taking over your home. And don’t forget those paws! Checking them for cuts or burrs after outdoor play can help prevent infections and keep your pet feeling their best.
Warmer weather means more than just sunshine and longer days — it also brings out fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Each of these pests can carry diseases that put your pet at risk. Talk to your vet about the best prevention plan for your furry friend, and make sure they’re protected before they start spending more time outdoors. Keeping your yard well-groomed and free of standing water and debris can also make your property less attractive for springtime pests.
Even with all the convenience and freedom a pet door brings, your pet still looks to you to keep them safe and sound. Regular check-ins on their activity space help ensure they stay thriving, instead of wandering their way into trouble. At Hale Pet Door, we believe pet freedom should always come with peace of mind. That’s why our doors are built for durability, security, and weather resistance — so you can focus on making the most of every season with your four-legged family member. Ready to give your pet the best of both worlds? Explore our collection to find a high-quality upgrade for your best friend.
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