Pet Safety at Home & Outdoors

Published on October 9, 2025 by Denver Paws Team

Pet-Proofing Your Home

Your home should be a safe haven for your pet, but many common household items can pose a danger. Taking steps to pet-proof your living space can prevent accidents and emergencies.

• Secure Hazardous Substances: Store cleaning products, medications, pesticides, and automotive fluids in high, locked cabinets.
• Toxic Plants: Identify and remove any plants that are toxic to pets. Common culprits include lilies, sago palms, azaleas, and philodendrons.
• Small Objects: Keep small items like coins, batteries, rubber bands, string, and children's toys out of reach to prevent choking or ingestion.
• Electrical Cords: Secure or cover electrical cords to prevent chewing, which can lead to burns or electrocution.
• Trash Cans: Use trash cans with secure lids to prevent pets from rummaging through potentially harmful waste.
• Windows and Balconies: Ensure screens are secure and supervise pets on balconies to prevent falls.

Outdoor Safety Tips

Denver offers many opportunities for outdoor adventures with your pet, but it's important to be mindful of potential hazards.

• Leash Laws: Always adhere to Denver's leash laws. Keeping your dog on a leash prevents them from running into traffic, encountering aggressive animals, or getting lost.
• Heatstroke Prevention: Never leave pets in parked cars, even on mild days. Provide plenty of water and shade during outdoor activities in warm weather.
• Cold Weather Protection: Protect paws from ice and salt in winter. Consider a coat or booties for short-haired breeds.
• Wildlife Encounters: Be aware of local wildlife (coyotes, bears, rattlesnakes) and keep your pet away from them.
• Water Safety: Supervise pets around water bodies. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and strong currents can be dangerous.
• Toxic Substances Outdoors: Be cautious of antifreeze, rodenticides, and fertilizers in yards or public spaces.

Emergency Preparedness

Having a plan in place for emergencies can make a critical difference for your pet.

• Emergency Kit: Assemble a pet emergency kit with food, water, medications, first-aid supplies, and copies of medical records.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep your veterinarian's number, the number for an emergency vet clinic, and a trusted friend or neighbor's contact information readily accessible.
• Evacuation Plan: Include your pet in your family's evacuation plan. Know which shelters or hotels are pet-friendly.

Identification is Key

If your pet ever gets lost, proper identification significantly increases the chances of a safe return.

• ID Tags: Ensure your pet wears a collar with up-to-date ID tags, including your name and phone number.
• Microchipping: Microchipping provides permanent identification. Register the microchip and keep your contact information updated.

By being proactive and aware, you can help ensure your beloved pet stays safe and sound in Denver.