Keep your dog safe during home renovations

Occasionally our homes need some TLC  to keep them safe. While we understand renovations are a necessary annoyance, the same cannot be said about our furry friends, who will likely be alarmed by strange workmen entering the home. So take the necessary steps to keep your dog safe during home renovations.

Dogs may react differently when strangers enter the home. While some will bark loudly while adopting an intimidating stance, others will jump up and attempt to lick the person to death.

Even if you are confident about how your pooch will react, you can’t be certain that any workmen are comfortable around dogs either.

Keep your dog safe during home renovations: Comfort your dog 

If work is being carried out in an isolated part of the home, it should be easy to calm your dog by making them comfortable in another part of the home. Use gates to keep your dog out of harm’s way by creating a distinct divide, and place their bed and toys in the safe area.

If possible, try not to leave the dog on their own for long periods. Your dog will be calmest with someone they trust. Leaving them alone when they are unsure as to what is going on can potentially put even the calmest of dogs on edge, potentially making them aggressive.

If you have two dogs, they can provide company for each other. You will, of course, still have to keep an eye on them, but this does mean that you could potentially leave them on their own for a little while longer than you would with an only dog.

Keep your dog safe during home renovations: Avoid loud noises

Depending on the work being done, there is the potential for loud, startling noises that can frighten your dogs. For example, treating a damp wall could include a lot of loud drilling noises or loud banging.

If you believe that any work will likely involve lots of noise, it could be worth seeking alternative accommodation for your dogs while the work is being done. Asking a friend or family member to look after your dogs for a day or two will be better than having them on edge due to constant loud noises. Keeping your dogs in a setting where they feel comfortable, preferably somewhere they have been before with familiar scents, will help them to settle quicker.

After the work is done 

Once any work has been finalized and they are free to roam around the house again, you may need to make a little extra effort to reacquaint them with their surroundings. Extra love and comfort — plus a few extra treats — will go a long way.

If your pooches display a lack of discipline (i.e. forgetting their house training) do not be too hard on them. Dramatic changes can make them nervous. It is best to remind them that they are loved as opposed to disciplining them.

With these helpful tips, you can keep your dog safe during home renovations.