| Home repairs and redecorating can be hectic for the family, and pets
can become upset by the disruption of their daily routine. By anticipating their
needs, you can help your dog or cat get through the upheaval and be as happy in
the refurbished home as in their old surroundings. Be prepared for the
disorder that may occur when workers arrive and reconstruction begins. Many dogs
and some cats have a protective instinct. A naturally protective pet might lash
out at a worker who seems to be invading its territory. Some pets may seek security
by hiding, and the chosen hiding place may present safety problems. Or a frightened
pet may quietly slip outside. This is particularly dangerous for indoor cats.
Doors and windows may be left open, making it easy for a pet to wander off. Incessantly
loud noise from hammering, power tools or other aspects of remodeling may be unnerving
to a pet. Keep your pet in an enclosed area with its favorite blanket, toys and
other favorite objects to help provide some measure of security. Avoid putting
a frightened dog in an area with a large window. A fearful dog might try to crash
through the window to escape the noise. After the workers leave for the
day, pets still need protection. They are apt to investigate unfamiliar objects.
Tools may be sharp. Paint, mineral spirits, paint remover and wood preservatives
can be toxic. These items should be kept off-limits to curious pets and children.
Scrapings or dust from the removal of lead-based paint present another
potential danger. The Centers for Disease Control has estimated that 80 percent
of the private housing units built before 1980 contain some lead-based paint.
Prevention is the best protection against lead poisoning. If feasible, have lead-based
paint professionally removed and keep your pets away from the area. Be certain
flaking paint or paint dust is promptly removed. If bare wires are exposed,
the possibility of an electric shock or even electrocution exists. Keeping your
pet away from the work area is the best way to protect it. If your kitchen
is the focus of remodeling, you may rely on carryout food for several days or
weeks. Carefully dispose of leftover food, paper containers and plastic wrap.
A thorough cleanup can prevent pets from eating leftovers, which could cause digestive
upsets, or swallowing plastic wrap, which could damage their intestines.
The ideal situation would be to get your pet out of the house during the refurbishing.
If it is a one-day job, take your pet to the groomer or to visit a pet-loving
friend. Many kennels offer "doggie day care," and this might be fun for your dog.
If your remodeling project is an extended one, you may want to board your pet
or, if possible, isolate it in an area in the house that is free from remodeling.
A final thought
The chaos of remodeling or redecorating
can cause frayed nerves among family members who understand what is happening.
Consider your pet's point-of-view. Its normal routine is disrupted. It is confined
to a limited area, subjected to frightening noises and exposed to strange people
coming and going. This is the time to maintain routines of grooming and exercise
as much as possible and provide heaping portions of TLC! -------------------------------------------------
// ------------------------------------------------ Reprinted with permission
by Ralston Purina Canada. | 
