Indoor Pet Gate

Some people like keeping dogs indoors most of the time. However, in such cases, there obviously is the need of some indoor dog containment systems that help train the dog to keep to its boundaries while in the house.

If you plan to keep your dog in a safe and secure indoor refuge, the wire cage is an excellent choice. Some feel that the cage is a type of doggie jail. However, dogs are instinctively den animals that prefer a space of their own. So cages provide the dog with a private and quiet space. It also helps in housetraining puppies and in controlling destructive behavior due to stress, teething and separation anxiety. There are square back, non-foldable and fold-and-carry cages to choose from. There are also tent-style cages made from canvas or nylon that are ideal when taking the dog camping or traveling. Another form of indoor dog containment system is the crate. It is a lightweight plastic crate that provides the dog with privacy and comfort while traveling or at home. Some plastic crates can be folded down or collapsed, enhancing their portability.

To keep your dog from trouble and to restrict its access to specific rooms or areas, pet gates are the best choice. You could put the gate at the bottom or top of a flight of stairs to confine the dog. There are different models to fit different stair widths and also different doors. These are used primarily indoors and are made of steel, plastic or wood, with different sizes to fit your dog’s age, size and strength. To teach your dog to stay off specific areas, countertops, furniture and windowsills, room and surface barriers are the best form of indoor dog containment system. These training aids usually emit either a mild electric pulse or an alarm to reinforce your command for the dog to stay off. They also keep working while you are not at home, and help you keep specific rooms and furniture free from excessive dog hair.

Pets and Indoor Allergies

Can your dog or cat suffer from indoor allergies? The answer is yes.

No, they do not sniffle, sneeze or have red eyes. More than likely they will be itching, scratching and possibly shedding.

Interestingly our cats and dogs do not respond to airborne allergens like we humans do. Respiratory problems are rare with the exception of an asthmatic cat.

What are some of the causes of allergic reactions that pets may have?

First of all the list could be longer than you would care to read, so we will zero in on a few of the most common culprits.

Number one is “dust mites.” These tiny creatures can cause more problems than pollen. Then comes mold spores (caused by dampness and humidity,) cigarette or tobacco smoke, household cleaners and deodorizers, followed by cockroaches and their residue

Your pets can even be allergic to other pets such as birds, feather products such as down comforters and pillows and believe it or not even human dander.

Now if the allergy does not cause a respiratory problem, what does it cause? If your pet is just a little allergic you might not even notice if it is scratching excessively, however if your cat or dog is overly sensitive you may even notice spots where your pet has scratched or licked the fur away.

Where does your pet pick up these allergens? Mainly from the floor, the couch or chair it sits on, your bed or its own bed, anywhere its paws or body can come in contact with the substance. What can you do if you suspect your pet may have an allergy problem?

If your pet begins to scratch, bite, lick or claw at its body more than usual. If “hot spots” or areas of no fur appear on your pet’s body and fleas are not the problem. Your pet may have an allergy to something in the house, which can be a new food, new litter or a new treat among other things.