Any pet owner knows, pets and plumbing systems aren’t always the best of friends. Pipes and protruding wires are their chew toys and toilet bowls their personal water fountain. Yet what may seem playful is actually dangerous to your furry friend’s health and to the lifespan of your plumbing system. Here are some tips to pet proof your plumbing-helping to keep both your pet and your plumbing safe.
Tip #1- Keep the toilet lid down
Many times we see a dog drinking from the toilet bowl as a comic trope. Curious as they are, they are always getting into things they shouldn’t. Your toilet bowl definitely being one of those. By lapping up bowl water, they may be getting into harmful chemicals and cleaners. Bleachers may leave residue, which can affect a pet’s health overtime. Leave your toilet lid down, and perhaps bathroom doors closed.
Tip #2 - Give your pets a bath outside
Getting your fuzz balls into the tub is both cute and quite funny, and some pets even find it refreshing! Your pipes, on the other hand, may not see it that way. As much as your dogs love dirt, your pipes hate it. Allowing clumps of fur and dirt to go down the drain could cause some serious damage in due time. It would only take a few doggy baths to harm your draining system. A drain cover may be a good start for the smaller fellows. Covers catch dirt and debris along with hair and fur, making for an easy clean up and leaving your pipes relieved. For larger and furier dogs, however, the outdoor hose may have to do the trick. With plenty of space to leave a mess, you won’t have to worry about causing pipe damage. The sun for natural drying is also a nice bonus!
Tip #3-Watch those digging paws
What could be under your yard that is so interesting? Only your dog knows the answer to that one. What may interest YOU, however, is that your sewage pipes are only 18 inches or so under the ground. Once Fido finds the spot, only a few digs will unearth your big pipes. Teeth and claws meeting steel could cause damage to both parties. Leaks and minor damage could become a costly inconvenience. Your pet is also at risk of getting hurt and having to make a trip to the vet. Watch your diggers! It’s cute until it’s costly.
Tip #4 - Keep plenty of clean water on standby
Help keep your furry friends happy and healthy. Ensure you and your best friend are both drinking clean water and have plenty at hand. Stay hydrated from a safe source. Having clean water waiting may steer Fido away from the porcelain bowl. Keeping the lid down and doors closed will definitely be discouraging.
Small adjustment throughout the home can make your plumbing pet friendly and your home a safer place to roam. However, if your pet and your plumbing do have an issue, the plumbing professionals at Linthicum Plumbing are just a phone call away.