How to Keep Your Pets Safe From Pests

Our animals are such a joy in our lives. Naturally, we want all of them to be safe from any potential threat like harmful people, other animals, or toxic foods. Most people don’t think of bugs or pests in that category, but they can be just as threatening. 

Household pests may seem like more of a nuisance, but they can be incredibly dangerous to pets if we don’t keep an eye out. Bugs like venomous spiders, mosquitoes, ticks, and even cockroaches have been known to hurt pets when bitten or ingested. Thankfully, there are ways to protect our pets from these creatures! 

​Following these guidelines will help you be confident that your new cat or dog will have a safe place to call home after adopting them from the Midland Humane Coalition.
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1. Seal up Cracks and Crevices
Just like humans, bugs need a way to get into our homes. They can come through an open door, but they often enter through small cracks and crevices in the house. Cats and dogs don’t have much of a filter on what they eat, which could be dangerous. Take a look around doorways, corners of the floor, closets, and windows for any gaps or cracks. 

To seal these up, do the following:

1. Buy silicone caulk and a caulk gun from a local store.
2. Load the caulk into the caulk gun
3. Apply over cracks or small gaps.
4. Wipe away any excess with a rag or baby wipe. 
5. Let dry. 

This will seal up the entry points and effectively prevent the majority of pests from entering your home.

2. Clean Often
Cleaning your home will directly benefit both you and your animal. Dirty dishes, clutter, loose water, and food all attract pests. Clutter provides the perfect place to hide, and food and water provide sustenance for bugs. The cleaner your house, the better for your pet. 

3. Hire a Trusted Pest Control Service
Texas is known for its wide variety of pests. The hot, humid weather makes it the perfect place for pests to flourish. If you still have pest problems after sealing up cracks and cleaning, it’s time to think about pest control. Companies like Fox Pest Control work hard to safely exterminate frustrating and potentially dangerous pests. Good pest control companies will use pet-friendly products to minimize any risk of harm. To be extra cautious, they will provide guidelines on how long to keep your animal away from treated areas to ensure your pet is healthy and safe. 

Be Safe and Don’t Stress
You should be able to enjoy that cute newest member of your family without worrying about their safety. The Midland Humane Coalition cares deeply about protecting the pets you adopt and trusts you with that responsibility. Simply check the boxes of steps 1 through 3, and you’re one step closer to creating the perfect home for your new furry friend. ​

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Article contributed by Latessa Jacobs, Fox Pest Control 
Visit their website on www.foxpest-midland.com or call them at (432) 653-5264