How do I make my garage safe for my dog?

Having a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life. Our furry friends provide us with unconditional love, entertainment, and companionship. However, there are also responsibilities that come with being a dog owner. One of those responsibilities is ensuring your dog’s safety, especially when they are in spaces like the garage where there are many potential hazards.

Is the garage a safe place for my dog?

In most cases, the garage is not an ideal place for your dog to spend significant amounts of time unattended. Garages often contain chemicals, tools, machinery, and other dangers that could harm your pet. Additionally, access to the outdoors from the garage can present risks if your dog is able to get loose.

However, with some modifications and precautions, the garage can be made safer for your dog. If your dog needs to be in the garage for short supervised periods or you do not have another outdoor space for them to relieve themselves, there are ways to dog-proof the space.

What potential hazards are in the garage?

Here are some of the most common potential dangers to dogs in the garage:

• Chemicals like gasoline, antifreeze, paint, solvents, and cleaning products
• Gardening supplies like fertilizer, insecticide, and weed killer
• Tools like lawnmowers, power saws, nails, and welding equipment
• Toxic plants like oleander, sago palms, azaleas, and rhododendrons
• Rodenticides and other pesticides
• Wires, batteries, and other sources of electrocution
• Sharp objects like screws or scrap metal
• Places to get trapped under like shelves or behind storage
• Getting locked inside a hot car in summer or freezing temperatures in winter

As you can see, the list of dangers in a typical garage is extensive. The good news is there are steps you can take to minimize the risks.

Tips to make the garage safer

Here are some tips to make your garage a more secure place for your furry friend:

Keep chemicals and toxins locked away

All chemicals, automotive supplies, pesticides, cleaning products, and other hazardous substances should be clearly labeled and stored in leak-proof, latched containers. Place these containers up and away from your dog’s reach. Avoid applying chemicals when your dog is present.

Install baby gates

Strategically place baby gates to block off access to certain areas or the garage door leading outside. Be sure to get tall enough gates that your dog cannot jump over.

Keep tools and dangerous objects out of reach

Tools, machinery, gardening implements, nails, gasoline cans, and any other hazardous items should be kept in locked cabinets or on high shelves. Unplug, disable or lock up any power equipment.

Check for hiding places

Look under shelves, behind storage boxes and anywhere else a pet may sneak to. Remove items like tarps they could become tangled in. Make sure all storage is secure and cannot fall over.

Pad hard surfaces

Place rubber mats, area rugs or foam tiles on hard concrete or work bench surfaces that could hurt paws or joints.

Check for sharp objects

Pick up any screws, nails, metal shards or other sharp objects. Sweep and clean the floor regularly to prevent injury to paws.

Ensure good ventilation

Maintain good airflow through open doors and windows so fumes do not build up. Never leave a car running in the garage.

Install lights and alarms

Motion sensor lights and audible alarms can alert you to your dog accessing the garage. Check often for signs your dog was in the garage like paw prints or moved objects.

Unplug space heaters

Space heaters can be fire hazards, so make sure to keep them unplugged when not in use. Dogs could knock them over or chew the cords.

Check the garage temperature

Use a thermometer to check that the garage does not get dangerously hot in summer or cold in winter. Insulate and climate control the space if needed.

Provide water

Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water when spending time in the garage. Use tip-proof bowls and check frequently.

Have a first aid kit available

Keep a pet first aid kit in the garage for minor injuries. Include bandages, antiseptic wash and ointment in case of cuts, tweezers for splinters, etc.

Check for gaps or holes

Walk the garage perimeter and check for any openings or damage your dog could escape through. Make repairs and install mesh over vents as needed.

Have proper ID on your dog

Your dog should always wear a collar with ID tags listing your current contact info in case they do get out of the garage.

Keep doors shut

The entry door between house and garage and the main garage door should always be kept closed. Install self-closing mechanisms if needed.

Use pet-proof garage door sensors

Install safety sensors at the bottom of your garage door to prevent it closing on your dog. Make sure systems are properly aligned and functional.

Train your dog

With supervision and positive reinforcement, you can train your dog to avoid dangers and only access allowed areas of the garage. Keep them leashed at first.

Have a safe space for your dog

Create a dog-friendly zone in the garage with their bed, water, and toys where they can hang out safely when supervised.

Consider cameras and monitors

Security cameras can help monitor your dog when you are not physically present. Baby monitors can alert you to any barking or signs of distress.

Guidelines for dogs being in the garage

If you need your dog to be able to access the garage for short periods of time, here are some guidelines to follow:

• Only allow supervised access when you are present
• Keep visits brief, under 30 minutes at a time
• Minimize time if chemicals were recently used in the garage
• Do not leave your dog unattended, even with the garage door shut
• Keep doors leading to the outdoors closed and locked
• Ensure good ventilation with windows or fans
• Bring water and provide shade if garage gets hot
• Never leave your dog trapped in a parked car in the garage
• Keep your dog leashed or within sight at all times
• Immediately clean up any chemical or oil spills
• Check your dog’s paws and coat for contaminants before re-entering house

Even if you take precautions, the garage will likely never be as safe as being inside your home. Avoid leaving your dog unsupervised in the garage for extended periods.

Signs your dog may have gotten into something unsafe

Be alert for any of these signs that your dog may have ingested or been exposed to something dangerous in the garage:

• Drooling, lip smacking or excessive panting
• Pawing at their mouth or ears
• Difficulty swallowing
• Vomiting or gagging
• Tremors or unsteady gait
• Seizures
• Weakness or lethargy
• Dilated pupils
• Burns on skin or paws
• Respiratory distress

If you observe any concerning signs after your dog was unsupervised in the garage, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Time is of the essence.

Conclusion

While garages are filled with dangers for curious canines, dog owners can take steps to minimize the risks. With vigilance, training, and dog-proofing, your garage can be used safely when you need to keep your dog close by. However, unsupervised access to the garage should be avoided whenever possible. If your dog does ingest or come into contact with any toxins or hazards, seek emergency veterinary treatment right away. With caution and preparation, your beloved pup and your garage can co-exist in harmony.