Plumbing and pets are a terrible mix. Not only does a homeowner need to protect their plumbing from their pet, but they also need to protect their pet from the plumbing. Today we’re going to talk about the dangers of mixing pets and plumbing and ways to protect both.
Keep the commode lid closed
Keeping your pet’s water dish full is an excellent first step, but even with a full water bowl, some pets find the convenience of the toilet irresistible. It’s a bad habit for a pet to learn. First, because toilets can be full of germs even when the bowl water is ‘clean.’ But, also, some families use cleaners or even ‘continual cleaning’ products in their toilet tank, which then fills the bowl. Don’t risk poisoning your beloved pet during cleaning day! Ask everyone in the home to get into the habit of keeping the lid down all the time.
Avoid plastic appliance lines.
Whether it’s your washing machine line, refrigerator supply line, or some other appliance, plastic lines can be a temptation for playful pets to gnaw. Chewing them can cause a flood in the kitchen, bath, laundry area, or garage. We have always warned against plastic appliance lines, and this is yet another reason to avoid them.
If your pet seems to find any portion of your plumbing interesting or starts chewing on plumbing components, find a way to wrap or cover it so they’ll be less inclined to destroy them, whether they are a supply or waste line, or even a valve or faucet.
No indoor baths
Everyone has had the experience of the dog sneaking a dip in the pool or playing in the sprinkler, before rolling in the grass or dirt. But, when your pet gets dirty, it’s essential not to use the tub or shower to bathe the animal. The fur and dirt magnify the possibility of a clog. If you can’t wash your pet outdoors, take them to a carwash with a pet bay for dog washing, or to a groomer for a bath, to be on the safe side.
We love our pets and want them to be safe, but we love functional plumbing, too. With minimal effort, we can keep both safe from the other.
