Doghouse Repair Tips

July is Doghouse Repair Month! It’s always great for Fido to have his own little spot to hang out in. However, it can be easy to overlook your canine buddy’s outdoor room. It’s important to make sure your pet’s doghouse is safe and in good condition! A Wheat Ridge, CO vet offers some advice on repairing Fido’s outdoor home below.

Give It A Good Cleaning

Fido’s doghouse is probably due for a good scrub down. Use a pet-safe, unscented product, and use a pressure washer or a hose set to the highest-pressure setting to rinse.

Inspection

Take a close look at your pet’s doghouse. (Fido will likely be happy to hang out with you and keep you company as you do this.) You’ll want to address sharp edges, holes, and leaks. Watch for anything sticking out, such as screws or nails, that could hurt your furry pal.

Roof

Make sure that Fido’s roof isn’t leaking. One way to check? Just aim the hose at it, and then look inside after. Be sure to replace any shingles or sections that are leaking or damaged.

Leveling

It’s also a good idea to check and make sure that your pup’s doghouse is still level. It won’t be very comfortable if it’s leaning to the side! The doghouse should also be raised up a bit, so that snow and rain don’t get in. Don’t leave a big gap beneath it, though: that could become a tempting hideout for uninvited guests, such as mice and snakes.

Yardwork

This one may be a bit extra, but it will also look great once it’s done. Give your pup’s home a makeover by adding a coat of fresh paint. (Use something that is non-toxic, just in case Fido tries to eat his hideout.) You can also give the doghouse a ‘pupgrade’ by adding a little deck, some artificial grass, or perhaps some pet-safe plants or flowers. For extra tail wags, put a sandbox or kiddie pool in your canine friend’s personal yard.

Bedding

It may sound like putting a comfy bed into Fido’s doghouse would be a great idea, but it actually isn’t. Bedding will attract fleas, bugs, and possibly even rodents. A thick mat is a better bet.

As your local Wheat Ridge, CO animal clinic, we are dedicated to offering great care. Please contact us for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs.