Thinking of keeping your pet in your garage while at work? When done right, it can be a great environment for your dog, cat or other animal! Follow our how-to guide and learn how to make your garage a safe, comfy home for your dog. If Fido tends to chew up your furniture or suffers from separation anxiety when no one is home, why not create a space just for him?
In today’s blog post, let’s explore the idea of using the whole garage as a gigantic crate for your dog. Let’s make your four-legged friend the happiest on the block!
First Step:
Before diving in, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of transforming your garage into a dedicated space for your pet instead of using a crate in your home.
- In the garage, your pet will have more room to play and exercise. If your dog is crate-trained, it can still be used as a safe place when you are away. Simply move the crate into the garage and leave the door open. Now, your dog can curl up in its crate anytime.
- Another advantage of using a heated garage is that your pet will be protected from bad weather. When pets are left outside in winter, there is always a chance of frostbite, even when using a doghouse. The temperature change from the inside and outside of your home can be substantial, which can be punishing for pets that spend most of their time indoors.
- Some dogs have a habit of barking when cars or pedestrians go by. Staying in the garage instead of by the living room window can help reduce this annoying habit. Your neighbors will appreciate the quiet. A new, well-insulated (R‑16) garage door is an excellent sound barrier to muffle any barking, and it will also stop the cold or heat from entering your home.
Introducing Your Pet to the New Space:
For pets that have already reached full maturity, it’s a good idea to introduce a new environment gradually. Start slowly, a few hours at a time, until your pet is happy spending the day in its new home. Some dog owners prefer to first limit their pet to a smaller area by using gates or barriers. For safety reasons, please do not use a leash to limit your pet to a specific area of your garage.
If your dog is housebroken, there’s no reason for it to start soiling the garage. For a young puppy, however, it may be a good idea to put down some newspaper in a corner, just in case. Cats will naturally use their litterbox – just place one in the garage.
With time, as your dog comes to associate the garage as a safe home, you will be able to allow full access to the space. To reduce separation anxiety, always spend time with your dog before leaving for work. When you bring your pet to the garage, give it a treat. Your pet will soon be trained to see your garage as a positive environment.
Temperature and Insulation
If your garage is not already insulated, you will need to do so before using the room for your pet. Heating a garage without proper insulation is of no use! Remember that a well-insulated garage will also keep the heat and humidity out during the summer. An insulated, weatherproof garage door will make the temperature pleasant for your dog or cat.
In wintertime, set the garage temperature at 50°F (10°C) or higher. In summertime, leave a window open if possible for fresh air.
Is humidity an issue in your garage? Humidity can make a space uncomfortable and can cause damage. Luckily, it’s possible to reduce indoor humidity by using a dehumidifier. Choose one that includes a hygrometer to measure the amount of humidity in the air. Aim for a humidity level below 50 per cent to keep your pet comfortable.
Feeding Your Pet
When introducing a new environment to your pet, do not change your feeding routine. Leave food the same way you were in your home – simply follow the recommendations on the bag of pet food. Your pet likely won’t be as active in your absence. Dogs love to keep all of their energy so they are ready to play when you get home!
Don’t forget to leave water for your pet. Make sure the bowl you choose can’t be easily knocked over, leaving your pet without water for the rest of the day.
Comfort and Activity
Provide your dog or cat a pet bed to keep them comfortable. Pet beds also protect animals from the concrete floor, which can be cold or humid in wintertime. However, on hot days, your pet may prefer to curl up on the cool floor, which is also fine. Give your pet a variety of toys to keep them occupied. Some pet owners leave one of their T-shirts in their pet’s bed since it contains their scent. If your pet is used to a noisy home, a radio may be a source of comfort.
Each morning, make sure your dog has enough treats or toys to gnaw on. This will keep them busy, distracting them from chewing on something they shouldn’t.
Remove Dangerous Items
It’s essential to get rid of anything that could harm your pet. Look for dangerous liquids and materials that could be swallowed or chewed on. For the safety of your entire family, it’s important to secure all dangerous or poisonous items under lock and key. Vacuum floors after do-it-yourself projects to ensure no small parts are left behind. All ropes and cords also need to be secured as your pet could become tangled up.
For large items such as tractors or motorcycles, cover them to discourage your pet from damaging or chewing on the seat.
If Your Garage Door Isn’t Properly Insulated…
If your garage door – your fourth wall – is not insulated and weatherproof, contact us today at 1-877-794-4223. We will be happy to show you our entire range of garage doors. We will help you choose the right door and make your garage safe for your pet. For your convenience, you may also use our online quotation form for a free estimate.
Thinking of changing your garage door soon? Use our online design center to try out different garage door styles and colors, or explore our image gallery.
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