Pet Doors: Make Sure They Fit You, Not Just Your Pet

You love your pet, and know that giving your favorite dog or feline the freedom to go outside and come back on her own will help keep her healthy and active. A pet door is the best way to give your special friend that kind of independence, but before you install one keep in mind that since it will change your home, the door should accommodate not just what’s best for your four-legged pal, but you, as well.

First, you’ll want to make sure the door is the right size, not just for now, but in the future: after all, your adorable Doberman pup won’t stay small forever. In general, a small door will work for cats and dogs under twenty pounds, a medium sized door will work for animals under forty pounds, and anything over forty pounds will require a large or even extra large door.

Next, think of the weather where you live. If your home is exposed to frigid winters or blazing hot summers, you’ll want to consider what kind of pet door can withstand such harsh conditions, year after year. For example, a plastic door might deform when exposed to intense summer heat, while an aluminum door, being a poor insulator, could let in too much of the cold during winter.

Finally, consider security when installing a pet door. Besides your cat or dog, the door could potentially allow insects, raccoons, or even human intruders inside, if appropriate measures aren’t taken. If this is a potential issue for you, you may wish to look into doors fitted with special electronic locks that allow your pet to come and go, but which bar entry to unwanted critters.

When it comes to pet doors, you truly do get what you pay for, so consider the benefits different types of doors provide, before you buy. If you’d like to talk with one of our personnel about the right door for you and your furry companions, call us at 0414 922 751.