Pets are just as much a part of the family as anyone else in your household, and you want to protect them from potential harm. This is why it’s important to consider all possible dangers around your property, including the garage door. Due to their sheer size and weight, garage doors can cause serious injury if proper precautions aren’t taken when using them. Here are a few tips for keeping your animal companions safe.  

Garage Door Safety for Your Pets

1. Protect the Door’s Components

When animals are left to their own devices, they can wreak havoc in your home. In the event your pet gets inside the garage, they may try chewing on the door’s tracks and cables.

Any damage will make the door unsafe to operate. Prevent this by ensuring there isn’t a way for your dog or cat to wander into the garage unsupervised.  

2. Make Sure the Safety Feature Works

Modern garage doors are designed with an automatic reverse function that prevents a door from closing all the way if any obstruction or movement is detected underneath.

This mechanism is triggered by motion sensors, which can save your pet should they decide to run under the door as it’s in operation. Make sure your door has this feature and inspect it regularly to see that it’s working correctly.

3. Don’t Use It as a Pet Door

Homeowners will often leave their garage door cracked open to give pets easy indoor/outdoor access. However, over time, the springs that hold a door up will begin to wear down.

When this happens, it becomes a significant safety hazard, as it could fall at any time. Instead of leaving the garage open, it’s best to install an actual pet door in one of your standard entry doors.

4. Schedule Annual Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is key for garage door safety. Have your door professionally inspected and serviced at least once a year.

They’ll perform tests to make sure it’s functioning properly and identify any issues that need to be addressed before a complete breakdown or accident occurs.

Whether you’re looking for a garage door upgrade or routine service, trust Homenik Door Co, Inc to take care of all your needs. They offer high-quality installations, repairs, and maintenance, as well as beautiful and durable products that are built to fit any home. This locally owned and operated company has proudly served residents throughout Lorain County, OH, for 65 years. Call (440) 327-7270 to request an estimate or visit them online for more information on what they do.