Your garage door protects and insulates the garage, and your pet offers companionship. Both are important to you, but that doesn’t mean they mix well. In fact, animals don’t always understand how they can be hurt by such a door, so you need to be careful on their behalf. Review this brief guide to keep your furry friend safe while in the garage.

3 Tips for Pet Safety Around Garage Doors

1. Keep Track of Pet's Location

While many overhead doors are equipped with sensors that make them stop closing if someone is detected under them, many pets are too small or fast to be noticed by these devices. It’s better to be constantly aware of your pet’s location and proximity to the garage.

That way, you’re less likely to close the door on them. Also, if you need to keep your pet in one place, put them in the house or inside an enclosed pen rather than tying them to the door.

2. Prevent Damage

Don't allow your pet to bite or scratch various parts of the garage door, such as the springs and cables. These parts could become weak or broken, raising the likelihood that a cable will snap or the door will fall.

Also, refrain from keeping the door partially open to allow your pet to move in and out. This compromises the security of the garage, and continuously holding the door like that can wear out the springs. Instead, consider installing a pet door on the side or back of the garage.

3. Maintain the Door

Garage doors need regular attention to stay in good condition. For example, you may occasionally need to oil the parts or get spring repairs. 

Schedule a professional technician for routine maintenance on the door at least twice a year. If you ever have trouble opening or closing the door or hear strange sounds when you operate it, contact a technician to diagnose and repair the problem before it becomes serious.

For more advice about keeping your pets safe around your garage door, contact CGX Overhead Door LLC in Eureka, MO. Serving Wildwood, St. Charles, St. Peters, Ballwin, and the Greater St. Louis area, these professionals have provided budget-friendly solutions to homeowners since 2010. Call (314) 550-9212 or check out their website to learn more about their services.