A pet owner’s guide to electrical safety

When your children were little, time was spent on child proofing the home. From putting away frayed cords to plugging in outlet covers, you did everything to keep your children safe from electrical hazards. While most of us don’t think of it, the same type of precautions should be taken when it comes to your pets. It might seem silly, but VEC encourages you to get down on your pet’s level. Spend five minutes or so crawling and looking around, and ask yourself these questions to keep your pet and your household electrically safe:

Can my pet reach an electrical cord?

Hazard: Puppies, kittens and rabbits might chew electrical cords. Over time, those damaged cords can expose wires and create a shock or fire hazard for the pet and the home.

Tip: Route cords behind furniture, use cord covers or keep them elevated and out of your pet’s reach.

Are any of my electrical cords damaged or exposed?

Hazard: If a cord has been previously damaged or your fuzzy family member chews the cord, do not keep using it.

Tip: Replace cords or have the equipment properly repaired. This goes for all cords if there are frayed or exposed wires.

How close is my pet’s water bowl to an electrical device?

Hazard: Excited pets and water close by can create a dangerous combination.

Tip: Keep water bowls, fountains and other sources of moisture away from outlets, power strips and electrical equipment. Also, make sure cords and plugs are positioned safely with aquariums so that electrical connections stay dry.

Could my pet knock over an electrical device?

Hazard: Small appliances, chargers, heating pads and many other electrical devices can pose a risk if pets knock them over, chew their cords or get too close.

Tip: Unplug devices and store them away, if possible, when they aren’t in use, especially if you’re leaving your pet home alone. Secure cords and other devices so they can’t be easily pulled down or tipped over.

Can my pet access outdoor electrical equipment?

Hazard: While the backyard might be your pet’s favorite place to be, outdoor electrical equipment can pose serious hazards. Keep pets away from outdoor outlets, extension cords, lighting equipment and other electrical devices. We know it goes without saying, but never allow pets to approach utility equipment such as transformers, substations or pad-mounted electrical equipment.

Tip: Before letting your pet roam outdoors, check the area for accessible electrical equipment and secure or block off anything your pet could chew, knock over or otherwise disturb.

Know what to do if a pet is shocked.

While we hope this never happens, VEC wants you to know what to do just in case. If you see your pet in contact with an electrical source, do not touch your pet or attempt to pull it away with your hands. Turn off the power at the breaker if you can do so safely. Once the power is off, move your pet away from the electrical source and seek veterinary care immediately. If you cannot safely disconnect the power, call VEC at 855-940-3927 or 911 for assistance.