Fire Pits and Pets: What You Need to Know
Many pets have been burned by fire pits. Is it truly safe to put one in your backyard, or at your camp site, if you are going to have your pet with you? It is, but you will have to take certain precautions to protect your pet.
It’s certainly safer to get a fire pit that is elevated from the floor and has a cover over it. This variety of fire pits prevent pets from approaching the dangerous fire or equipment. However, the surface of these get hot so you will still have to keep a diligent eye on the pet. Teach the pet to avoid being right next to the fire pit. You should work to admonish your pet to stay away when there is no fire.
To keep your pet safe when you walk together out of door, put them on a leash so that they will not wander off. If you have a very small pet, keep her on your lap, or in a chair next to you. Big animal pets can be trained to become faithful to you.
Do not allow pets or children near a fire pit or tabletop fire bowl without supervision. Even after the flames have been extinguished the surface area will be dangerously hot for some time. Flames usually intimidate pets but they will explore the area once the flames have died down. Never leave your pet unattended, even if you think it is well trained.
Unprotected fires are a much more serious risk for your pet. Sometimes an animal can get burned by being too close to a firepit before you know what’s happening. If you build a fire on the ground, you should keep the pet restrained at all times. A short leash that allows the pet, it is to be right next to you and it is an advisable solution.
You must not allow the pet to get near the ashes of any ground fire even after they have cooled. As a litter box, cats will have a natural instinct to use the ashes. This is unsanitary for you when you have to clean the ashes up, unaware of the mess hidden in them. There may also be warm embers deep beneath the ashes that could burn the pet when they dig to the bottom.
Always make sure the fire is completely out and the ashes are cleaned up before allowing your pet access to the area. This is extremely probable for backyard fire pits when taken into consideration that the animal is accustomed to running around freely for recreation or potty breaks.
You can enjoy your fire pit and keep your pet safe from harm. Teach a dog or cat to keep clear, but don’t take it for granted that it will.
