Making your waste bin dog-proof
Many pets, especially dogs, are curious. On a whim, our four-legged friends investigate almost all objects in the house, either because these objects look fun or because they smell interesting. Often, the rubbish bin is enticing to dogs, who tend to knock them over and clear them out. Rubbish scattered on the kitchen floor is not only a nuisance, but can also be a real danger for pets as it could contain toxic pieces of waste. To prevent this, we have put together the most important steps you can take to pet-proof your waste bin.
Why waste is dangerous for pets
Dogs in particular, with their keen sense of smell, are instinctively attracted to the smell of rubbish. The kitchen waste bin is often affected, as it usually contains leftover food. However, in addition to many foods that are incompatible with pets, the kitchen rubbish can also contain dangerous waste such as string, chewing gum, packaging, or raw meat. If your pup swallows this, they may suffer from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or poisoning. This could be life-threatening.
The waste bin in the bathroom also poses a risk. This is because it often contains dangerous small parts, medicines or cosmetics as well as toxic cleaning agents. Since the waste bin in the bathroom is usually lower and deeper than the kitchen waste bin, it is usually even easier for the pet to access.
When emptied waste bins become a danger for the family
A rubbish bin emptied by a pet can also become a potential threat to humans. If the pet empties the bin and spreads it around the room, toxic substances such as expired or harmful medicines and germs from spoiled food can get onto the floor. If there are babies or small children in the household, this can become a particularly dangerous.
How do I pet-proof my bin?
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can follow to prevent your pet from cleaning out the bin.
1. The location of the bin
The safest way to protect your pet from the contents of the bin is to choose a hidden bin location. A good option is to place the waste bin in a cupboard below the sink. Built-in waste bins are particularly suitable for this. The HAILO EcoLine Design is a built-in waste separation system with full pull-out. With four screws, it can be fitted in hinge-door and base cabinets on the right, left or in the middle as required. Because the bin is secured with a cupboard door - and possibly a childproof lock - your four-legged friend won’t be able to access the waste bin. If you have a larger bin or waste bin, you can also hide it safely in a storage cupboard with a door that remains closed at all times.
2. The handling of the waste bin
Another advantage of a bin stowed in a cupboard over many free-standing bins is that it does not need a pedal to open. This is because the waste bin pedal can quickly become an exciting game for intelligent pets, if your dog learns the opening mechanism of the waste bin. This is another reason why built-in waste bins, as opposed to pedal models, are a more suitable choice for pet owners.
3. The stability of the bin
If it’s not possible to place the bin in a built-in cupboard or a closed pantry, it is even more important to choose a stable bin. If the bin is heavy and stays securely in place, your pet will not be able to push it away or knock it over. When buying a waste bin, you should look for stable models. The HAILO Pure product line is recommended here. The designer waste bins made of powder-coated sheet steel or stainless steel ensure a high level of stability with an elliptical base ring and anti-slip feet. Another option is to place weights in the bottom of your waste bin. A quick remedy here is, for example, some sand or a few stones.
As you can see, there are some helpful tips that you can use to pet-proof your bin in no time at all. So you can confidently say goodbye to the overturned kitchen bin and enjoy a relaxing time with your four-legged friend.