If you have an infant and a canine companion, you likely try to childproof your home to keep both safe. One area often overlooked is dog bowls—which curious little hands can access. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent accidents. This article outlines 7 tactics to childproof your dog’s dining.
Dangers Dog Bowls Pose
Before exploring solutions, let’s review the hazards dog bowls present:
- Choking – Babies may choke on kibble or debris in the water.
- Illness – Bowls can harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly. This causes vomiting or diarrhea if ingested.
- Injury – Dogs may bite to guard resources. It’s best to separate dogs and babies during feedings.
- Drowning – Babies have drowned in bowls with just an inch of water. Always supervise young children around standing water.
So what microscopic menaces lurk in Fido’s bowl?
Bacteria in Dog Bowls
Escherichia coli and Salmonella are common contaminants. But the biofilm forming Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the primary risk.
This bacterial film thrives in standing water. Left unchecked, it creates a slippery layer housing other dangerous organisms like Staphylococcus.
Regular cleaning and disinfection kills biofilm and other germs. With effort, you can eliminate this threat to your baby’s health.
Keeping Dog Bowls Clean
Wash food and water vessels with hot, soapy water daily. Sanitize weekly using a bleach solution—approximately 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of bleach per gallon (3.8 L) of water.
Rinsing thoroughly prevents residue buildup over time. And putting dishes through the dishwasher occasionally doesn’t hurt either.
Childproofing Strategies
Below are 7 tactics to keep kids out of dog bowls:
Buy Childproof Feeders
Specialty products like the Baby-Safe Pet Feeder have kid-proof latches. Some also elevate to make access harder.
Choose Raised Stands
Elevated feeders keep food and water beyond a baby’s reach. Plus, they’re better for dogs! Consider an adjustable stand to fine tune the height as your toddler grows.
Install a Pet Fountain
Pet fountains filter and recirculate water, reducing bacterial growth risk. Their narrow design makes tipping over less likely too.
Get an Automated Feeder
Automated feeders only release kibble when triggered by a microchip in your dog’s collar. Even if baby gets to the bowl, there’s nothing to grab!
Buy a Slow Feeder
Slow feed dog bowls have mazes and obstacles allowing pups to eat safely over 10-15 minutes. This gives you time to intervene if a child sneaks a bite.
Feed in Another Room
Simply moving Fido’s food station to an unused space blocks access entirely. Use baby gates in doorways or to block off parts of larger rooms.
Train Your Tot
As soon as possible, teach little ones to avoid dog food areas using positive reinforcement. Consistency helps cement these boundaries.
Supervising feedings ensures you’re nearby if redirection becomes necessary too.
What If Baby Eats Dog Food?
Should baby sample kibble, remain calm. Commercial dog food is generally safe, though gastrointestinal upset is possible.
See your doctor if vomiting, diarrhea, or other concerning symptoms manifest. Usually, though, effects pass quickly.
The greater risk is choking on larger pieces of dog food. If this occurs, perform back blows followed by chest thrusts. Call emergency services if obstruction persists despite attempts to dislodge it.
By planning and taking a few basic precautions, you can allow your kids and dogs to safely occupy the same household. Take the threat posed by pet bowls seriously and you’ll rest easy knowing all family members stay happy and healthy.