July is Dog House Repair Month. While in many households our dogs share our beds, it’s still nevertheless a good idea to have a doghouse that can offer shade and general weather protection when the family is outdoors relaxing or entertaining.
Dog houses have really come a long way in recent years. You can now find “cooling” dog houses for the “dog days” of summer, as well as insulated dog houses that can help protect against the elements year round.
If you’re building your own, there are some really fabulous doghouse designs that are not only functional from a canine standpoint but will make a nice garden feature too, such as a doghouse with a “roof top” garden to grow anything from pretty flowers to herbs. Growing roof top plants also helps to reduce heat within the doghouse. If you have a more traditional design, put on your checklist to take a close look at the framework to ensure there are no loose pieces of wood and protruding nails that could cause injury. Varnishing will protect the wood and, if you are feeling creative, consider a coat of paint in a fun color and even a design on the sides. Kids would love to be involved in such a project.
If your doghouse has a pet bed or mattress, check that it is still in good condition and doesn’t need replacing. Pet beds housed outside can be a haven for fleas and other bugs, so it needs to be washed regularly. Also, consider attaching a water bottle to the inside of the house. Bottles with a stainless-steel ball-tip valve keep water from dripping and causing a mess. However, they need to be washed out regularly and refilled to prevent algae growth. An outdoor water fountain attached to the exterior of the house or in a shady spot will also provide your pooch with water on tap.
While we’re on the subject, when was the last time you took a moment to see what condition your best friend’s outdoor house is in? Now is the perfect time to try out your DIY dog house repair skills! It is also important to remember that in recent years, many states and municipalities have adopted their own code that an outside dog house must meet. It’s important to do your research to ensure you are meeting the minimum standards in your area, and determine if there are any special considerations you should keep in mind.
There are three basic points you should make sure to address when you are inspecting and repairing your pup’s outside home. According to swiftpaws.com, they are:
- Ensuring the home is large enough for your pup – your pooch should be able to stand up, turn around, and even stretch their legs comfortably while they are inside their house. If not, it’s time for an upgrade!
- Verifying the structure provides shelter from the elements, including rain, snow, and extreme hot & cold temperatures. If your dog spends a significant amount of time in their outdoor home, it’s essential that it have proper insulation. Also, check the roof to make sure it’s water tight. You can easily repair it with plywood and a few roofing shingles. If you live in a hot climate, make sure the house is properly ventilated. And finally, everyone knows a home is all about location, location, location. Pick a shady spot for hot summer days.
- Checking items that provide comfort for your pup to make sure they’re clean, fresh, and mold free. In the winter, make sure any bedding hasn’t gotten water logged or frozen. You could also opt for straw, wood chips, or other natural, breathable materials that dry quickly – just make sure you change them regularly.
If all three points (at a minimum) are addressed, your pup will have a much more enjoyable time when they are in their outdoor home. With just a little effort and some basic DIY skills, you can make sure your pup stays happy, healthy, and comfortable in their outdoor home all the time!
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