Pets: Indoors or Out?

We often hear statements such as "our dogs were always outside" or "animals belong outside", yet there are many reasons that animals need to be kept indoors.

Safety & Health - Dogs and cats both are much safer indoors. Outdoor or indoor outdoor cats have a much higher likelyhood of contracting Feline Leukemia or FIV, as well as heartworms and parasites. There is also the ever-present danger of cars, as well as not-so-kind people who will not help an animal, and may even harm them. Pets are also domesticated animals - they have not maintained many of the biological tools to live in the elements as humans have continued to breed them for looks and personality. Extreme heat or cold can kill your pet.

Behavior - Dogs are pack animals, and you are their pack. They want to be with you and be involved in what the pack is doing. Dogs who are on the outside may have destructive behaviors due to frustration, and will also be more likely to not be good socially because they do not have regular interaction with people.

If you are gone for extended periods of time during the day and are concerned about leaving your dog indoors unattended, consider a dog door or crate training.