Having a doggie door is a great advantage for people and their dogs. Your pets can freely go in and out for exercise, or go to the bathroom at their leisure. However, having a doggie door installed does pose a risk for homes. Eager burglars will use any open door to gain entrance to homes -- garage, back, side, front or doggie. When installing a doggie door, exercise any and all precautions to ensure your home is as burglar-proof as possible.
Install a motion detector above the door where the doggie door is installed. You can purchase a sensor that buzzes or makes a sound every time something comes near the door, or one that flashes a special light. In both instances, the alert will keep you conscious of your dog's comings and goings, and also warn you of any threats entering the house.
Purchase an electronic dog door kit. Although expensive, electronic doggie doors are conveniently activated by computerized dog collars that will only open for your dog. This will not only help keep out unwanted people, but will assist in keeping out stray animals that could aimlessly wander into your home.
Lock your non-electronic doggie door at night and when you are away with a deadbolt lock. Purchase a doggie door kit that comes with a sliding plate that can be locked into place with a deadbolt lock once it has been lowered over the door frame.
Place a "Beware of Dog" sign in your yard or in one of your windows most visible to the street. Even if your dog is mild-tempered and friendly, this is an important step to take if you choose to have a doggie door installed. If an intruder were interested in burglarizing your home, he'd probably reconsider if he believed an aggressive dog lived in the house.
Warnings
Consider not installing a doggie door in your home. Although there are several ways to secure a doggie door, there is never a guarantee that a burglar may never be able to get in. If you do choose to install one, follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly to secure the door and your home as much as possible.
Warnings
Consider not installing a doggie door in your home. Although there are several ways to secure a doggie door, there is never a guarantee that a burglar may never be able to get in. If you do choose to install one, follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly to secure the door and your home as much as possible.
Items You Will Need
- Motion detector
- Electronic dog door kit
- Deadbolt lock
- "Beware of Dog" sign
References
Warnings
- Consider not installing a doggie door in your home. Although there are several ways to secure a doggie door, there is never a guarantee that a burglar may never be able to get in. If you do choose to install one, follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly to secure the door and your home as much as possible.
Writer Bio
Shannon Stanton has been an avid writer since 1996. Her first short story was published in the annual publication of the National Merit Scholars organization. She pursued her interest in writing through college, where she was staff writer and editor for her school's newspaper. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Mount Holyoke College.