Pets And Your Plumbing: What You Should Know

Pets are an important part of any family, but they can be harmful to your plumbing system. While you would not typically associate plumbing problems with your pets, issues can be a result of interference from animals. Here are some ways you can pet-proof your plumbing to help keep your plumbing fully functional and your pets healthy and out of harm's way.

If your shower drains do not currently have drain guards, have them installed right away. Drain guards keep all types of hair out of your pipes, including pet hair. When you bathe a pet, the hair and undercoat could cause clogs in the drain without drain guards in place. Drain guards are inexpensive to purchase and easy to install yourself.

If you have any pipes that are open or exposed, take the time to cover them. Just like with small children, pets are attracted to all types of dangers. A simple but strong cover can prevent your dog or other pets from chewing on the pipes or any wiring. A cover for your pipes is an inexpensive way to prevent an expensive problem later on.

If you have pets, dogs in particular, who enjoy digging in the yard, be sure they are not digging near your main sewer line. Sewer lines are not very deep into the ground, and animal digging can puncture the line and cause significant problems for your entire plumbing system.

When you have a pet who enjoys digging, stay outside with them to make sure they are not digging in any important areas. Train your pet to dig in certain areas to not only prevent plumbing damage, but to prevent damage to your landscape as well.

If your home does not currently have pressure balancing valves, be sure to have them installed right away. Pressure balancing valves are not only good for your pets, but good for you and everyone in your household as well.

One way to know you do not have pressure balancing valves is if someone flushes a toilet while you are in the shower. If you get scalded while in the shower, you do not have the valves. When the valves are not installed, scalding water will quickly run out of your faucets. While this may be a mild inconvenience for you, it can be harmful to your pets.

If you have a pet and have left the toilet lid open, there is no doubt that your pet has used it as a water bowl. However, this can be dangerous for your pet. Be sure to always keep the toilet lid closed when not in use. While using chemical drain clearing agents in a toilet is not advised, residual cleaners, or soap can be dangerous if your pet ingests them through the toilet water.

Even if you are not using any chemicals to clean your toilet, you should still discourage pets from using the toilet as a source for water. It is not sanitary for them and it can make a mess in your bathroom. Keeping the lid closed will help your pets break the habit of drinking from the toilet. Always have a fresh water option available for your pets.

No matter what plumbing issue you face, the professionals at Express Plumbing & Drain can help. Our experts have been offering dependable and fast service for our customers throughout the San Fernando Valley for over 25 years. We look forward to helping you with all your plumbing needs. Reach out for assistance!