Ideal Pet Door Installation

The function of a pet door is to allow freedom for both the pet owner and the pet. Cats and dogs can use pet doors, though most often they're used for dogs. A pet door can be located in a traditional door, or even in a window. Pets can enter and exit freely without the assistance of their owners. There are many considerations to keep in mind for pet door installation if you want to have the perfect one for your dog, cat or both.

  1. Location

    • You will need to select the location for a pet door prior to installation. One commonsense concern to address when you choose a location is the area the door will allow access to. Is there an enclosure already available? You wouldn't want a pet door to allow your dog or cat to go into a completely open area that would let them stray off your property and away from home. The most obvious selection for a pet door will be a door or window that leads to an enclosed area outside for your pet's safety.

    Electromagnetic Opening

    • One feature to consider for pet door installation would be electromagnetic opening. Your pet will wear a collar that is read by the pet door. After reading the pet collar, it will automatically unlock. This is a good consideration if you have wildlife or stray animals that frequent your yard. An electromagnetic opening will prevent unwanted visitors from entering your home through the pet door.

    Sizing

    • The ideal pet door installation will be a door that will be easy for your pet to enter and exit in comfort. The pet door should be a couple inches taller and wider than your pet. This will ensure your pet doesn't get stuck in the door and suffer an accident or possible injury.

    Window Units

    • It is important to have the right sizing for window pet door units. Additionally, there needs to be enough space on the window ledge and low window drop-down to make sure the pet is safe entering and exiting the home. These types of units also come with infrared and electromagnetic detectors to allow only your pet to enter your home.

    Battery Operation

    • Battery operation is the optimum power source for pet door installations. Battery operation means there will always be access to get through the pet door, even during a power outage. Additionally, there will be no need for power cords or electrical items near the door to operate it. Just make certain to keep plenty of rechargeable batteries on hand.

    Multiple Pet Option

    • If you have multiple pets, you're not going to want a separate pet door installation for each. Some pet doors come with multiple collars to allow entrances and exits by multiple pets within the household. The doors can be programmed to allow only your pets through them, while keeping out stray pets and other unwanted visitors.