Whether you're a fan of cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, or gerbils, it's important not to ignore the potential harm that pets can cause in your home.
With more people working from home, pet owners are sharing photos of their pets acting as co-workers. While it may be amusing to see a cat lounging on a laptop or a dog with its paws on a keyboard, these situations can actually lead to real damage.
Many pets have sharp claws and won't hesitate to scratch computer screens, keyboards, or other devices. Additionally, if your pets are near your laptop or desktop, they could accidentally knock them off your lap or any surface they're on.
Your dog might pull on a cord while trying to remind you that it's time for a walk, or a curious cat could damage the cable or connecting port by pulling it in the wrong direction.
If a cat is climbing on furniture, it might knock your device to the ground and cause the screen to crack. Even a friendly dog might accidentally spill liquid on your keyboard while wagging its tail.
Even if a dog curls up under a desk while you're working or watching something, it can still be a risk. They might jump up suddenly if they think a neighbor is closing a door, causing printers or hard drives to fall off shelves. These devices aren't designed to withstand falls.
Other pets can also create problems. Many animals, especially rodents, enjoy chewing, and their sharp teeth can damage electronic cables. This can lead to electrical shocks for them or exposed wires that can be dangerous for you.
If you have a bunny or hamster, letting them roam freely in the room could result in them urinating on your devices. Birds might also build nests near your electrical cords, which can cause expensive damage or corrosion.
Even if you have a snake or fish, you're not completely safe. Snakes and fish may require heat lamps or aquariums, which can cause electrical surges that could harm your devices. It's a good idea to use a surge protector in these cases.
So, what can you do to mitigate the risks posed by pets? It's a good practice to keep your pets away from your personal electronics. When using your computer around animals, make sure to keep liquids far from your devices.
Store your technology in secure places, avoiding leaving it unattended on high counters or areas accessible to pets.
Bundling electronic cords can protect both your devices from damage and your pets from electrical hazards.
It's also a smart move to have your computer's internals professionally cleaned from time to time, regardless of whether you have pets or not. Dust and hair can accumulate inside, slowing down the computer's performance. A thorough cleaning can help keep your computer running smoothly for longer.
If you need assistance in setting up your home computing centers safely or securely, our experts are available to help. We can also assist with device cleaning or repairs. However, for matters like potty training or feeding mice to your snake, you'll have to handle those on your own. Call us today at 360-567-8838.
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