How to Stop Your Pet from Destroying Your Blinds

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean (Hawkes Bay Chem-Dry)

From a dog’s point of view, blinds are just an obstacle keeping them from the window. When there’s a something outside, the blinds just become a casualty of the resulting frenzy to get out there. Keep blinds raised part-way to allow your pup to see out and avoid wreckage. Avoid this issue by teaching your dog to stay calm in exciting situations.

Many dogs, especially as puppies, will chew on anything in sight. If your blinds have become your pets teething stick, it’s because he doesn’t have anything else to chew on. Deter dogs from gnawing on blinds by spraying slats with sour apple spray (available at pet stores). It smells and tastes terrible to dogs but is neutral to humans.

When you’re away from home, keep your dog in a safe room and give them special toys that are otherwise hidden away. Treat-filled toys and meat flavoured bones are especially appealing. With these toys to keep them preoccupied, they won’t think twice about the blinds.

Dogs can be like children; they have a lot of energy and it will find a way out whether you provide it or not. With this in mind, give your dog an opportunity to tire themselves out and your home might not become a race track.

What are the pet-friendliest window dressings?
Try vertical blinds. Furry friends can nudge slats out of the way to see out the window and they’ll fall back into place afterwards. If pets chew on blind slats, you can order individual replacements instead of getting a whole new set. If pet hair and grime are a problem, just wipe them clean with soap and water.

Venetian blinds have wide enough openings between slats for curious pets who just want to see out. But if you have a dog with a chewing problem, slats can be vulnerable to damage.

Roller shades are good window treatments for peeking pets. Animals can easily slip behind without damaging the shade and they’re easy to clean.

Try to avoid:
- Venetian Blinds - Bent slats. Enough said.
- Mini Venetian Blinds - Pets won’t be able to see through and will paw at slats.
- Puddled Drapes - When drapes drag on the floor it’s hard to keep them clean and free from pet hair

My dog broke my blinds, my curtains are ripped. Now what?
Don’t worry - paying full price for a replacement blind isn’t your only option. Curtain Clean not only specialises in cleaning your window treatments, but we can repair damage done by your beloved pet pals.


From replacing broken head tape to re-oiling wooden venetians, Curtain Clean are industry experts in restoring curtains and blinds for a fraction of the replacement cost. Bring your window dressings in for clean & repair today.


www.curtainclean.co.nz...