Pets rely on us for safety, too

As Americans, we often treat pets as if they're children. When you compare what we do for our pets with what we do for our children, it's not all that different: Safety is always a primary concern, whether our children have two legs or four.

Not surprisingly, some entrepreneurs have made that observation, as well. They've come up with several out-of-the-ordinary pet safety products that bear a strong resemblance to popular children's safety products.

From indoors to outdoors

Children's portable playpens keep youngsters safe, secure and out of trouble. Outdoor enclosures do the same for indoor pets, particularly cats, that might enjoy time on a balcony. Or pets that live on busy streets or in apartments.

Lisa Illman designed an outdoor enclosure so her indoor cats could enjoy time in the sunshine. Passers-by saw it and she was so overwhelmed with inquiries, she had to remove the battery from her doorbell.

"I live in the city and know what it's like to have limited outdoor space," said Illman, who dubbed the enclosures Kritter Kondos and formed the company Kritter Kommunity. "I wanted to create a catio (think patio) for my cats so they could enjoy the outdoors as much as I do!"

The original Kritter Kondo sells for $105, shipping included. Go to www.kritter kommunity.com.

Air travel's in the bag

A child's car seat keeps the child safe and prevents distractions to the driver; pet carriers do the same.

When traveling by air, pets riding in the cabin must be in a carrier that meets the airline's criteria. Many pet carriers are marked "airline approved," but the small print leaves travelers guessing whether it's the right carrier for their traveling.

A program called Guaranteed On Board from Sherpa Pet Group ensures traveling pets are in the right carriers. If a traveler completes the online form accurately and is denied boarding because of his or her Sherpa carrier, the company will refund the cost of the airline ticket and the pet travel fee. Sherpa has partnered with many major airlines; for a complete list, go to www.FlyGOB.com.

Sherpa products are available at a number of major retailers. At Petco, an American Airlines carrier for pets up to 16 pounds sells for $44.

Emergency!

Would first responders know there may be a child is in that burning home? Could you recall vital information about your child's health in an emergency? What about pets?

Just as parents might place a "child finder" decal on a bedroom window, it's important to alert first responders of the number of pets in the home. Pet parents should also carry their pet's medical history, proof of ownership and vaccinations, emergency and veterinary contact information, and caregiver instructions. A handy way to do this is to keep the information in your car's glove box.

Wag'N Rover Respond'R Mobile Emergency Information Kit includes home and vehicle alert decals, as well as a pet's medical history, veterinary and owner contact information, and caregiver instructions. It sells for $19.95 at www.wagn4u.com.

Reflecting pet safety

Although most people would not put a collar on their child, they'd likely make sure their child's bicycle has reflectors.

Putting a reflective collar on your dog or cat is a great way to help increase visibility to vehicles, especially if you walk your pet in the evening, if your pet stays outdoors or is an escape artist.

Collars, leads and even safety walking vests and flotation devices are available with ultrareflective capabilities. A new technology called Lunabrite emits light in darkness. Collars start at $19.95 at www.Lunabritepet.com.

One gate, multiple species

When a new puppy starts exploring your home, it's time to install pet gates wherever there are potential hazards: the top of stairs, the bottom of stairs and in between rooms. Safety gates act as barricades that communicate which areas are off-limits, just like with children.

There are several types of gates available - pressure-mounted, hardware-mounted, and free-standing safety. Consider where the gate will be placed to determine which type is appropriate. For example, a pressure-mounted gate is not safe on a staircase.