If you own a pet, you know just how important they are. They’re a part of the family, whether they’re a dog that greets you at the door or a cat that explores every corner of the house before curling up on your lap. They share your home with you, and so any security system you have should be able to work around their daily routines.

Unfortunately, a lot of pet owners believe that they have to choose between installing an intruder alarm and letting their pets move freely around the house. Or, they don’t bother to switch on the alarm at all, since they think their pets would set it off all the time. Neither of these are ideal options! But the good news is, modern security systems are designed with pet owners in mind.

Pet Friendly Alarm Systems

One of the biggest misconceptions about burglar alarms is that pets will automatically set them off the second they move. It’s such a widespread concern that many pet owners don’t even bother setting their alarms at all. And while that used to be the case, the good news is that technology has evolved since then.

Since pets have become more and more common in the home, security manufacturers have had to design products that work with them, not against them. Now, most modern alarm systems are designed to accommodate pet and their movements using pet-friendly motion detectors that can distinguish between human movement and the movement of smaller animals. Depending on the sensor type, they can ignore pets up to a certain weight while still being able to detect genuine intruders. So your dog can move around the house and your cat can jump onto furniture without triggering the alarm. And if you have a very large pet, a specialist security engineer will be able to advise you on a system that will meet your needs.

What is Pet Mode?

A lot of modern alarm systems, even if they’re not specifically marketed as ‘pet-friendly’ will have something called ‘pet mode’. When this is activated, the system adjusts the sensitivity of selected sensors with the aim of reducing the likelihood of pets triggering the system, while still maintaining security throughout the property. This mode means you can leave your alarm on and your pets can continue their normal activities without setting of the alarm. But it’s important to remember that every home is different, which is why it’s important to speak to a professional before choosing your system.

Extra Security Options for Pet Owners

Alongside a pet-friendly alarm system, there are a few other security measures you can take.

CCTV systems: Modern CCTV systems let you monitor your property remotely using a smartphone, tablet or a computer. It enhances security, but for pet owners it also means you have a way to check in on your furry friends throughout the day.

Video doorbells: Video doorbells provide instant notifications whenever someone approaches your property. So, whether you’re at work or on holiday, you can see who’s at your door and communicate with visitors remotely.

Smart home integration: A lot of security systems can be integrated with smart home technology, so you can control alarms, cameras and notifications from a single app, giving you more convenience and control, even when you’re busy.

Professional Installation Makes a Difference

Choosing the right alarm system is only part of the process when it comes to making your home burglar proof and pet safe. You also need the right person to install it. While yes, you can do it yourself, professional installation means you know your sensors are positioned properly and configured to work effectively alongside your pets. Experienced security engineers can assess your property, understand your requirements and recommend a solution that will give you reliable protection without unnecessary false alarms.

If you’ve been avoiding getting or setting your alarm because you’re worried about your pets triggering it, now is the time to get in touch. At Securifix, we can provide you with advice and support for pet-safe security options, from enquiry to installation. If you’d like to find out more, just get in touch with the team today for your free consultation.