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So it’s time to buy that pet gate you’ve been looking for but just haven’t found the time. What are the things you should be looking for before making that purchase? Have you even decided where the gate’s going to go in your house yet? If not, then that the first step.

With over 14 styles of gates and an equal number or more manufacturers you need to consider a few things before making the final choice. You might consider writing a list of the items you think about so when you start searching the different styles you can compare notes, so to speak.

You know where you want to put it so the first question is, “is this a high traffic area”? This is a big consideration because if you are constantly moving thru this area the type of gate you choose will either be a major hindrance or a nice addition to your decor. If not then you won’t need to consider a walk-thru type gate.

If the answer is yes then you really should get a walk-thru gate. Here’s why. Without an opening or “door” you’ll be climbing over the gate every single time you need to get by. If there are elder people in the house this is an accident waiting to happen. Even if there aren’t elderly people how many times will you have something you’re carrying that would make climbing unsafe and uncomfortable?

There are several other features that you need to consider before you make a decision on the type of pet gate to buy.

Material of construction – There 3 most common materials are metal (including steel and aluminum), plastic and wood. Each of the materials has pros and cons which come into play depending on a number of factors. Costs, size of animal, how aggressive is the pet, room available for a gate and décor all might influence what you buy.

Ease of use – We’ve already discussed high traffic areas but how about actually using the gate in the house. Maybe you only want one gate but will want to use it in several locations in the house. Is it easily set up and moved so I can I use it in several areas of the house? Will it be wide enough? Can I easily adjust it to fit?

Safety – Too many people don’t consider that the gate needs to be safe for the pet. If they love to chew, a plastic gate may do more harm than good. If they’re a smaller breed are there any places in the gate where they can get stuck or hurt? Maybe there’s too much space between the slats.

Are there children around – Gates designed for pets are not supposed to be used for keeping children confined in an area. Small pieces, pinch points, sharp edges, pointed objects and other items can cause a child to be seriously hurt. Conversely a gate made for children, isn’t necessarily the right one for a pet. Again the design does not incorporate safety concerns if a pet is around.
Consider buying a gate that will be safe and durable both for a child and pet. The gate should carry a JPMA, Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association or ASTM F1004-07 certification if it is to be used for a child.

There are many options for pet owners when it comes to taking care of their pets needs. Considering all the facts helps make that decision a wise one so you don’t feel like you misspent your money. Keeping your pets confined with a pet gate will make them much calmer but let them stay involved with what’s going on. They just want to be part of the family.