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A pet door is a great way to control your favourite furry companion’s access to the outside world. It allows them to go outside when they need or want to, but also allows you to keep them in when you have to. However, they are not always the right solution. They can be difficult to install on certain types of doors or windows; they need to be replaced if your pet outgrows them; and they often require you to permanently damage a door by cutting a hole in it. They will also often require quite a bit of training and coercion to actually get your pet to start using them. If you face any of these challenges you may need to explore pet door alternatives. This article takes a deeper look at why you may need a pet door alternative, and what your options are.

Things to keep in mind when looking for a pet door alternative

If you are looking for a pet door alternative then you may already be aware of the points listed below. Pet doors are seen as the “go-to” option, but they are not without their shortcomings. You should always consider the following points before installing a pet door in your home.

Size of animal

Pet doors are not a one size fits all solution. The size of your pet will determine the size of the door. Larger dogs will need a large sized pet door, while you may need a smaller door for smaller dogs or cats. Another important aspect to consider is how much your pet will grow. You may need to install a smaller door for a puppy and then increase the size as your pet gets bigger.

Energy of your pet

Depending on the breed or species, you may need to give your pet  more or less access to the outside world. Pets with high energy levels will need a great deal of exercise and so a pet door is a good solution as you won’t need to let them in and out constantly. For cats or dogs with lower energy levels a solution that allows you to close it up when they don’t need it would be preferred.

Placement of pet entryway

Another important area to consider is where the pet entryway will be situated. Is it adjacent to a space where you spend lots of time? Does it open onto a space that is safe for your pet? Questions like these will help you determine whether your pet door needs to be weatherproofed, or whether it needs to be locked when you aren’t around to supervise your pet.

Will a pet door be the best option?

If any of these limitations on conventional pet doors apply to you and your pet, then you may require a pet door alternative. While there are a few options available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In the following section we look at some of the alternatives available, including some variations on conventional pet doors, which might better suit your needs.

Alternatives to the conventional pet door installation

There are many alternatives and variations on the classic pet door. From high tech options that work with microchips to lockable window and door latches, this section of the article looks at what alternative might be right for you.

Patio pet door

Many backyards are accessed through patio doors and these types of doors pose unique challenges when it comes to installing a pet door. They may require you to cut through the glass, or install a special panel with a built in door, and both these options can be costly and complicated to implement.

Electronic pet door

If you would like more control over your pets comings and goings then an electronic or smart pet door may be the perfect solution for you. These doors feature automatic locks, which can either be locked by you or programmed to only open when your pet is nearby. These smart devices use your pet’s microchip to only provide access for the right pet, which is also great if you have problems with other animals coming into your home.

Door flaps

Door flaps are a general term referring to a variety of doggie doors and cat flaps, and we’ve already covered the advantages and disadvantages in some detail. While door flaps are one of the more popular options they are difficult to install on some types of doors, and because of the design they are prone to letting in cold weather. For larger door flaps they may also pose a security risk, as they could provide a security weak spot for a determined burglar.

Screen doors

Screen doors come with their own challenges. While it is relatively easy to cut a pet-sized hole in a screen door, it may take some DIY skills to do it properly. You may need to install a special attachment or create an edging for the opening to prevent tearing of the door.

Pet doors for windows

This option may be more relevant to cat owners, but if your pet prefers to enter and exit the home through a window then you may need to consider installing a specialised cat door. Depending on the type of window and pet door selected, this may require you to either remove the window pane or cut a hole in the glass for installation.

Adjustable pet lock latches for doors and windows

One pet access solution that offers all of the advantages without any of the drawbacks are lockable window or door latches. LockLatch offers three different lockable latches, with each one suitable for different pet types and situations. These patented latches are constructed from C304 stainless steel and feature an adjustable arm, which allows you to tailor the size of the opening to your pet’s needs.

PetLatch features a gap that can be adjusted between 16 and 23 cm, which makes it perfect for small to medium sized dogs, while LockLatch allows for openings between 9 and 17cm making it ideal for cats or small dogs. Finally, MiniLatch features a smaller opening, which makes it ideal for pet owners who want to keep their pet indoors while still allowing them to benefit from fresh air flowing through the home.

Benefits of the PetLatch

The major benefit of LockLatch, PetLatch and MiniLatch is that they allow you to keep your doors or windows open, while locking them securely in place. This means that you can allow your pet to come and go as they please without having to worry about security risks from leaving doors or windows open.

Cost-effectiveness

When compared to other solutions these devices are a truly cost effective solution. Not only are they affordable, but they come with a lifetime guarantee meaning they will serve you and your pet’s needs for years to come. They also don’t require you to cut holes in doors or windows, and because they are adjustable the size of the opening can be changed as your pet grows without needing to install a new solution.

Hassle-free installation

Speaking of installation, all three devices are designed to install in minutes on any type of door or window. Not only does this mean that installation is hassle-free, but you also don’t need to hire someone to install it for you. Furthermore, because they are versatile enough to fit on any type of door or window, you can install them on your pet’s preferred entrypoint, meaning you won’t have to spend time training them to use this entry.

Safety and security

At their core LockLatch, PetLatch and MiniLatch are security devices, which are intended to make your home safer for you and your family. When used to provide access for your pet, these security features are still in place providing you with a truly safe pet door alternative.

Get a pet door alternative with LockLatch’s innovative Pet Latch product today.

Since PetLatch from LockLatch is affordable, easy to install and versatile enough to fit on any type of door or window it provides a universal alternative to conventional pet doors. Provide your pet with safe and secure access by installing a PetLatch (or LockLatch) today.

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