Pet Owners: Find Your Best Home Security System

When it comes to home security, many people think about getting a guard dog. While certain breeds of dog have proven themselves effective due to their territorial nature, approximately 50% of US households are occupied by at least one pet, so your home security system should take them into account.

A complete home security plan doesn’t just protect your property and family—it also keeps your pets safe. The key is finding a system that prevents your pet’s movements from triggering false alarms while ensuring you have the right features to benefit both your home’s safety and your pet’s well-being.

What to Look for—Home Security Systems for Pet Owners

When choosing a home security system, the first thing pet owners should consider is a pet-immune motion detector. These detectors use infrared heat sensors to detect movement, but they’re designed to ignore the activity of pets within a certain weight range, ensuring that your furry friend’s movements won’t trigger unnecessary alarms.

For small to medium-sized pets (up to 40 lbs.), it may be easier to find a motion sensor that provides high compatibility and immunity. For larger pets (up to 85 lbs), there are motion sensors specifically designed for this, offering pet immunity without sacrificing security.

If you have pets larger than 85 lbs. and need a more traditional motion detector, there are options that can be installed to focus on the top half of a room, away from where your pets typically roam. However, this might not be as effective for cats, who often jump onto high surfaces, but there are tips available for optimizing these systems in such cases.

Another essential security feature is contact sensors, which alert you when a door or window is opened. These sensors help you monitor if your pet might escape of if an intruder gains access. Many systems also offer remote access, allowing you to check the status of doors and windows from your phone if you’re away.

Additionally, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors integrated with your home security system provide you with both local and remote alerts, keeping you and your pets safe. In the event of an emergency, a professionally monitored home security system can also alert emergency responders.

Decals can be purchased to inform emergency responders of a pet, so if there is a gas leak, fire, or other unsafe condition, there is a greater chance that they will be rescued. As a preventative measure, displaying decals that show you have professionally monitored security is proven to be a deterrent to intruders, which can provide an additional layer of safety if the pets are home alone.

Why Pet Owners Need a Home Security System

Pet owners, in particular, have a lot to gain from a modern and pet friendly system. When paired with smart home devices and security cameras, they can enhance your pet’s comfort and safety. This can include cameras, smart door locks, smart plugs, and smart thermostats.

Smart cameras are equipped with video analytics to differentiate between pets, people, and vehicles, which helps reduce the chances of false alarms. Many pet owners use the live-video feed to keep an eye on their pets while they’re away. You can view the footage from a mobile app or interact through a connected security panel. And when you are home, security cameras offer added convenience by being able to notify you of things like your pet entering certain parts of your home or returning to the back door after going outside. Two-way communication allows you to speak with your pets, easing anxiety or correcting undesirable behavior (like chewing on furniture).

To help with your pet’s anxiety while you're away, you can set up automated smart lights or background noise systems. For example, you can schedule lights to turn on when it gets dark or use smart plugs to activate a radio for soothing sounds. These can be managed remotely through a mobile app to help calm pets, especially those with separation anxiety.

Many pet owners also choose to hire pet sitters or dog walkers for additional care. With smart locks, you can easily grant temporary access to these caregivers by creating unique visitor codes. Alternatively, video doorbells with two-way communication let you verify visitors before unlocking your door. For added convenience, smart garage door controllers offer secure access for package deliveries, whether you’re ordering pet food or a new toy for your furry friend.

Temperature extremes can be dangerous for pets, so having a smart thermostat is an excellent way to regulate your home’s climate. Whether it’s freezing in winter or scorching in summer, a smart thermostat can ensure your pets are comfortable while you're away. Plus, you can adjust the temperature remotely to suit your preferences when you're home.

Find the Best Security System for a House With Pets

The best plan for home security is a holistic plan that considers both your home and your family, including anything that might enhance dog home security and the security of other household pets. Ongoing support can address issues, such as reducing the sensitivity of glassbreak sensors if your dog’s bark triggers an alarm. Professional installation can also help with ideal sensor placement, preventing these from being damaged if the dog scratches at the door.

Working with a professional security monitoring company is the best way to find the perfect fit which takes everything into account. With Brinks Home™, you can count on continuous support for all your qualified equipment. Contact us today to speak with a Security Consultant for a free quote.