Warm Zones for Pets  continued

Some run on oil, others can be plugged in.  Some are made to heat up an entire room, while others simply warm up the space in front of them.  Some oscillate while others just sit there.  Some even come with a remote control.  Depending on your usage, an investment in space heaters could pay for itself in a month or two. 

It's a good idea to do some research and read reviews before you buy a space heater.  Make sure that the heater provides enough heat for the space.  Some space heaters are made just for minor heating of the space right in front of them.  They are not capable of heating up a corner of a room much less the entire room.

Please think about safety first.  When selecting your space heater, consider the safety issue above all else.  You may have more heat for less energy with a radiant heater (think of the orange or white glow of light and metal to reflect it outward) but more safety with a ceramic blow-type heater. 

It all depends on where and how you will use it.  Make sure you have a flat and stable surface to place the heater on and nothing flammable anywhere near it.    Some space heaters turn off automatically when knocked over while others provide hardware for mounting on a wall. 

If you need an extension cord, make sure to get one that is heavy duty enough for this usage.  Make sure that you read all of the safety instructions about flammable items near the space heater and consider proper venting if required.  Make sure that your pets (especially young ones) cannot chew any part of the cord or heater.  If you think this will be an issue, rub exposed areas with Bitter Apple or some other unpleasant-tasting substance.

Gel Fireplaces
These curious pieces of furniture don't require venting or any special installation.  Just set up the 'fireplace', add an alcohol-based gel fuel pack, light it and you have an instant fireplace anywhere in the house you please. 

They don't provide a huge amount of heat but neither do many regular fireplaces as much of the heat they generate is vented to the outside.  This is a fairly expensive and not as practical a suggestion as space heaters and blanket covered kennels but we thought it was an interesting idea anyway.  We've always liked the idea of the pet cat, dog or gerbil warming itself on the family hearth. 

Stay Warm, Save Energy
A constantly heated house can dry out everything from your dog's coat to your nice dining room furniture.  It's not only expensive and wasteful, it can be uncomfortable and even unhealthy. 

It may take a bit of furniture moving and shifting of rooms but you can keep everyone warm and happy even in the coldest weather. 

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