For many homeowners, pets are more than companions—they’re family. But when it comes to setting up a home security system, pet owners face a unique set of challenges. Our playful counterparts moving about might not seem like a big deal, until your alarm system mistakes them for intruders. That’s why it’s essential to account for these scenarios when considering a home security system.

Why Pets Pose a Challenge for Home Security

Some security systems aren’t built with pets in mind. Dogs roaming the yard at night or cats leaping onto furniture can easily trip motion sensors. It’s an issue that’s more common than you might think. A survey conducted by Which? found that over a fifth of home false alarms were triggered by pets.

Without the right configuration, your pet’s natural behavior could unintentionally trigger alarms. This not only causes unnecessary panic but may also result in avoidable consequences. 

The Impact of False Alarms 

False alarms may seem harmless, but they can carry real consequences:

• Unneeded stress on you, your family, and your pets.
• Disrupted routines from frequent alerts that require your attention or response.
• Reduced trust in your system, which may lead to ignoring alerts when they truly matter.

It’s important to remember that false alarms don’t just affect your home. They can also tie up valuable emergency response resources if an automated alert triggers a dispatch.

Tips to Make Your Security System More Pet Friendly

Even with the right technology, small adjustments around the house can go a long way in reducing false alarms. Here are some simple steps to consider:

• Mount motion sensors higher on the wall, angling them to avoid areas your pets frequent.
• Block access to monitored zones when you’re away—baby gates or closed doors can limit where pets roam.
• Schedule routine check-ins to ensure your system is functioning properly and that no new behavior (like climbing furniture) is causing issues.

Choosing the Right Features for a Pet Friendly Alarm System

Not all alarm systems are created equal, especially when it comes to accommodating pets. When selecting a pet friendly alarm system, consider these key features:

• Adjustable motion sensitivity: Look for motion sensors with weight thresholds, so your pet can move freely without setting off the alarm.
• Indoor security cameras: These help you monitor your pets remotely and verify alarms before acting.
• Smart home integration: Connect your security system with other devices like feeders, temperature sensors, or smart lighting for an extra layer of comfort and convenience.
• Glass break detectors: Unlike motion sensors, these detect the unique sound of breaking glass and won’t be triggered by movement.

Investing in the right components means your home security system will be both secure and forgiving of your pet’s daily routines.

Ready to upgrade to a pet friendly alarm system? Contact Vector Security today to learn how we can help you secure your home, without stressing out you or your pets.