Keeping Your Hearing Aids Safe: A Guide for Pet Owners
Pets bring joy, companionship and plenty of love to our lives. But if you
By: admin | December 23, 2024
Pets bring joy, companionship and plenty of love to our lives. But if you wear hearing aids, you might have noticed that your furry family members are oddly interested in these small devices. Dogs and cats are naturally curious about hearing aids – they might see them as toys or be drawn to the scents they pick up from daily wear.
Unfortunately, this curiosity can put your hearing aids at risk. Many pet owners have experienced the distress of finding their hearing aids chewed up or batted under furniture. Beyond the worry of damaging or losing an important device, this situation can leave you without access to clear hearing until you get a replacement.
Your hearing aids help you enjoy life’s moments, including the happy barks, meows and purrs of your pets. Managing life with both hearing aids and pets comes down to creating routines that work for everyone in your household, including your four-legged family members.
Pets, particularly dogs and cats, are naturally curious creatures and often show interest in hearing aids because of their unfamiliar appearance and the way they interact with the wearer. The sounds these devices make, like the slight buzzing or the noises caused by feedback, may intrigue pets, especially if they haven’t encountered something like this before. Pets may be drawn to the scent, shape or movement of the hearing aids, and because they often like to explore their environment through touch and smell, they may investigate the device more closely, sometimes by trying to nudge, lick or even chew on it.
Additionally, hearing aids tend to be small and portable, which can make them even more appealing to pets who are used to investigating objects around the house. The fact that hearing aids are worn close to the ear also means that the pet may associate them with the person’s attention, and this could encourage them to approach or engage with the devices in a playful or curious manner. For some pets, the act of their owners wearing hearing aids may make them more protective or attentive, which can also lead to increased interest in the device. To prevent damage, it’s important to store hearing aids securely and to keep pets from accessing them when they’re not in use.
It’s incredibly important to consider your pet’s safety if they get a hold of your hearing aids. Small parts like batteries or tiny components can pose a choking hazard if swallowed. Even if the hearing aids themselves are not easily chewed through, the risk of your pet ingesting something harmful is a concern. If a battery or any small part is swallowed, it could lead to serious health issues. It’s always best to keep your hearing aids securely out of your pet’s reach, and if an accident does happen, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian right away to ensure your pet receives prompt care.
Once you have ensured your pet’s safety, you can now inspect your devices. Pets may chew on or bat at your hearing aids out of curiosity, which could cause damage to the delicate components. While hearing aids are designed to be sturdy, they are not built to withstand the force of chewing or rough handling, and small parts like batteries or wires could become dislodged or broken. This may result in reduced functionality, or your hearing aids may need repairs or replacement.
Additionally, pets’ saliva can be harmful to electronic devices, potentially causing corrosion or internal damage. Even if the hearing aids appear undamaged on the surface, moisture from saliva can seep into the internal parts, affecting their performance. It’s also possible that the hearing aids could be lost or misplaced if your pet carries them off to a hidden spot. To protect your hearing aids, always store them in a safe place, like a protective case or a drawer, when they’re not in use.
When selecting a storage case for your hearing aids as a pet owner, safety and durability should be your top priorities. Pets, especially cats and dogs, are naturally curious and drawn to small, unfamiliar objects. Hearing aids can attract pets due to their unique sounds, smells or textures, making them an easy target for chewing or play. Choosing a hard-shell protective case is essential to prevent damage if your pet happens to knock it over or attempt to grab it. Cases made from sturdy materials, like reinforced plastic or metal, are particularly beneficial for pet-proofing your devices, as they are less likely to break or open easily.
In addition to durability, look for a case with a secure locking mechanism. A snap-shut or zippered case ensures that your hearing aids stay protected, even if a pet manages to get its paws on it. Cases with built-in compartments for batteries or cleaning tools can help you keep everything organized and safe from curious pets. Opting for a case with a moisture-absorbing or dehumidifying feature is also a smart choice, as it can protect your devices from humidity while doubling as a safe storage option.
Once you have a protective case for your hearing aids, the next step is finding the safest place to store them, especially if you have curious pets. Choose a dedicated, secure location in your home where your pets cannot reach. A closed drawer, high shelf or locked cabinet are great options to ensure your devices remain safe. Avoid leaving them on nightstands, countertops or anywhere within your pet’s line of sight, as pets are often drawn to small, interesting objects.
Make it a habit to place your hearing aids in the same secure spot when not in use. If you store them in a drawer or cabinet, ensure it closes fully to keep curious pets out. For extra protection, choose a cool, dry location like a bedroom or office, and avoid areas exposed to heat, moisture, or direct sunlight, like bathrooms or kitchens.
When traveling or staying overnight, keep your hearing aids in their case and place it securely in a zipped bag or elevated area like a closet shelf. This not only protects your devices from pets but also ensures they don’t accidentally get misplaced. Taking a little extra care in storing your hearing aids can help them stay safe and functional while keeping your pets out of harm’s way.
If your pet gets a hold of your hearing aids, contact your hearing health professional as soon as possible. They can assess the extent of the damage and determine whether the hearing aids need minor repairs, replacement parts or more extensive servicing. For minor issues, they may be able to fix the devices on the spot. However, if there’s significant damage – like internal components being affected – they may need to send the hearing aids to the manufacturer for specialized repairs. Trying to fix the devices yourself could make the problem worse, so it’s best to leave repairs to the professionals who have the tools and expertise to restore your hearing aids safely and effectively.
In the meantime, avoid using damaged hearing aids, as they may not function properly and could cause discomfort. If repairs take time, ask your hearing care provider about loaner devices so you can stay connected while yours are being fixed. Going forward, be sure to store your hearing aids in a secure, pet-proof location to avoid repeat incidents. Taking swift action ensures your hearing aids are repaired properly, so you can continue to enjoy clear, reliable hearing.
Training your pet to stay away from your hearing aids can help prevent accidents and keep both your devices and your furry friend safe. Start by establishing clear boundaries. Use basic commands like “leave it” or “no” when you notice your pet showing interest in your hearing aids, their case or where you store them. Consistency is key—reward good behavior with treats or praise whenever they follow the command and ignore the devices. Over time, they’ll learn that your hearing aids are off-limits.
You can also discourage curiosity by reducing temptation. Avoid leaving your hearing aids or case in places your pet can easily access, like low tables, counters or the floor. If your pet has already shown an interest in small objects, redirect their attention with appropriate toys or treats. Offering a safe, stimulating alternative can keep their focus off your hearing aids.
For pets who are particularly curious, consider using deterrent sprays or tools that reinforce boundaries safely. If you’re still struggling, working with a trainer can provide guidance to curb this behavior effectively. With patience and persistence, your pet can learn to steer clear of your hearing aids, keeping your devices intact and your furry companion safe from harm.
Keeping your hearing aids safe from your pets is a key step in ensuring the safety of our cherished four-legged friends. This requires understanding your pet’s innate curiosity, recognizing the potential dangers and adopting practical strategies like secure storage and regular maintenance of your hearing aids.
If you ever need advice or help related to maintaining the safety and functionality of your hearing aids around pets or otherwise, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. At Park Place Hearing Center, our team is always ready to provide expert advice tailored to your specific needs. Give us a call at one of our convenient California locations in Petaluma: (707) 283-7853 or San Rafael: (415) 524-7235 to schedule an appointment today.
Tags: hearing aid repair, hearing aid services, how-to guides
Pets bring joy, companionship and plenty of love to our lives. But if you
By: admin | December 23, 2024
Weather conditions can have a surprising impact on your hearing aids,
By: admin | September 25, 2024
Choosing a hearing specialist is a key step in addressing hearing loss.
By: admin | April 30, 2024