Keeping dogs in garage

Question
Hi Patti,

We have two wheaten terriers (30 months and 15 months)whom we enjoy very much and provide lots of exercise (a 1-hr walk every morning and evening).  They are able to get up to a lot of mischief though, so when we cannot keep an eye on them and to sleep (other than in very cold weather)we put them in a blocked-off area in the garage with a crate, cushion and water.  Another dog-lover in the park asked whether we were concerned that the garage was not well enough ventilated. It never occurred to us. It is an enclosed, attached garage that is at a semi-basement level.  What do you think?

Thanks,
Glen

Answer
Hi Glen,

It's true, dogs are far more sensitive to carbon monoxide poisoning than humans. In fact, many cases of 'carsickness' in dogs are actually minor spells of carbon monoxide poisoning.
You didn't say if your car is running, or being started while the dogs are in the garage.  Of course, this should be avoided, since your dogs will have no choice but to inhale the fumes.

I can't say if your garage has enough ventilation,  I haven't actually seen it. Does your garage have any windows? You could leave one open. There are also garage exhaust fans, and through the wall ventilation kits you could install to ensure the garage isn't having a build up of harmful fumes and carbon monoxide.

Since your dogs are crate trained, why not just crate them inside your home over night? That will completely remove the possibility of poisoning, and you'll know it's always the right temperature for them.

Best of luck,
Patti