Ocala, Florida, is home to scenic trails, spacious yards and a strong pet-loving community, with many households including four-legged family members. If you’re one of the 28.8 million Americans who could benefit from hearing aids and are also a pet owner, you might be wondering how to keep your devices safe from curious paws and playful jaws.
It turns out that the question of “pet-friendly hearing aids” is becoming more common among Ocala residents, especially as more people seek to balance hearing health with an active, pet-inclusive lifestyle.
Why Pets and Hearing Aids Don’t Always Mix
Time spent outdoors is common in Ocala. This increased activity can create opportunities for hearing aids to be misplaced, knocked loose or even chewed on by pets.
Hearing aids can be tempting for dogs and cats due to:
- Their small size and easy portability
- The subtle, high-pitched sounds they sometimes emit
- The appealing scent of skin oils or earwax
- Their accessibility when left on nightstands or counters
In areas like Ocala, where vet visits and outdoor excursions are part of everyday life, protecting your devices becomes an important part of hearing aid ownership.
How to Make Hearing Aids More Pet-Friendly
While hearing aids can’t be made specifically “pet-proof,” there are steps Ocala residents can take to keep their devices safer in a pet-filled home:
- Store your hearing aids in a secure, elevated case when not in use
- Choose a designated “pet-free” charging or drying station
- Avoid leaving hearing aids on low tables, nightstands or within reach of pets
- Use a hearing aid clip or retention cord to prevent drops during outdoor walks or playtime
- Ask your audiologist about durable models with moisture resistance, especially in humid Florida weather
- Consider pet insurance add-ons or hearing aid insurance that covers accidental pet damage
It’s also wise to include hearing aid safety in your pet training. Teaching commands like “leave it” can go a long way in keeping your hearing aids from becoming a new chew toy.
For pet owners, the balance between hearing care and animal companionship is achievable with the right habits. If you’re new to hearing aids or recently adopted a pet, speak with a local audiologist about options that fit your lifestyle. To learn more, contact Beneficial Hearing Aid Center and schedule an appointment today.