That’s a great question, and I’m glad you asked because pet safety is something we take very seriously. The short answer is: no, we do not use any chemicals that are known to be harmful to pets. Our outdoor benches are treated with a water-based, non-toxic sealant that is specifically designed to be safe for animals, children, and the environment. We’ve chosen this treatment because it provides excellent protection against weather, UV rays, and moisture without relying on harsh solvents like pentachlorophenol, creosote, or heavy-metal-based preservatives that can be dangerous if licked or chewed on.
To give you a bit more detail: the finishing process involves a plant-based oil and wax blend that is completely free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and harmful irritants. This means even if your curious dog decides to give the bench a little lick or your cat likes to nap on it daily, there’s no risk of toxicity or skin irritation. However, I always recommend allowing the bench to cure fully for about 24 to 48 hours after unboxing, just to let any minor residual odor dissipate completely—though even this is mild and non-toxic.
I’ve personally used these benches in my own backyard with two dogs and a cat, and I’ve never had any issues. That said, if your pet has extremely sensitive skin or a known allergy to wood itself (which is rare), you might want to place a pet-friendly cushion or blanket on top for extra comfort. Also, for long-term maintenance, I advise using the same non-toxic sealant we offer for touch-ups, rather than any chemical-based wood stains.
We also provide a full material safety data sheet (MSDS) on request, and our customer service team can walk you through the exact ingredients if you want that extra peace of mind. Ultimately, our goal is to create furniture that you and your furry family members can enjoy together, without any worry. If you have further questions about specific pet behaviors or bench placement, I’m happy to help with that too.