Bringing a new pet into your home isn’t just a big change for you — it’s a big change for them too!
Many pet owners let their animals have free reign in their homes. This may seem tempting and convenient, but designating specific pet-friendly areas in your house for your four-legged friends helps ensure their comfort while still allowing your own style and aesthetic to shine through.
We’ve compiled a list of pet-friendly home improvement and design ideas to help you make this transition as easy as possible and allow you to live in a space that you — and your pet — both love!
When it comes to making your home pet-friendly, first things first: You have to pet-proof your entire space.
Your home contains everyday items that can be hazardous to dogs and cats. Here’s a list of the most common ones to watch out for:
You’ll also want to keep in mind physical objects that can cause harm in other ways. Pets are naturally very curious and love to chew and bite anything they can get their paws on. Keep them away from things like:
We all know it: Pet hair can be a real nuisance.
By implementing a regular grooming routine for your pet, you’ll ensure their long-term health and make your home more pleasant to live in. Additionally, keeping your home free of pet dander and other allergens can significantly reduce symptoms for those with pet allergies.
Here are some things to consider when pet-proofing your home for cleanliness:
Unless you have a hypoallergenic pet, most dogs and cats shed excessively. This means your couches, blankets, carpets, and rugs can be covered with pet dander and oils.
Maintaining a weekly vacuuming or sweeping schedule will help you avoid a buildup of pet hair, keeping your home clean, less prone to odors, and much more pleasant for visitors and guests who may not be accustomed to pet hair.
Whether you opt for professional grooming services or prefer to do it yourself, regularly bathing and grooming your pet works wonders for their health, their self-esteem, and the cleanliness of your home.
If your pet suddenly exhibits odd behavior, such as chewing on furniture, relieving themselves indoors, or shedding excessively, these changes often signal deeper health issues.
For example, shedding more than normal may be caused by a rash or skin condition. Chewing on furniture or having accidents inside could be a sign of anxiety in your pet.
Regular checkups with your veterinarian are crucial preventative measures to ensure your pet's well-being — and protect your home.
As a pet owner, maintaining a clean and inviting space is essential for both you and your guests. These tips and ideas will help you keep your home tidy and prevent extra work in the future.
Carpets tend to trap pet hair, dirt, and odors, making maintenance more challenging.
Instead, if possible, opt for spaces with hard floor surfaces like wood, tile, or laminate. These materials are easier to clean, more durable, and resistant to scratches and stains from pets.
If your space doesn’t already include hard flooring and you plan to renovate in the future, consider upgrading to these pet-friendly options. Not only will they beautify your home, but they’ll also make it easier to maintain a clean and hygienic environment for both you and your pets.
If you allow your dog or cat on the furniture, this requires consistent monitoring of fabric cleanliness. Opting for easily washable fabrics in your sleeping and lounging areas will help you maintain a cleaner space and prevent the need to constantly replace bedding and blankets.
Love velvet? Forget about it if you have a pet! This fabric is a magnet for pet hair and odor. You’ll have to clean your trendy velvet couch twice as often as other, more pet-friendly options.
Pet-safe furniture choices featuring materials like distressed leather and high-performance upholstery work best for homes with pets, as they’re easier to clean and more durable than other fabrics.
Another way to make your furniture more pet-friendly is to choose couches, chairs, rugs, and other items that match your pet's hair color.
For example, if you have a golden retriever, selecting lighter-colored upholstery can help your home look cleaner, even if you haven't had time to vacuum during a busy week.
Tip: Have a white cat? Steer clear of dark furniture! The cleaning will be endless.
Pets love to play, and it's important to give them a designated space where they can freely jump, roll around, and enjoy themselves.
This benefits them mentally, as they feel safe to play without being scolded. It also gives you peace of mind, knowing that your important household items and furniture are protected from potential damage.
Even a small space will suffice. Consider a designated playroom, a garage area, or a secured outdoor space where your pets can play freely and safely.
We all have sources of stress in our daily lives; your pet shouldn’t be one of them.
Incorporating pet-friendly renovations and alterations into your home allows you to maintain your overall style and aesthetic while providing your pet with designated areas for play and relaxation. This approach reduces the need for excessive cleaning or replacing household items due to unnecessary damage.
Using the above tips can make a big impact on pet happiness and well-being. If you need more guidance or want to schedule a wellness check, reach out to our office and a team member will be happy to assist you