There is nothing more satisfying than coming home to a happy pet greeting you at the door. Unfortunately, too many people neglect to include the safety of a pet when they are buying or building a new home. There are many simple ideas for how to make your home more pet friendly and, if you are building or buying a new home, consider some of these when planning.
Choose the Right Flooring
You want flooring that is attractive, durable and easy to maintain, but you also need to choose flooring that is safe for your pet. Carpet, although attractive, can be difficult to keep clean with pets as they track dirt and mud in when they have been outdoors. It is also important to remember that pets have accidents no matter how well they are trained.
One option is painted concrete that can provide the look of brick or terrazzo for a unique look. Bamboo is another excellent flooring option for pets as it is durable, stands up to traffic and is environmentally-friendly. Stone and ceramic tile don’t scratch and are easy to clean after an accident. However, stone may be cold and hard for pets to sit on. New luxury vinyl styles are a very good choice as they are durable, easy to clean and softer than stone or tile.
Avoid hardwood which can stain and scratch easily. Laminate is also not a good choice as it can be difficult for pets to walk on.
Furniture Coverings
Even if your pets are not permitted on the furniture, fur that is shed can still land on cushions. If you have a puppy or a kitten, they may be tempted to chew or scratch on furniture material.
Choosing the right fabrics is one way to make your home more pet friendly. Crypton coverings are almost indestructible. It resists stains, smell and bacteria making it an excellent choice if you have children as well. Leather may not seem like the most pet friendly option, but it is easy to clean and durable. Ultrasuede is machine-washable and feels almost like real suede, but is resistant to stains and discoloration. One tip is to match your furniture colors to your pets fur so any shedding is less noticeable.
A Space of Their Own
If possible, create spaces that are specifically for your pet, such as a climbing house for your cat or a soft bed and blanket for your dog. Keep their toys and treats in that area so they connect that one section of the house as their own. Make sure to provide your pet with an outdoor area that is safe for them as well as a well-exercised pet is less likely to cause trouble inside.
Other ways to make your home more pet friendly is to remove all hazards. Check for choking, electrocution or hanging hazards. Keep cords for blinds and curtains short and unplug electric cords that your animal could trip over or chew. Only purchase plants that are pet-safe and safety lock any cabinets that contain pesticides or other chemicals. Keep the toilet lid down to prevent poisoning from cleaning products and make sure all screens are sturdy enough to keep your animals inside. These simple tips can help keep your pets safe and protected.
