Remodeling for a Pet-Friendly Home

One thing we can all be sure of is that we love our pets. Keeping your animal friends safe and healthy is among the top considerations when updating and remodeling your home. Here are some things to consider:

Flooring

Some pets can wreak havoc on flooring that may be susceptible to damage. Modern laminate or vinyl flooring and traditional choices such as tile will stand up to moisture damage and can resist scratches better than hardwoods.

In areas where accidents may occur, consider washable rugs which will make it easy to keep clean as well as inexpensive to replace.

Built-in Pet Spaces

Create areas of interest for your pet to perch upon while looking out a window, such as a window seat, built-in beds or sturdy padded shelving. Be sure to include toys and other incentives for them to enjoy their special area. You can utilize areas which would otherwise be unusable such as the space under a stairwell for instance.

Pet-Friendly Furniture

Accidents will happen where pets are concerned. Your furniture should be chosen with pets in mind. There are pet-friendly fabrics such as microfiber that resist scratching and are easy to clean. Where possible, make good use of removable and washable covers made from these durable fabrics.

Clean Place

Consider adding a “pet wash station” with a handheld shower and a non-slip surface if space allows. You can use a basement utility sink for a worry-free wash station and its surrounding area can serve as storage for pet grooming supplies. A laundry room can also be an option and may be a safer area for you newly cleaned pet to explore while drying off.

Pet-Friendly Kitchen

Remodeling with pet needs in mind shouldn’t stop at the kitchen. Having a designated area for food storage is a good start, as is a place for food and water bowls. Your pet’s feeding station doesn’t have to be in the kitchen itself, but it’s practical to have it near the food storage area. Wherever your pet’s feeding station is located, it should be on a surface that’s water resistant and easy to keep clean.

Outdoor/Backyard

If you’re renovating your outdoor areas, keep your pet in mind. It’s best to have a fenced enclosure for some animals, which keeps them safe from wandering and keeps other animals away at the same time. Include areas of shade where they can rest and relax, and accessible water bowls to provide hydration.

Hide That Litter Box

Not many people enjoy seeing a litterbox out in the open, but it’s a necessity to have one with some pets, especially cats. But you can conceal your litter box in a clever way to maintain a tidy appearance in your home.

Furniture such as cabinets, accessible to your pet, can make a great place to hide a litter box. Make sure to choose one with a separate compartment to keep the box segregated from other items which may be stored there.

Clean to the Finish

When considering finish options in your remodel, they shouldn’t be limited to just floors. Painted surfaces should be washable and durable to stand up to wiping and moisture. Flat paint finishes can be hard to clean and will show more staining and wear over the years. Semi-gloss or gloss finishes are much more forgiving. These finishes can be used for walls, woodwork, trim and window seats and shelves.

Let’s Keep it Safe

With pet safety in mind, it’s safe to say (pun intended) that your pet should be kept clear of hazardous materials and chemicals. Cleaning supplies should be kept secured in a cabinet or closet area where pets cannot access. When cleaning up pet messes, opt for biodegradable cleaners which are pet safe. Other factors, such as electrical wiring can come in to play too, so be sure wiring and electrical equipment are kept secure and away from curious pets.

Storage for Pet Supplies

A pet “station” can be indispensable for keeping your home tidy. Leashes, toys and other pet-related items can quickly clutter up your living space, so keeping them housed in a designated area is a great idea.

Climate Control

While we can’t control the weather, we can control the temperature within our home. Follow recommendations for proper temperatures for your pets, especially during seasons where they will spend more time indoors, or for pets that never leave the house.

Access to Water

It’s worth mentioning that in larger households, or those with aging pets, it’s best to have more than one place where your pet has access to clean water. The same factors that come in to play for your pet’s primary feeding area would also apply here.

Remember, the key is to strike a balance between creating a pet-friendly environment and maintaining the overall aesthetics and functionality of your home. By incorporating these ideas, you can create a space that both you and your pets can enjoy.

Contact us today for a free design consultation to discuss your per-friendly home remodeling needs.