According to a Forbes survey, 66% of US households own a pet–that is 86.9 million homes. No wonder the demand for home improvement to include purpose-built, pet-friendly features is skyrocketing.
So, if you are looking to renovate your home for a furry family member, you can’t miss these seven practical and stylish solutions.
Built-in Pet Bed
Your pets need a designated sleeping area. While crates are a popular solution, a pet bed integrated into the cupboard, shelves, or other built-in components will give your cuddly companion the perfect hideout.
With a vast selection of design and size options, you can customize the best fit for your house’s style, whether contemporary or conventional. Plus, the built-in bed will free your home of cumbersome pet beds.
Remodel with Pet-Friendly Flooring
Pets can take a toll on your floor, leaving pet hair, scratches, and accidental messes. Here, installing pet-friendly flooring can be a game changer.
If you have a pup, opt for floors that are easy to clean and slip-resistant. For adult dogs, tiles, hardwood, and concrete floors will not wear and tear from your pet’s claws. Depending on the climate, you may also install floor heating.
Dog Kennel
Adding a dog kennel can be the perfect restroom for your furry pets if you have ample outdoor space.
A well-designed dog kennel will give your dogs a safe and comfortable place away from potential household hazards. You can also use the kennel to house train and behavior-control your canine friends.
Plus, your pet will appreciate having its sanctuary where it can retreat and relax, especially if you have a busy household.
The structure is a non-negotiable element if you want to start your own business grooming pups. So, if that’s your plan, include dog kennels for grooming in your home improvement project.
Bathing Station
Luring your pets into laundry tubs and bathtubs is tiresome, not to mention the mess they leave behind afterward. So, why not install a bathing station?
A pet bathing station usually resembles shower cubicles, only half the height. You can also choose a counter-height sunken tiled tub for cats, smaller breeds of dogs, and other tiny pets.
For larger breeds, consider an open concept with no door. Add a handheld shower to precisely wash their muddy paws and install large drains to prevent clogging from pet hair.
Stylish Gates
We usually let our pets access all parts of the house. But sometimes, you have to keep them from specific areas–either for their safety or for other people.
However, the most popular solution here–baby gates–can be too short (and unappealing). A more stylish solution is a sliding half door with a metal railing resistant to biting and scratching.
You can easily build them between the wall and kitchen peninsula, rooms, or on top of the staircase.
Another solution is a bright pet door, specifically in the entryway. Most smart solutions use a key attached to your pet’s collar, notifying the door the pet wishes to go through. Thus, the door will ensure your pet is the only one with access to the home–increasing overall safety.
Landscaping with Your Pet in Mind
Pets love going outside to roll in the grass and bask in the sun. Ensure they are having the best time doing that with practical, pet-friendly landscaping.
Carve pathways and play spaces for your active companions with pet-friendly materials. Create comfortable personal spaces with access to water, protection from the sun, and designated places for toileting.
Integrate features like splash fountains, small ponds, and designer sheds to add charm.
Avoid toxic, thorny, and spiny plants at all costs. For example, stay away from Maine garden stalwarts like iris, clematis, yarrow, foxgloves, hydrangeas, and tulips. Research before planting to ensure your pet is not allergic to the species.
Smart Technology
Tech integration is a blessing for pet owners. It allows you to automate various tasks, like smart security cameras, to give you peace of mind when you’re away from home.
Here are some more smart solutions you can add to your home improvement projects:
- Automatic feeder
- Smart fountain
- Self-cleaning litter box
- Robot vacuum
Integrating these will make your pet’s life easier while cutting your work in half–the time you can spend playing and nurturing your furry friends.
Start Your Pet-friendly Home Improvement Project
Owning a pet is one of the most joyous feelings, and planning their safety, comfort, and entertainment within your home is part of being a pet parent. So, integrate the above excellent solution into your home and make this feeling even more exhilarating.
For more expert advice on transforming your home into a haven for both you and your pets, check out all our articles on Dr. Homey. Discover a wealth of tips and ideas to make your living space more comfortable, stylish, and functional.
About The Author
