Our pets are like part of the family, sometimes even being critical to the state of our mental health as therapy animals, and we want them to be as happy and as safe as possible in our homes. Making your home pet-friendly is a little like baby-proofing, except that babies can’t fly, jump on the counters, or destroy a good pair of shoes like our furry (and feathery) friends can. A few organizational considerations can help ensure that you and your pet enjoy each other as much as possible.
Take Care with Chemical Storage
One of the biggest household hazards for pets are the chemicals we use around our home. Almost all chemicals used for cleaning and home maintenance can be harmful to pets, and they’re everywhere. The kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, and garage all likely contain chemicals that your pet may find interesting when you’re not around. Storing chemicals in overhead cabinets, versus under the sink will keep them out of reach. Put your pets outside or in another portion of the house when using chemicals to offer further protection. As an added precaution, be aware of where the nearest animal hospital in your area is so that you can be ready to take your pet their in case of accidental ingestion of chemicals.
Organize Pet Cleaning Supplies
Your home will look and smell better if your pet gets a regular cleaning. Pet cleaning supplies can be kept all together in an easily accessible bin or basket and tucked away into a cupboard or on a shelf until you’re ready to use them. Then, when bath time rolls around, you’ll be able to pull out everything you need at once, and put it all away quickly when the job is done.
Give Them an Accessible Sleeping Space
Just like people do, pets need a spot where they can go to relax, sleep, and take a little break from family life. Rather than having your pet’s bed laying in the middle of the family room where they’ll be constantly disturbed, their bed can be placed in a quieter area of the house, like a bedroom. For younger pets, especially dogs, a crate that can be closed while you’re away will keep your pet from getting into mischief when home alone. This also makes your pet feel as if they have their own space that they can get away from distractions and freely rest.
Keep Treasured Personal Items Out of Reach
Pets are notorious for chewing on important personal items with reckless disregard. Keeping your pet fully stocked with their favorite kinds of toys will help to curb this habit, but so will keep your belongings out of their path. Keeping your home decluttered and moving things up off of the floor will take your belongings out of the line of vision of your pet. For instance, hanging jackets, keys, and purses on hooks by the door when you get home will keep them from being dumped on the floor.
Give Them an Eating Space That Can Get Messy
Feeding your pet is potentially the messiest chore in the house, especially if they tend to eat with gusto. Placing a large mat under your birdcage or pet food dishes will make it easier to clean up the floor after they’re finished. Placing their food dishes in an out-of-the-way spot, say the laundry room instead of the kitchen, will keep any messes that do occur out of the public eye until you can get to them. This also gives your pet a place that they know they can consistently eat at, which helps them feel as if there is their own space in the house.
Taking just these few precautions can help keep your house clean, organized, and pet-friendly. While it takes a bit of organization, pet-proofing your house can help you and your pet enjoys each other’s company to the fullest.
