National Pet Day is April 11th, and as both real estate agents and animal lovers, we understand why so many of our client’s are keeping their much loved pets in mind when purchasing, designing, and decorating their homes. Creating a designated area for your pet that meets their needs and gives them the comfort they deserve, without interrupting your home’s aesthetic, may seem like a daunting task, but it is possible.Below, we offer some suggestions on how to design pet friendly spaces that are perfect for your furriest family members with the main goal of providing them, and you, an opportunity to happily coexist while allowing them to thrive.
Looking for a new best friend? In addition to celebrating our love for the pets we have, National Pet Day is also about promoting and encouraging pet adoption! Check out Adopt a Pet to get started on finding local animals and rescues available in your area.
Make Space
You may find yourself considering what area in your home would be the best space for your pet. If you’re able to provide them with an entire room of their own this decision may be an easy one. Otherwise, take note of your pet’s personality when making your decision. Do they constantly crave interaction? Carving out a space near areas their family spends much of their time may be your best bet. Need their alone time? You may want to opt for a more quiet, calming area of your home where they can unwind alone – such as a den, back room, or even underneath the stairs. Once you can decide, you can start to focus on the details.
Find the Perfect Bed or Crate
Your lucky furry friend may be allowed to relax on your furniture but, to prevent them from becoming a full-time couch hog, a pet bed in their designated space is a great option and will provide them a cozy spot they can call their own. Pet beds and crates come in all sizes and styles, and can easily blend in with your existing decor. If you’re a master DIY-er or able to purchase items made with pet owners in mind, there are also functional crates out there that double as furniture.
To give you an idea of what options are out there, start browsing stores such as Paw.com, Chewy, Wayfair, and even Pottery Barn.
Create Creative Storage
Leashes, collars, toys, treats, food, catnip, oh my! Our furry little – and big – friends come with a heap of needs. When creating space for your pet you may find yourself wondering what to do with all their…stuff. Luckily, there are so many affordable storage options out there that you can answer this question without having to sacrifice on style. Combine items such as cubbies, wicker or wire baskets, and shelving to create a clean and organized space to hold all the items your pet holds dear.
Keep Their Needs in Mind
Just like people, dogs and cats have their own individual personalities and needs. Once you have all the basics covered, make sure to incorporate toys and other items that will give them the type of stimulation they love most. Whether you have a kitty who loves a good scratching post (check out Etsy for fun and stylish options!) or an anxious dog that enjoys a snuggle with a stuffy, keeping these things easily accessible to them will help keep them happy – and prevent them from taking their anxiety or boredom out on your furniture.
Found our tips for creating a pet friendly spaces in your home helpful? Then check out our other home decor tips over on the blog.