For most pet owners, our furry friends are more than just animals, they are another member of the family who deserves the same amount of comfort and well-being as anyone else who lives there. Creating a pet-friendly space can do just that!
Pets play an integral role in our lives, providing companionship, love, and support. Making your space pet-friendly allows them to thrive in an environment where they feel secure and loved, therefore promoting a healthy and happy relationship together.
Fortunately, it is possible to have both a beautiful space and a pet in the home. The key? Choosing the right materials and accomodating your animals' needs. Here are five accommodations you can make to create a pet-friendly space:
1. Clean regularly
Even if you've mastered the art of matching your fabrics to your pets' hair, it is important to vacuum your space and furniture at least twice a week - even more often when they are shedding excessively. Pet hair has an odor that contains an oil that will attract dirt to the fabric on which it sits. The best way to curb this is to invest in a high-quality vacuum, and you will wonder how you ever lived without one.
When tackling the cleaning to-do list, it’s important to not overlook what is in the products you use. Considering dogs and cats spend their days roaming the house and grooming themselves with their tongues, avoid using chemical cleaners that would be harmful if ingested.
Cleaning regularly applies to your pet as well. A cleaner pet equals a cleaner space. Our pet-friendly suites come complete with an in-house grooming facility. Trimmed nails won't scratch floors or upholstery. Regularly brushing and bathing removes loose hair before it ends up on your floor, bed, and clothing. And best of all a clean pet minimizes the work for you when it comes to cleaning your space.
2. Give them their own space
Living in a pet-friendly environment allows pets to maintain their familiar routines and surroundings, resulting in better emotional well-being. Like anyone else in your household, your pet deserves a place to retreat when they need space. Creating a personalized area for your pet will show them that you care and want them to have peace of mind. This also helps reduce your pet's anxiety, allowing them a safe haven where they can relax when feeling overwhelmed by household activities.
3. Consider what houseplants you have accessible to them
House plants can help turn a house into a home but beware of toxic plants if you share that home with furry friends. The Spruce recommends avoiding the following popular houseplants if you own a dog or a cat:
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum)
Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia amoena)
Cutleaf Philodendron (Monstera Deliciosa)
Jade Plants (Crassula)
Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata)
Tulip (Tulipa spp.)
Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)
4. Keep them busy
For many pet parents extended and prolonged time at home may be making it difficult for your furry friend to stay engaged and busy, and boredom can lead to destructive and undesirable behavior patterns for some pets. The key to preventing destructive behaviours is changing up your pet's toys. A rubber toy like the Kong is a great alternative to the sofa leg. A scratching post and climbing tree combo may be more appealing to your cat than the carpet. Toys that engage and mentally stimulate your pet are key to preventing them from destroying your home. We all know that tennis balls, squeaky toys, and half-chewed dog bones don’t do much to elevate the overall look of your living room. Use a large basket or vintage crate to stash your pet’s favorites and keep your space looking orderly.
Giving your pet opportunities for physical exercise is beneficial to both you and them! Exercise is another great way to curb boredom and destructive behvaiours, and it also helps alleviate stress and anxiety in your pet. This can be as simple as playing fetch in a larger space in your home or taking them for a walk or jog in the community.
5. Be mindful of fabrics
Dogs and cats are attracted to soft, cozy places, which is why they are often drawn to your bed or couch. Although it’s adorable to see them curled up on your favorite chair, they may leave a mess behind. Investing in quality fabrics that can withstand fur, claws, drool, and more is a great way to make your space pet-friendly. Some pet-friendly fabrics include:
Microfiber - Fabrics such as microsuede or micro-velvet are made from synthetic material that is both durable and easy to clean. It will be easy to clean fur off, and it is also stain-resistant.
Leather/ Vinyl - Fur does not stick to this material. In addition, it is very easy to clean with mild soap and water.
Crypton - The super fabric, will withstand a pet better than any other material. This material is stain and bacteria-resistant.
Other tips include choosing fabrics with large patterns that will naturally hide marks or stains, or a fabric that is a similar colour to your pet's hair.
We love our pets as a family member; keeping a clean and safe home for your furry friends is important for their health and well-being, as well as your own. Taking care of your furry friends is an important responsibility that requires effort and attention. With these tips, you can ensure that your pets are safe, healthy, and happy in your home.