Five steps toward coexisting with your dog

August 2024

(Photo courtesy Pexels)

story courtesy of Family Features

As much as you love your pets and work hard to make them part of the family, they’re also a big responsibility. Part of that responsibility includes setting up your home so it’s equal parts stylish for you, and functional for your pets.

Show furry friends a little love beyond the walks and snuggles by making your home more pet-friendly with these five steps:

SET UP THEIR SPACE NEAR AN ENTRY

It’s common for pet owners to desire a space to keep all their furry friends’ belongings and avoid clutter. Ensure convenience and cleanliness by establishing an area near the door where you can store leashes, collars, toys and more. Consider keeping a towel or two nearby for wiping paws (and snouts) after going outside. You can also keep your pets’ beds, food and water bowls in this space so it feels like their own little “home” when returning from a walk or going to sleep at night.

CONSIDER STAIN-RESISTANT FABRICS

From furniture to decor, avoiding fabrics that attract pet hair is a no-brainer for pet owners looking to escape a constant mess. Silk and velvet are virtual magnets for fur, while alternatives like leather offer more practical choices that are easy to clean and durable.

INSTALL RESILIENT FLOORING

Reduce your fear of zoomies causing damage to your floors by installing resilient flooring focused on reducing wear. With options designed to bridge the gap between style and function, numerous water-resistant and waterproof floors give you and your pets room to live your best lives for years to come without wet shakes triggering worries. Plus, many resilient floors don’t flinch when it comes to addressing muddy paws, often only requiring the mud to be easily wiped away, without harsh cleaning products.

DECORATE WITH PETS IN MIND

Displaying fine china and your favorite sports memorabilia may not go hand-in-hand with pet ownership — that autographed baseball may look more like a chew toy than a treasured artifact. Instead, prioritize decor that’s washable and sturdy so you can avoid coming home to a delicate family heirloom shattered on the floor.

PET-PROOF THE YARD

If you plan on your pets being outside on their own, it’s a good idea to carefully inspect your outdoor spaces before letting them roam. Look for gaps in the fence, identify potentially harmful plants, and ensure outdoor structures like grills and furniture are secure.