Tips for a Pet-Friendly Home

Pets are beloved members of our families, and we want them to be comfortable and safe in our homes. Here are some tips to share on how to make your home pet-friendly when purchasing a new home or renovating your existing home:
 
 Choose pet-friendly flooring:
Flooring is one of the essential aspects to consider when making your home pet-friendly. Avoid carpeting, as it can trap pet hair, dander, and odors. Instead, consider hard-surface flooring such as tile, hardwood, or laminate, which are easy to clean and maintain. If you must have carpet, choose low-pile carpets that can withstand heavy traffic and are easy to clean.
 
 Secure hazardous materials:
Keep hazardous materials such as cleaning supplies, medications, and poisonous plants out of reach of your pets. Store these items in secure cabinets or high shelves that your pets cannot access. Also, be mindful of open windows or balconies that may pose a danger to your pets, especially if they are prone to jumping or climbing.
 
 Provide pet-friendly furniture:
Your pets need a comfortable space to rest and play, so choose furniture that is pet-friendly. Avoid leather furniture, which can scratch easily and is challenging to repair. Instead, consider furniture made of durable and easy-to-clean fabrics such as microfiber or canvas. Also, provide your pets with comfortable bedding and toys to keep them entertained.
 
 Establish designated pet areas:
Designate specific areas in your home for your pets to eat, sleep, and play. This will help them feel more comfortable and secure, and it will also make it easier for you to manage their messes. Consider adding pet gates to keep your pets in designated areas, or installing pet doors to give them access to the outdoors.
 
 Keep your home clean and odor-free:
Regular cleaning and deodorizing are essential to keep your home pet-friendly. Use pet-friendly cleaning products to clean up pet messes, and vacuum your floors and furniture regularly to remove pet hair and dander. Also, consider using air purifiers or odor eliminators to keep your home smelling fresh and clean.
 
 Remove toxic indoor and outdoor plants:
There are several common indoor plants and outdoor plants that can be toxic to pets and should be avoided. Here are some examples:

• Lilies: Many types of lilies, including Easter lilies, can be highly toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure if ingested.
• Azaleas and Rhododendrons: These plants contain toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even heart failure in dogs and cats.
• Daffodils: All parts of the daffodil plant, including the bulbs, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even convulsions in dogs.
• Aloe Vera: Although aloe vera is generally safe for humans, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in urine color in dogs and cats.

 Install a secure fence: