Our animal companions share our homes with us; thus, houses aren’t only for humans. And, with pets in over 67 percent of US households, more folks now than ever are pet owners. According to the APPA 2019-2020 study, this number equates to more than 85 million pet-owning households. Cats and dogs are the most popular pets. Naturally, today’s pet owners want the finest for their pets and the greatest amenities to make looking after them as simple as possible. That is why you cannot discuss the home-building process without mentioning your dogs, cats, and other furry creatures. Fortunately, while building, now is the ideal time to make all the preparations for your furry companions’ health so that the residence can be their dream home as well.
Choose Your Flooring
Choose shiny or semi-gloss plaster or tiling in areas where you anticipate your dogs will devote the majority of their day. These surfaces are simple to clean if they get soiled or damp. In addition, you’ll benefit from choosing a type of flooring that is long-lasting and slip-resistant, such as premium vinyl flooring, floor tiles, cement, stone, or ceramic or porcelain tiles. Not only are these kinds of flooring long-lasting, but they are also cooler than carpeting, which is advantageous if you live in a hot area and have a companion with thick or long fur.
If you want natural hardwood flooring:
- Be prepared for the patina (a lovely way of expressing wear and tear) that occurs with dogs walking on natural hardwood.
- Expect minor dings and scrapes.
- Try choosing hardwood floors with a matte or low sheen finish to hide wear and tear since shiny floors reveal flaws more easily. You can also choose the flooring that has been manually scraped or damaged in some manner so that your pet’s scratches and scrapes blend in with the predefined sequence of the floor.
- You’ll need to mop up your dogs’ puddles as soon as possible to prevent discoloration and warping.
If you are going to have carpeting in your house, pick a shade similar to the shade of your pet’s hair. Smudges and flaking will be less visible as a result. The carpeting may not be the best flooring for dogs, but it does have certain advantages. It’s a non-slip surface with soft cushioning for your dogs to stroll and sleep on. And, unlike hard floors, you won’t be able to hear your pet’s footfall on the carpet. And as a result, your house will be quieter.
Pick an excellent stain-resistant low-pile carpet to make cleanup simpler. Also, invest in anti-microbial, moisture-resistant cushioning to preserve the underneath floor. Another alternative is to use carpet padding instead of conventional carpet rolls. That manner, when a few carpet tiles are severely soiled, you may remove those tiles rather than replacing the whole room’s carpet. Remember to purchase a few extra carpet tiles for future maintenance.
Build a Specific Pet Zone
Install a Pet Station in the bathroom, foyer, or entrance where you bring your pet out more than anything. Incorporate storage cupboards for your pet’s snacks, litter, cleaners, games, and other things. Add pull-out containers for food products and tether hooks. If you have the room, you may install a raised dog wash (elevated since it is easier on your back) or a big basin with a spraying handle to quickly wash dirty paws or pet showers. And if you must place a litter box in this location, try installing an exhaust fan to eliminate smells. Don’t forget to invest in high-quality products and services for tick control in this area.
Choose Your Furniture
Upholstered furniture, like carpets, should be resistant to stain. That’s why it’s recommended that you pay extra for scotch guard protection. Your furniture should be durable and similar to the color of your pet’s hair, but not too light. You may want to explore slip covered furnishings so that you can clean the coverings when they become dirty. Choose durable materials such as microfiber, often known as ultra-suede, leather, and even exterior textiles. These textiles are long-lasting but not unbreakable. As a result, keep your pet’s nails cut regularly. And, if you go with leather, keep in mind that it may be scratched, so only go with leather if you can deal with furnishings that have patina.
When you put in the effort to consider what is ideal for your pet’s specific requirements, you will be well on your way to creating a wonderful home for them, complete with the right flooring, pet zones, and suitable furnishings for you and your beautiful companions. Preparing ahead of time can save you effort and money over the long term, making it simpler to construct the house of your dreams.
