If you have a pet and are considering a complete home renovation, it is beneficial to accommodate them into your remodelling plans from the start to ensure their comfort. This way, you can create a safe space your pet would appreciate while maintaining a beautiful space you can also enjoy.
Choose the right flooring
Although hardwood floors look aesthetically pleasing, they may not be pet friendly, as they are not scratch proof. Tiles, cork, vinyl, laminate, and bamboo are some easy-to-maintain, durable and beautiful options to consider as alternatives.
Improve safety
Safety is an essential aspect of renovating a home that includes pets. This can consist of several things, including the following:
- Installing baby gates to keep your pets out of specific areas.
- Adding a higher railing on the balcony to prevent falls.
- Installing a ramp or incline beside the stairs in your home.
- Use childproof locks for cupboards and cabinets.
Create a comfortable, separate area
When renovating your home, consider creating a separate space for your pet. It should be warm, comfortable, and big enough to fit their bed and some essentials. Ensure they can leave it anytime so they do not feel trapped. In addition, if you have a spacious home, you can build a playroom for them with built-in paths, tunnels, and other things your pet enjoys. You can also install a seat or shelf near a window to provide a view for them.
Add a feeding station
Create a unique drinking and feeding area for your pet. It could be a part of your kitchen island, a designated space in the pantry or the laundry room, or any other portion of your home. Adding a freshwater fountain with easy-to-clean and waterproof flooring is an excellent pet-friendly home renovation idea to avoid dirty water dishes.
Install a washing station or mudroom
Washing stations, especially for dogs, are a popular home renovation idea for pet owners because of the convenience of having a dedicated room for an often dirty task. A handheld showerhead and separate basin or sink can make the process quicker and more efficient. Ensure it is of adequate height, has enough storage area, and is slip-resistant.
Adding a mudroom can provide a convenient separate entryway to prepare your pet for walks, and for cleaning them after returning. Benches, storage shelves, drawers and additional hooks for damp towels, leashes, and jackets are all great options for storage and organization.
A beautiful backyard
If you have a yard, ensure it is appropriately gated and safe for your pet. Vinyl and wood-slat fences are great options for smaller pets, and metal fences are a better choice for larger ones. Also, consider building a pet house in the yard and ensure that it is durable, weatherproof, and adequately insulated. Work with a reliable and fully-certified home renovation contractor who is a member of an industry association like RenoMark to achieve your desired result without stress and additional complications.
Sam Beninato is the owner and founder of renoWOW!. With over 25 years of experience in the contracting and remodelling industry, and having been featured on HGTV, Metro, The Globe & Mail, The Huffington Post, and various industry magazines, his expertise is valued by professionals and homeowners alike.
