When we think about renovation mistakes, most of us consider common setbacks, such as using the wrong materials or DIY disasters. For pet owners, however, the scope of what can go wrong during a renovation is exponentially larger.
*Collaborative Post
If you fail to consider what’s happening with your pets during renovation work, then you’re at a particular risk for making some pretty serious mistakes that will be difficult to come back from. To avoid that, we’re going to consider what those pet-based renovation mistakes are and how you can tackle them head-on at the planning stage!
Leaving Your Pets in the House
If you’re currently living in the house that you’re renovating, then you might not think twice about simply locking your pet in another room and getting on with things. But all animals hate noise and disruption. As such, they are not well-suited to the renovation environment.
Even in a general sense, it will be distressing for your pet to see high foot traffic and significant disruption to their home environment. But stress levels will quickly soar when you start using heavy machinery. That can result in unnecessary distress and even fear-based behavioural issues that might include toilet accidents or aggression.
To avoid the issue, consider taking your dog to work with you if possible, or ask a close friend or family member who is familiar with your dog to watch over them during your heaviest renovation days.
Underestimating Renovation Hazards
We all know that renovation zones can be hazardous, but many pet owners make the mistake of underestimating those hazards, or simply not realising just how many things could leave their pet at risk.
Unfortunately, just removing dangerous equipment and covering delicate areas isn’t enough. Your pet is also at risk of ingesting dangerous chemicals. Leaving your pet in an area that’s filled with toxic fumes from paint, varnish, and glue can also result in an emergency call to a 24-7 vet.
To avoid these issues, it’s important to also fully air any areas where chemicals are used, and ideally keep your pet away from those spaces for at least 24 hours after you’ve finished. That way, you can fully protect your pet’s health during this project.
Forgetting The Possibility of Pet Intervention
Many homeowners also forget that pets can prove just as disruptive for renovations as renovations are for them.
The most obvious example of this has got to be paw prints in your cement, or scratches down wet plaster, but those aren’t the only issues. Pets are also at risk of rubbing across wet paint, chewing brand new wiring, and even leaving unpleasant surprises, like cat pee and worse, right where you’re about to lay carpet. At best, these issues mean you’ll need to redo your work. At worst, they could see your entire renovation developing a funky smell over time.
So, always be aware of these risks, and keep renovation areas fully pet-free and closed off using proper pet fences for the duration of your project.