Welcoming a pet into your family is an exciting time, full of responsibility and equal amounts of love! There’s a lot to pet ownership, so you need to be prepared and to ensure your home is set up to cater for your new furry friend. From food bowls to toys and cosy bedding, there are plenty of pet supplies you should consider to make a space that’s comfortable and safe, so that you can both enjoy all the chin scratches and belly rubs! Here are a few tips that will help you turn your home into a pet-friendly home for your treasured friend.
Storage solutions for pet toys and supplies
Just like kids, pets come with a lot of stuff. From their toys to the everyday essentials, like leashes, food and water, these items can begin to take over your home. You want to find a solution that’s both practical and stylish.
Consider emptying out a cabinet in the kitchen to dedicate to food storage – visitors won’t even know it’s there! You can pop a bin inside and fill it with dry food that’s nice and easy to scoop out for mealtimes. If you have a dog, then a walking station is just as important. Pop their leash, poop bags, treats and even your walking gear (such as a hat), somewhere near the front door that’s convenient to access on your way out.
When it comes to keeping all their toys together, open baskets and bins are a great solution. Kids and other family members can easily grab something out and have some fun playing with their furry friend, with a dedicated spot to pop it back when they’re done.
Indoor plants that are safe for pets
If you love plants as much as your pets, it’s important to know that some may not be fun for your furry friend. In fact, some plants can be harmful when ingested, so you’ll have to make sure the plant is out of reach and eyesight. The good news is, you still have options to brighten up your home, clean the air and improve your mood, without risk to your pet. Some plants that are safe for pets include the Rattlesnake Plant, which is a great addition to any low-light living space, requiring minimal maintenance. Another easy one to grow is the Spider Plant, which is also a great air purifier for your home.
If you are ever unsure, you can always ask your local vet!
Artwork and decor that celebrates pets
There’s no better way to brighten your space and welcome a new furry family member than with some pet-friendly artwork. Go personal with a framed portrait or canvas photo print of your new pet. Hang it up on the living room wall, alongside other family photos. Or, you can even hang it above their sleeping space to create an area that is their own. You may also want to get your kids involved with some pet-friendly art that you can proudly display on the fridge.
If you want to take your design game to the next level, then look no further than animal print wallpaper. These designs are a cute and fun way to make a room pop, and is perfect for a hallway or laundry your pet frequents. You can even lay out a pet-themed blanket for your furry friend to snuggle up on during the day.
Flooring that can withstand wear and tear
Often overlooked initially, the type of flooring you have in your pet’s living areas is extremely important – particularly for new dog owners. Our canine friends can do some damage with their nails, so you’ll want to make sure that your flooring is both scratch resistant, but also something that can withstand spills or an accident or two.
Tile is a popular choice for pet owners as it can be scratch resistant and easy to clean. Choose from porcelain, ceramic and natural stone, and reap the benefits of a long-lasting material that also offers traction for your furry friend. Looking for something more budget-friendly? Vinyl can be a great choice, replicating the look of hardwood floors without the risk of scratches.
Furniture that’s both stylish and durable
Let’s face it. Many of us start off with a rule that there’s no pets on the couch, but before long you find yourself snuggling up to your new best friend each and every night. They do make the best company! However, despite the temptation of cuddles, the last thing you want is to find your couch in shreds or covered in pet fur.
One great solution that can easily be fitted over your existing couch, or arm chair is a pet-friendly slip. Then, you can pull it off and pop it in the wash when you need it.
If you are looking to splash out on a new couch, there are a few materials that are purrfect for pets and their owners.
Leather is a great material as the fur simply drops off and you can even vacuum it up. Plus, it doesn’t absorb the odours like some other materials. However, if your pet has a favourite spot on the couch, you may notice it darkening over time.
Woven fabrics are also great, as they can disguise any stains and make the pet hair less noticeable to the eye. You can also opt for prints and colours that will hide any wear and tear.
These are just a few simple tips that can help you transform your house into a pet-friendly haven. By making just a few changes, your pet will feel comfortable and safe with your family and they will settle right in, ready to create a lifetime of memories together.