Make your home even more of a pet haven with these three tips

There’s no denying how much we love our pets. The millions of dollars spent every year on pet products are a testament to that fact. And while you may make sure your furry friends only get the best food, toys, and perhaps even clothes, there is something else you can do to ensure they are happy: make your home as pet-friendly as possible. Here are some ways to do it:

Think about safety

Even if you don’t have kids, you can take the same baby-proofing approach inside with your pets. Keep any electrical cords or wires tucked away to avoid your pet from getting tangled or choked. Child locks and latches on cabinets can prevent pets from getting into the trash, as well as coming into contact with cleaning supplies and other hazardous materials. And if you have a kitty that likes to hang out on window sills, be sure screens are securely fastened.

One of the best ways to keep your pets safe outside is with a fence. It probably won’t stop a cat from coming and going as he pleases, but it will ensure your pooch stays put. But before you unleash your pets in the yard, check to see if you have any potentially toxic plants or trees out there. These include chrysanthemums, ivy, and red maple.

Give them their own space

Your pets might spend a lot of time at your feet or in your lap, but they probably want a space of their own. But this doesn’t mean it has to infringe on your décor. A dog crate stashed away in a kitchen corner or under a table will provide a nice secluded spot. With cats, you want to think vertical, and a tall scratching tree is a good option.

If your dog likes spending time outside, a doghouse is a great idea. Not only will this provide a place to nap, it can also offer shelter from bad weather or the harsh sun. And even if you have indoor cats, they can still experience the great outdoors with their very own cat run.

Let the water flow

Did you know that cats instinctively are suspicious of standing water? That’s why you may find yours moving the water dish before taking a sip or trying to take a drink from a faucet. Bringing in a constantly moving water fountain will make you their hero.

As for your dog, there are tons of water features you can add to your yard that would offer a place to get a drink and cool down. A small pool or pond, a waterfall, or even a splash pad will entertain your canine for hours.

These are just a few things you can do to improve your home for your pets, but the bad news is that if you’re in a rental, you really don’t have a ton of options. The good news? With your own home, you can transform it however you like. If you’re ready to look for a new place to live, Dante can show you some excellent homes both you and your pets will love. Get in touch by filling out his online contact form.

This material is based upon information which we consider reliable, but because it has been supplied by third parties, we cannot represent that it is accurate or complete, and it should not be relied upon as such. These offerings are subject to errors, omissions, prior sales, changes, including but not restricted to, price or withdrawal without notice. A buyer should be represented by legal counsel and have a professional inspection and a survey of the property certified to the buyer to verify information contained herein and all other information upon which a buyer may intend to rely. William Raveis Real Estate.