place
Shepherd’s Home Hardware Building Centre
3525 Mill Street, Box 37, Armstrong, BC
We can all admit it—modern homes are no longer just for people.
No, our furry friends have more than found their nests in every nook and cranny of our lodgings. This has become a conscious forethought in the minds of homeowners across the country. So, what are some ways that we can foster a pet-friendly home design? How can we create a more comfortable, functional space that caters to the needs of all our two, and four, legged friends?
With the right approach, it’s entirely possible, and Shepherd’s Hardware is here to help! This guide will help you consider how different layouts, materials, maintenance, and comfort are all variables that can be played with and tempered to create that perfect balance for you and your best friend(s).
Pet-friendly home designs start with smart layout decisions. In heavily populated urban areas like Vancouver and Toronto, many homeowners are making the needs of their pet the primary focus of their layout. Pick and choose from the following design elements, or fully adopt them all for a true pet lover’s paradise!
Sleeping, feeding, playing…having established zones can help your pet routinize their behaviour and keep your home organized at the same time. Tucking a dog bed into a particular corner of the living room or having a feeding station in a quiet kitchen corner are both simple examples of how you could make this work.
Open concepts are easier for your pet to navigate, especially larger dogs. A lot of sharp corners can be hard on the hips, and even increase the risk of injury over time. With better visibility, an open floor plan also allows for better supervision. There are some drawbacks, though. More noise being the biggest one!
Add a pet-friendly feature to your existing layout! Built-in nooks are becoming ever more popular under staircases or cabinetry. Add hidden litter box access or food drawers as a way of increasing functionality at the same time.
Any pet owner knows the importance of durability. Pets can wreak havoc on a home, but it’s a matter of finding materials that are both long-lasting AND safe. Here are some options to consider.
Vinyl, tile, and laminate floors are all great choices to choose from. Scratch-resistant, easy to clean, and much more forgiving when it comes to bathroom accidents or spills.
Leather, tightly woven fabrics, or performance materials that are stain-resistant, repel fur, and are less prone to claw marks are all options you want to be on the lookout for. Velvet or tweed are definite no’s. They are prone to trapping fur and wearing down quickly.
Low-VOC and washable paints are going to be your premier choices for pet-heavy zones. They’re safe for animals, but also make it easier to wipe away drool splatter, muddy paw marks, and sloppy nose rubs!
People think pet-friendly means complacency around cleanliness and general upkeep, but that couldn’t be further than the truth. It in fact means considering them beforehand, and choosing the right pet-friendly home design elements to stay on top of daily messes.
This is a gamechanger—surfaces that can be quickly cleaned like tile backsplashes, stain-resistant floors, and sealed countertops are worth the time, effort, and money. It’ll be paid back ten-fold over time as you significantly reduce your cleanup on a daily basis.
We all know how out of hand the toys, the leashes, and the grooming tools can get. Help reduce clutter by having a dedicated storage area, cupboard, bin, or basket to keep things organized. Mudroom cabinets and entryways are great places for easy access.
Heavy shedding dogs and cats call for an air purifier. Improved ventilation can go a long way toward keeping things fresh (be sure to change the filter regularly). Natural airflow also makes a huge difference, so don’t be afraid to open those windows once in a while!
A pet-friendly home design also has to consider the safety and comfort of everyone involved. From where they might roam to what they might eat, there are many things to think about.
Did you know that common houseplants like lilies and pothos can be toxic to pets? Safer options would be spider plants, bamboo palms, and ferns. You’ll want to consider natural cleaners, as well: baking soda and vinegar, for example.
It’s one of our biggest fears, having our special friends wander off into the neighbourhood! Secure fencing, enclosed patios, lockable door flaps—you name it. If you’re in an apartment, you may also want to consider safety netting on your balcony, as well.
To make your home more inviting for your pet, add soft bedding to the areas where you spend the most time. They want to be close to you, so make them comfortable in their own special way. Opt for ones with washable covers for easy cleaning!
Designing a pet-friendly home doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. But, it does mean embracing thoughtful choices that prioritize comfort, cleanliness, and safety for every member of the household.
Need help making the right choices? That’s where we come in.
Shepherd’s Hardware is your local source for everything you need to build a home that both you and your pets can enjoy. Let our expert team guide you through the best options. Come visit us today!
This guide will help you consider how different layouts, materials, maintenance, and comfort are all variables that can be played with and tempered to create that perfect balance for you and your best friend(s).
Improving your home sustainably means making choices that use fewer resources, conserve energy, and promote long-term environmental health. Want a greener home? Shepherd’s Hardware is here to get you on your way!
With today’s smart home devices, you can turn any home into a highly-functional space that anticipates your needs. Shepherd’s Hardware is here to help you make it happen.
