My dog is part of my family, period. And I’m not alone — according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, over 80% of you feel the same way (we’re not friends with the other 20% anyway…).

We think that animals being part of the family means they should be comfortable and safe in their homes. Keeping your pet in mind when designing your home not only means that you’ll be able to meet their needs, you’ll also be promoting a harmonious living space for everyone! More cuddles? Say no more. Always on the quest to make our fur babies happier, we explored some practical design tips and ideas to help you create a pet-friendly home where your four-legged (or other-legged!) companions can thrive.

Choose pet-friendly materials

When it comes to flooring and furniture, opt for materials that can withstand the wear and tear of pet life (think: claws, nails, slobber). Durable flooring options like vinyl flooring, tile and laminate flooring are waterproof, scratch-resistant and durable. Consider stain-resistant fabrics for furniture, and if you have cats or dogs, choose upholstery that is less likely to attract pet hair or will deter your clawed friend to scratch the living daylight out of your couch (like velvet).

Create a cozy space

Pets need a designated space they can call their own to rest and relax. Set up a cozy corner or a pet bed in a quiet area of your home, away from high traffic zones but near enough to where the family hangs out (they’re social creatures after all!). Add soft blankets or cushions to make it extra inviting. Get creative! Put cozy spots beneath chairs, in shelving units, or in your backyard. This provides them with a retreat and helps them feel secure.

Provide easy and safe access

Make sure enough of your home is accessible for your pets. Install pet doors or gates to allow them to safely move freely between rooms or have access to the backyard, while blocking the rooms they shouldn’t have access to (we’re trying to avoid a scene of ripped up toilet paper rolls…). If you have a multi-story home, consider installing pet-friendly stairs or ramps to help older or smaller pets navigate the space and get to all their cozy spots.

Conceal wires and cords

Pets are naturally curious, and dangling wires or cords can be enticing chew toys. Keep them out of reach or consider hiding them behind furniture, using cord covers, or utilizing cord organizers to minimize the risk of accidents or damage. Childproof accessories work wonders here!

Incorporate pet-friendly storage

Designate a storage area for pet essentials like toys, treats, and grooming supplies. Choose storage solutions that are easily accessible yet secure to keep items organized and out of reach from mischievous pets. This helps maintain a tidy home while ensuring your pets have their essentials close by.

Protect your furniture

We’re proudly on team ‘Pets Are Allowed On The Furniture’, so to prevent furniture damage, consider using furniture covers or throws to protect upholstery from pet hair, scratches, or accidents. You should also provide your pets with their own scratching posts or pads to redirect their natural urge to scratch.

Pet-safe plants

If you love indoor plants, ensure they are pet-friendly and non-toxic. Some common plants like lilies, monsteras, aloe vera, or certain ferns can be harmful to pets if ingested. Do your research and choose pet-safe greenery to create a lush and safe environment, or place toxic plants in places they can’t reach.

Designing a pet-friendly home is all about finding a balance between functionality, comfort, and aesthetics. By incorporating pet-friendly materials, creating cozy spaces, and ensuring accessibility and safety, you can provide your furry friends with an environment where they can thrive and you can deepen your bond. Remember, a living space furnished with pets mind leads to a happier and healthier home for everyone involved!

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