Creating a Pet-Friendly Home: Tips for a Safe and Happy Environment

We sure love our pets, don’t we? How could we not? They offer us love unconditionally and an endless supply of licks and cuddles when we need it the most—and even when we don’t. So, if our pets are so important to us, why wouldn’t we pull out all the stops to create a pet-friendly home?

If you’re like most pet owners, your love for your pet extends beyond adorning your living room with custom pet portraits. You want them always to be safe and secure, even when you’re not looking.

So, in this article, we’ll give you the scoop on what you can do to create a safe and happy environment for your pet.

 

5 Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe at Home

Here’s the thing. When it comes to creating a safe space for our pets, we need to think about safety from two perspectives. What can your pet get into during waking hours? And, what can they get into when you are deep in sleep, snoring away?

The truth is that while many of us have pets that slumber away next to us or stay deep asleep when we’re sleeping, some pets might wake up and decide to wander the house. After all, everyone needs some me time now and again.

This means that you need to think about what they can get into when you’re not looking. Pets have an instinct to hide their pain and illness. So, if they get hurt in the night, they might not cry out with a bark or a loud meow to let you know.

With all this said, here are five tips on how to keep your pet safe, day and night.

Choose Pet-Safe Fabrics

Okay, we know that this sounds like it is more for you than your pet, and there is some truth to that. But choosing pet-safe fabric can keep your pet safe, too. Some pets like to scratch, and even those that don’t can create inadvertent damage when their nails get too long. 

Plus, pets are far more likely to cause damage to soft upholstery. And as soon as that first hole appears, you know what your pet will do—chew and consume that fabric without thinking twice. So, sticking to thicker options like synthetic fabrics, leather, and distressed leather is often the best choice.

Block Off Balconies

Many homes today are designed with open banisters and balconies, which can be extremely dangerous for pets, even if your cat has nine lives remaining. If your home has a balcony or slatted banister, consider whether or not your pet can squeeze through. If they can, well, let’s not get too specific about what can happen.

The best solution here is to block an open banister with a piece of furniture. Just make sure the furniture is not designed so that your pet can hop on board for easier access to leap. Another option is to block the banister by weaving thick fabric or mesh between the slats. Plenty of colors are available online or at your local fabric or hardware store to keep this option from being an eyesore.

Helpful hint: Consider outdoor decks, railings, and balconies, too, and make sure those areas are safe for your pet as well.

Provide a Safe Pet-Only Space

While many pets like to follow us wherever we go, no matter what we’re doing—gone are the days of bathroom privacy—make sure your pet has a space just their own. This gives them a retreat when they are overstimulated, tired, or need non-human time. Adorn it with a pet bed, favorite pet-appropriate toys or scratching posts, and perhaps a water dish if the area permits.

Remember that your pet might want to retreat to their privacy space at night time, so make sure there is nothing in the space that could cause injury.

Accessible Food and Water Stations

While your pet may show you some strong hints that they are thirsty or hungry, they can’t get their own food and water when the dishes run dry. And just as it is for humans, your pet always needs access to water. They also need access to food when meal time comes or at all times if you practice open feeding.

Consider the design of your home to decide the best place to place feeding stations. Depending on where you and your family—and pet—spend their time, you may need more than one. Popular places include the back entrance of the home, near the kitchen. You may also want to consider food and water dishes in the master bathroom. This might sound odd, but it can be super convenient to let your pet get in their morning or evening meal while you are grabbing a quick shower. We’re all about saving time, plus you can keep an eye on them at the same time!

Finally, consider using elevated feeders for larger dogs to help with digestion and reduce the strain on their necks and joints. For smaller pets or those with special needs, choose bowls that are easy to reach and can't be tipped over. Remember to change the water regularly to keep it fresh and clean. Adding a pet fountain can also encourage hydration by providing a constant water flow.

Secure Hazardous Areas

While we often pet-proof the obvious areas, it's easy to overlook certain spaces that can pose risks to our pets. We already talked about balconies and banisters, but also be sure to secure any hazardous areas, such as the kitchen, garage, and laundry room. 

Keep cleaning supplies, chemicals, and small objects that can be swallowed out of reach just as you would for kids. Install baby gates or use closed doors to block off these areas when you're not around to supervise. Additionally, keep trash cans covered or stored away, as pets are naturally curious and might dig through the garbage for a tasty (but potentially dangerous) snack. Note: You may need to add a pet lock to your garbage can if your furry friend is especially adept at trickery.

 A little extra effort in securing these areas can go a long way in preventing accidents and keeping your pet safe.

 

A Safe Pet is a Healthy Pet

It’s our job as our pet’s human to keep them safe and healthy. Following the five tips we shared above can set you on the right track to do just that. And remember, pet safety is not a one-and-done initiative. Check your home frequently for safety issues that could cause them harm. The more you do for your pet, the safer and healthier they’ll be.