Most pet parents would not choose to live in a home that is uncomfortable for their beloved pets. Fortunately, pet-friendly home design is becoming a hot topic in the design world. There are dozens of professional tips available on how to design a home that is beautiful, pet-friendly and perfect for pet parents. That’s a true trifecta of awesome, or, should we say, “pawsome”!
Consider these six tips as you design and decorate your pet-friendly home:
- Make use of Stain-Resistant Fabrics
As much as you might think Fido will not climb up on the bed when you are gone, there is a good chance you are mistaken. Pet parents want their homes to be comfortable for pets and people alike and, because of this, it is wise to use stain-resistant fabrics liberally in home design. Stain-resistant fabrics make big pieces like the couch and beds accessible for all family members, not just the two-legged ones. - Opt for Hardwood or Laminate Floors
Carpet grabs and holds odor as well as trapping pet hair and the bacteria borne from pet stains. Instead of opting to carpet the entire home, opt for hard floors like hardwood or laminate materials. These materials are easy to clean and give longhaired pets a cool place to sleep during hot summer months. - Include Designated Pet Space
A large piece of pet-friendly design is considering a pet’s lifestyle and needs while setting up the home. If you have large dogs who spend a great deal of time outside, it may be wise to set up a mudroom that allows them to come in and shake off without making a mess of the living room or kitchen. If you have a cat that loves to bask in the sun, consider equipping a sunny room with a bed and a catnip plant for maximum enjoyment. - Allow Space For Or Mount An Air Purifier
This tip is as much for your guests who come to your home as for yourself. Pet dander is what often causes allergies to flare up in humans. With one in five Americans suffering from allergy or asthma, that is a big problem that many pet parents face. An air purifier will overcome this obstacle with ease by filtering out the microscopic flecks of skin shed by pets with fur, which is commonly known as pet dander. (Pet dander is not just the fur itself, so hairless cats can produce it as well). Pet dander does not only exist in younger pets but older ones as well; it actually gets worse as an animal ages, so an air purifier is a good investment for all households with pets. - Purchase High-Quality, Attractive Pet Toys
It is nearly guaranteed that the family dog will leave toys lying around at one point or another so you might as well make sure they are not awful to look at. Purchasing attractive pet toys is more than just a way to keep your pet happy and entertained; it also helps your home stays beautiful. - Use Your Pet For Color Inspiration
To take pet-friendly design one step further, consider using your pet’s coat color as inspiration when choosing large items like couches and accent chairs. In addition to bringing a sense of cohesion to the home, matching furniture to your pet’s coat also hides pet hair and contributes to a neat-looking home.
Achieving an aesthetically pleasing and a pet-friendly living space does not have to be complicated. A series of simple changes and considerations is all it takes to ensure that a home is durable and well suited for pets. Pet-friendly home design is important to pet parents and these six simple tips can help you get started on creating a home that is beautiful, functional and comfortable for every member of your family, including the four-legged ones.
Photo ©iStock.com/ YKD
