How to Have a Pet-Friendly Home

A pet-friendly home starts with responsible owners. Animals need more than food and water to lead long and happy lives. Provide your precious pet with plenty of love, shelter and a safe living environment. Review the guidelines below to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Evaluate your indoor living space. Take notice of any potential hazards such as unsecured doors or houseplants. Also consider home furnishings and the size of your quarters. Indoor pets enjoy spacious surroundings and the occasional nap on a couch. If you choose not to allow your pets on your furniture, provide him with his own bed. Designate a comfy spot in the living room where your pooch can relax with the rest of the family.

2. Scope out the the backyard landscape. Take notice of any plants that could pose threats to a pet. Some plants are poisonous to dogs, so know what's growing back there before you set Fido loose. Check out the ASPCA website for a list of dog-toxic backyard plants.

3. Carefully study the parameter of the yard. Make sure the area is secure and well-enclosed. Make sure the fence or gate is intact and there are no escape routes like holes or gaps in the barrier.

4. Choose your home furnishings wisely. Pampered pets prefer to lay alongside their owner on the bed and living room furniture, so choose durable furniture that can withstand wear and tear. Opt for colors that don't show dirt and hair like beige, tan or brown.

5. Designate a spot for your pet's needs. Food and water bowls should be kept in the same spot and must be maintained. Keep the water bowl full, and make sure there are no impediments to your pet's food and drink. Situate the litter box in a less-frequented area of the house. Laundry rooms or garages are good options, but any spot will do. Make sure your cat has quick and easy access to its box and that you keep it clean. Cats are reluctant to use dirty and neglected litter boxes.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a water bottle around. If you catch your kitty scratching the furniture, give him a startling spray.
• Consider adding a doggy door to give your pet quick access to the backyard. This will also relieve you from having to let him out at his every whim.
• If you have dogs and cats, keep the cat food elevated and out of reach of your dogs. Cats can jump and get to food sitting on table tops and other pieces of furniture.
• Regularly clean your pet's water and food bowls. Use regular dish soap and thoroughly dry before reusing.
• Store cat and dog food in a plastic or metal container tightly secured with a lid. This keeps insects out and freshness in.
• Feed your pets at the same times each day to establish a routine.
• Cats like to exercise their claws, and sometimes they do this on your furniture. Avoid damage to your upholstered pieces, by keeping a scratching post around.
• Keep food sealed up and out of your dog's reach. Never leave food unattended on a table or counter top where animals may feel tempted. Many human food items are dangerous to dogs and cats.
• If you don't have a big back yard, commit yourself to walking Rover around the hood regularly. Dogs need ample exercise and shouldn't be confined indoors all day nor should they be chained to a tree. Understand the physical needs of a pet before rushing out to get one.