Any pet owner will tell you that their pet is more than just an animal; they’re part of the family. And as part of the family, pets’ needs should be taken into consideration when buying or building a new home. We’ve compiled a number of ways you can accommodate the needs of your furry friend in your new home.
Pet Bathing Station
Anyone who has tried to bathe their pet knows that it’s not an easy task. Most of bath time is spent trying to keep your dog or cat inside the bathtub, and by the end of it, you’re soaking wet and covered in dog hair. Luckily, this isn’t how it has to be. Many pet owners are installing a grooming station in their homes. Depending on the size of your pet, the grooming station may look dierent. For larger dogs, consider a commercial grooming tub, or a walk-in shower with a removable shower head for easy washing. As far as location goes, the best place for a pet bathing station is a laundry room, mudroom, or your garage.
Pet-proof Flooring
Whether you’re building a custom home with your pet in mind or you’re renovating, flooring is an important feature to consider. Pets are prone to making messes, whether it’s from an accident, muddy paws, or sharp claws. It’s important to have tough, impermeable floors that can outlast the puppy zoomies and pet stains. Avoid carpet in spaces your pet will spend a lot of time to reduce any odors. We suggest oak and mahogany hardwood, vinyl plank flooring, or tile.
Pet Havens
Even pets enjoy some time to themselves. Consider turning unusable spaces into pet havens. Popular spaces to do this include under the stairs or in tucked- away corners. Personalize these spaces by adding pet beds or kennels for sleeping, cabinetry or shelving to store toys, or a feeding area for meals. If you are building your home, discuss these plans early in the building process to minimize complications or changes later on.
Fenced-in Yard
This last one is essential, especially for dog owners. A fenced-in backyard provides the opportunity for your pet to get outside and do some exploring without going too far. If you are customizing your home, consider incorporating an outdoor living space for yourself. With your own deck or patio, you can relax while keeping an eye on your pet playing outdoors.
When you build a custom home, you can accommodate the needs of the whole family, including any pets. If you are interested in home customization, contact Paul Gray Homes at 316-990-0000 to speak to an expert and get started!