According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2021 approximately 49.6% of households had at least one pet. With almost half the nation being animal lovers, it is only natural that more homeowners would be keen to make their furry friends feel more at home by integrating pet-friendly features into their properties. 

By doing so pet owners can help to enhance their pets’ quality of life and feel confident they are providing them with a safe and comfortable living space. In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to create a more pet-friendly home,

Food Stations

Feeding equipment for pets such as their food and water bowls can get in the way, causing accidents and mess. Designated food stations can help avoid these problems and keep a living space organized. Built-in food stations which are integrated into the furniture and interior design through custom-made cabinets, interior walls, shelves or pull-out drawers, allow pets to have easy access to their dishes when needed and store them out of sight, keeping the home neat and tidy.

By placing these items in a quiet or secluded area of the home, odors can be eliminated and animals can feel comfortable during meal times. Such features can also help to enhance the value of a property. If you are in the market for a pet-friendly home and considering your financing options,  Associates Home Loan could help you secure the funds you need for a mortgage loan.

Washing Area

Washing pets can be notoriously challenging and can leave the bathroom messy and cluttered. By creating a designated washing area for pets, this problem can be avoided. This feature could be added in a garage, mudroom or laundry room, enabling pet owners to wash their animals before they enter the house, reducing the amount of dirt that gets onto the floor or furniture.

A washing area with a pet shower can make bath times easier. A shower can be fitted lower to the ground compared to a standard one and contain a handheld showerhead for easier access around the animal.

Pet-Friendly Flooring

The flooring within a home can become damaged over time due to factors like scratching nails, urine, mud, hair, and other issues that arise from pet ownership. To prevent floors from being stained, scratched or prone to moisture, pet owners should look for flooring materials that are durable, easy to clean and maintain, allowing them to avoid many of the challenges that can come with looking after a pet. Ideal flooring materials to consider include the following:

• Laminate flooring
• Hardwood flooring
• Tile flooring
• Luxury vinyl flooring
• Bamboo flooring
• Waterproof carpet

The type of flooring that is best will depend on the animal and on the homeowner’s needs. It is worth bearing in mind that cats and dogs both need traction so carpet may be more suitable compared to tile.  While harder flooring materials like tile or hardwood may be ideal scratch-resistant options, flexible materials such as cork and carpet and cork flooring can provide greater support and cushioning for an animal’s feet.

By installing one or more of these features into a home, pet owners and their pets can feel confident in creating a living space tailored to their specific needs.