When building a home, it’s important to think about more than just your and your family’s needs. Your pet’s needs should also be considered. After all, your home should be where everyone feels comfortable and safe. Fortunately, you can do a few things to make sure your home meets the needs of your whole family, including your furry friends. Here are common factors to consider when you’re thinking of building a home with your pet in mind:
Location
Location is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a pet-friendly home. You will want to ensure that the neighborhood you choose is safe for your pet and that there are plenty of places nearby where you can take them for walks. Having quick and easy access to parks and other green spaces will give you and your pet ample opportunity to get fresh air and exercise. You may also want to consider whether the area has other amenities that would benefit your pet, such as a pet store or groomer. Hence, you can find the ideal place to build your pet-friendly house with the right information. You can find available house and land packages online, where you can discover various options that can not only accommodate your pet, but also ensure you and your family have a comfortable and enjoyable life in a new community.
Pet-friendly Neighbors
If you’re moving into a neighborhood with lots of families and young children, chances are that it will also be pretty pet-friendly. After all, kids and animals tend to go hand-in-hand! However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and introduce yourself to your future neighbors before making any assumptions about their feelings towards pets. A quick chat over the fence or even a walk through the local park should give you a good idea of the general opinion on pets.
Home Features
When deciding on your future home, you should also consider features specifically designed for pets. Here are some you can consider:
A Securely Fenced Yard
One of the first things you’ll want when looking at house plans is whether it includes a secure fence. A pet-safe enclosure will provide your furry friend with a designated space to run, play, and explore without fear of them getting lost or hurt. It’s also worth noting that many homeowners’ associations are likely to have rules and regulations regarding fencing, so be sure to research before finalizing your house plans. Similarly, you will want to ensure that you have enough outdoor space in relation to your house size. This will give your pet the space they need to freely roam in your property without being cramped.
Pet-Specific Features
Depending on your pet, you might have to make a few adjustments to your home to accommodate their needs. For instance, if you have a cat, you might need to install screens on windows and doors to keep them from getting out. Dogs, on the other hand, might need a doggy door installed, so they can come and go as they please. There are also a number of products on the market specifically designed to make life easier for pet owners, such as automatic feeders and self-cleaning litter boxes.
Pet-Friendly Flooring
When choosing flooring for your pet-friendly home, you’ll want to select materials that are easy to clean and less likely to get damaged by pet claws. Some good options include linoleum, vinyl, and ceramic tile. These materials are all durable and can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth or mop. But suppose you also want either hardwood or carpeted flooring. In that case, you can also limit your pet’s access to some areas of your house, so they won’t be able to scratch or soil the floors as easily.
Plenty of Storage Space
Be sure to take storage into consideration when building a new home. After all, between food, toys, bedding, and leashes—not to mention your belongings—you’ll need somewhere to put everything! Closets with built-in shelving or an attic with lots of open space are great options for storing your pet-related items. Moreover, it also provides you with the space to keep things out of your pet’s reach, such as important files or other belongings.
Whether you’re a new pet parent or are just looking to make your future home more pet-friendly, it’s important to thoroughly plan and anticipate what everyone may need. By taking the time to do your research and budgeting well for your house, you can ensure that both you and your furry friend will love your future home.
