Simple Ways to Make Your Home More Pet Friendly

It's no secret that we love our pets! We've all seen dog and cat ownership spiral till almost everyone has one, not to mention small creatures like birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles. Whatever the pet, you'll need accommodations for it in that home you're looking at among Lafayette homes for sale. 

What will you do to make things just right for Fifi or Fido in your home? After all, you want to ensure your pets have the best life possible. But you also will need to ensure your home stays bright, shiny, and clean smelling so that human visitors (and occupants) are comfortable.

To that end, here's some good advice from our Realtors® on how to make your home more pet friendly.

1. Vacuuming frequently is essential. 
   This is particularly important if you have fur- or feather-bearing pets. Also, you may need to practice frequent vacuuming around a litter box or a cage where pets such as birds or hamsters, or gerbils throw out seed or bedding. If you have a cat or dog, it's essential to get one of the modern new vacuum cleaners designed to suction up animal hair. You'll be glad you did, as pet hair also has pet dander in it -- an allergen. Pet hair can also give off an odor; plus, it attracts dirt, so it can compromise your upholstered furniture.
   
   
2. Keeping your pets clean helps you maintain your home better. 
   You can't wash them every day, but give your dog a bath at least once a week and do brush your dog daily, so you're removing hair before it's shed. Trim nails if you're up to it, or take the dogs to a groomer and let them grind the nails (this will spare some wear and tear on furniture and floors). If your cat will let you give it a bath, great. If your feline resists, professional groomers can probably get it done or show you how. Clipping cat nails might be a veterinarian's job. With other pets, give them plenty of water to do their washing. Birds love splashing around and preening, cleaning their feathers. Do change materials in cages as often as needed.
   
   
3. Wash bedding at least once a week. 
   Pet bedding gets an odor if left unwashed. Wash it frequently so you can also eliminate pet dander. For non-felines and non-canines, clean cages according to recommendations for the particular pet.
   
   
4. Choose pet-resistant fabrics when buying furniture.
   Leather is a good choice, and though it can be scratched, it is usually strong enough to hold up against pets. Otherwise, avoid silk and velvet. Washable slipcovers are also a good idea.
   
   
5. Invest in a portable upholstery cleaner.
   You know that even the best-behaved pets sometimes get sick and lose control, so make sure to have a portable cleaning solution on hand, using it as soon as the mess occurs. Also, try an enzymatic spot cleaner to get rid of stains and odors.

Need more hints on how to make your home more pet friendly? Or looking for Lafayette open houses to help you with your search for a home your pets will love? Contact us today.