3 Ways Homes with Pets Can Be Functional, Fabulous, and Animal-Friendly

Over the past 35 years, my husband and I have had many dogs. Big, lovable mutts we shared our home with and were a part of our family. They had free reign of the house, and because of that, our vacuum cleaner got a real workout, but the kitchen floor was always clean! So today, I'll be sharing a few considerations for homeowners with pets.

1. Pick Performance Fabrics Whenever Possible

Performance fabric for furniture and slipcovers is a wise choice. Muddy paw prints wipe right up, and fur doesn't get embedded between the fibers. Should you match fabrics to the pets' fur color? I'm undecided as it would undoubtedly camouflage the fur, but it may mask how frequently you need to vacuum. Check out these 3 Steps to Choosing the Best Fabric for Your Furnishings for more tips.

2. Select Smart Flooring for Every Room

Our dogs loved it when we had wall-to-wall carpeting in most of the house. There was quite a transition for them when we renovated and replaced the carpet with hardwood. It was too smooth for them to get traction, and they slipped a lot. And as they got older, it was difficult for them to get up. If you choose a smooth floor, opt for something with low slippage.

3. Place Extra Protection on the Floors

No matter which floor surface you have, indoor-outdoor rugs help as an additional layer of protection in high-traffic areas. As they get soiled from pet dander, fur, and muddy paws, it's easy to pick them up and shake or hose them off outside.

With the right fabric and floor protection, it is possible to have a beautiful home and indoor pets. Just like people often need a room or space to which they can retreat, pets also need this.

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Until next time,

Laura