Pet-Proofing Your Home

Our four-legged friends are often some of the most important, and most adorable, members of our family. In order to provide our furry companions a safe place to explore and grow, our team recommends “pet-proofing” your home. Not only does this create a safe environment, but it also protects  your home from any wear-and-tear and allows it to stand the test of time. 

First, we recommend dedicating a specific drawer or cabinet to pet supplies. Before you know it, your pet supplies like treats, leashes, doggie bags, and more can take up a significant amount of space in your home. Having a place to store all of these items helps to declutter your space and creates one go-to spot for all of your needs. . 

Another important factor to consider is your choice of flooring. Instead of opting for the typical hardwood or carpet, we suggest going for a more durable material like luxury vinyl, engineered wood, or tile. “Switching to one of these flooring types protects the floor from deterioration, but doesn’t force homeowners to sacrifice style,” says Ilene Harpuder of ERA Justin Realty. 

If you are interested in having area rugs in your home space, we advise our clients to invest in machine washable, water resistant, and stain resistant rugs. How many times has your pet jumped out of the bath soaking wet or run inside the house with muddy paws? With washable rugs, there is no need to worry. Simply throw the rug in the washing machine and it will come out as good as new! 

While using childproof locks may not be the first thing that comes to your mind when preparing your home for a pet, it is very important to prioritize safety for your animal. Our top tips include locking cabinets and drawers that are within your pet’s reach, closing toilet lids, moving medications and cleaners to a safe location, and taking electric cords out of reach. This way, your animal can roam freely and safely without you having to worry.  

“Taking all of these precautions not only protects your pet, but keeps your home in pristine condition and makes it all that much easier to put it on the market when you are ready to sell,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner of ERA Justin Realty. 

If you are interested in beginning the home selling journey, give Ilene Harpuder or any of our agents a call at (201) 939-7500.