Celebrating National Dog Day – Making your Home Dog-friendly
Moving can be a big change for everyone in the family – including your pets. As we celebrate National Dog Day on August 26th, let’s talk about making a dog-friendly home your furry friend can enjoy. Making your home dog-friendly involves creating a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable environment for your 4-legged friend. Here are some steps to help you achieve that:
Safety First
First and foremost we want to keep our pets safe as they are adjusting to their new spaces. We know moving to a new home is exciting and can come with a lot of new décor, floral arrangements, and cleaning to make your home exactly the way that you want it, as you are doing so, just be sure that keep these things in mind:
- Remove or secure any hazards such as toxic plants, small objects that can be swallowed, electrical cords, and sharp objects
- Install baby gates to restrict access to certain areas
- Use pet-friendly cleaning products to ensure your dog isn’t exposed to harmful chemicals
Comfortable Sleeping Area
A new home with new spaces lends the opportunity to have a relaxation space for your dog. You can have this be just a bed, or if you have the room, have fun with it and make it a puppy’s palace! Whatever you choose, remember these tips:
- Provide a cozy bed or crate for your dog to sleep in (there are some really stylish options out there that can go right along with you décor)
- Place the bed in a quiet corner that can be dimmed of light where they can rest undisturbed
Access to Water and Food:
Dogs love their food and water bowls. It’s their time to enjoy their meals and nourish their bodies. Having a designated space for their food and water bowls can make them feel comfortable as they are eating and drinking:
- Set up a designated area for your dog’s food and water bowls
- Pay attention to if your dog prefers bowls on the floor or a raised bowl station (it can be important for digestion)
- Place a waterproof mat underneath the bowl area to protect the floors from water damage
- Ensure that fresh water is always available