While most homeowners would gladly do what they must to protect their cats, dogs, and other cherished family members, we also know they don’t want pet-proofing their homes to get in the way of their interior home design.
Your family home should be a pleasant and safe place for all your household members, and that would certainly include our furry friends. Responsible pet owners will complete the process of pet-proofing their home, so their pets never have to make an unfortunate trip to the vet. While most homeowners would gladly do what they must to protect their cats, dogs, and other cherished family members, we also know they don’t want pet-proofing their homes to get in the way of their interior home design. So, here are a few tips on making your home a safer place for all your critters, without letting the pet-proofing sacrifice your style.
Keep Away Chewable Clutter
Whether it’s hair ties, kids’ toys, newspapers, remotes, or that other shoe you’ve been looking all over for, dogs and other pets can have the tendency to chew what they’re not supposed to. As much as a pet parent would think their pet knows better, it’s up to us to keep these items cleared and out of their reach. Having designated organizers, drawers, baskets, shelves, and closet space to put away your things helps you keep a tidier house and unwanted items out of reach.
Hide Any Cords and Wires
Unruly wires from our lamps, computers, and device chargers can already contribute to a cluttered up look in any room. But worse than that, it could cause burns and electrocution to any curious pet that starts playing with them. Get cord covers and organizers to hide away or keep them out of their reach.
Use Invisible Child-Proof Cabinet Locks
Our kitchens are always a source of interesting and mouth-watering smells for our pets. It’s also where we can keep some more dangerous items, like cleaning supplies and detergents, under the kitchen sink. Traditional child-proof locks on the lower cabinets help with pet-proofing as well, but not every homeowner will be a fan of those clunky handle locks distracting from their gorgeous kitchen cabinets. Instead, try the discreet child-proof locks using magnets or hidden latching systems to keep these cabinet doors closed.
Cover or Tuck Away the Trash
Our trash cans can also attract our pets’ attention, but we most certainly want to keep them out of there too. Pet owners tend to get trash bins with covers on them for that purpose. However, most modern kitchens keep the trash and recycling bins under the counters and in the cabinets with pull-out holders. This way, the containers can stay out of sight and out of mind for you and your furry friends.
Research Your Houseplants
Houseplants have made an enormous comeback for interior decorating in recent years. People love adding that bit of nature throughout different rooms in their homes. Pet owners also take care to place their potted plants out of reach from any naughty pet, but one can’t ever be too careful. Do your research on pet-friendly plants that won’t poison or upset your pet’s stomach if ingested. Here’s just one resource from Architectural Digest to get you started.
Design and Build Your Dream Home with Columbia Builders!
Columbia Builders is the home builder of choice in Howard County, offering homes in Ellicott City, Elkridge, Laurel, Columbia, Marriottsville, Fulton, Clarksville, Dayton, and Brookeville. No matter what the size and scope of your project, we have the skills, experience, and resources needed to bring your vision to life. We offer a level of customization that is truly unmatched and are committed to using materials and craftsmen of the highest quality, so you can trust that your new home is built to last.
If you’re ready to invest in a home that is built with your needs in mind, trust in us. Give Columbia Builders a call today at 410-730-0215 or use our contact form here. You can also keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, Houzz, and Youtube, and don’t forget to check back on our blog for more tips and information!