Making Your Home Pet-Friendly: Tips From First National Real Estate SA

With four million Australian households owning a cat or a dog, it’s important to consider responsibilities around pet ownership when buying or renovating your home, according to First National Real Estate SA.

“Pets are an important part of the Australian household. Their needs and well-being must be considered when buying a new home, as how the pet is accommodated can affect their temperament, your relationship with neighbours, and the state of your garden and house.”

For example, while a large dog can live happily in an apartment, you would want to be sure you had easy access to a dog-friendly park or beach so that the essential daily walks are convenient.

“On the other hand, if you are looking at a house with a large yard you must consider whether the dog can be kept securely, and be prepared to invest in quality fencing if necessary to ensure the pet cannot escape,” he said.

Another consideration was ensuring the family pet didn’t end up affecting the re-sale of the home.

“Some people can be very sensitive to animal hairs and odours, so it’s important you choose a house your pet can enjoy but that can be easily cleaned and maintained”.

Here are some other things to consider when planning the purr-fect home:

· Wooden floors or tiles are easier to maintain and keep free of animal odours than carpet. If you do have carpeting through the house, be prepared to steam-clean it regularly.
· If you have an active dog, have a well fenced yard and display a Beware of Dog sign. It can be useful to have a gate with a lock that children can’t reach.
· Design or create an area for your cat and a kitty litter tray that is away from guest and living areas. This could be a spare room, the garage or the laundry. The cat will enjoy having a private and safe area, and you will avoid your living areas smelling like a pet store.
· Speak to your local council about rules and regulations and make sure you comply. All dogs and cats must be registered, and some areas now have night curfews on cats.
· If you have a garden and you love the birds that come to visit, seriously think about keeping your cat indoors. Cats will stay happy and healthy, provided they can watch the world through a window, have a selection of toys and a sleeping and toilet area that is secure.
· Be vigilant about flea control, so you don’t end up with an indoor infestation.
· Be sure you regularly “poop scoop” in the garden, for your sake as well as your neighbours.
· If you are considering an apartment or town house, make sure you will be permitted to own a pet, and review all the rules before you buy. And check that there are good local walks and play areas for your dog.
· Encourage your dog to sleep on the same mat in the same area, so the space can be cleaned and refreshed regularly.
· If you are planning renovations, think about how pets will be kept secure during this time and away from construction materials and tools.

“A pet can make a house feel even more like a home, you just need to plan to be both a good neighbour and a good pet owner, while making sure your home’s décor remains fresh and intact!”