Making renovations to your home is something that most homeowners plan for, especially if they need to update certain areas of the home or plan on selling in the near future. But while most are solely focused on how to navigate daily life as those changes are being made, dog owners are worried about how renovations might negatively affect their pups. If you’re concerned about your furry friend’s safety and well-being during renovations, let’s look at a few tips on keeping your pup safe and happy during a home renovation project.
Carve Out a Safe Space for Them
If you have a relatively big house and the renovations aren’t too close to where your dog tends to spend time, see if you can carve out a safe space for them where they’re surrounded by all of their favorite things. Give them access to a comfortable bed, the toys they love the most, and even a few new treats they can enjoy. This way, they won’t feel as anxious when renovations occur. Remember there will be many new people entering your home depending on the project. A normally calm dog may become anxious and become aggressive or even bite a new person. If your dog bites someone, you will be liable for their injuries. It’s best to give your dog their own space.
Ask in Advance About Loud Sounds and Any Chemicals Being Used
Your pup’s safety is your highest priority, which is why you don’t want the risk of having them deal with long-term stress and anxiety or exposing them to harmful chemicals. Ask the contractors doing your renovations how loud things are going to be and if they’re going to be using any products that could be toxic to pets. This will inform whether or not you keep your dog in the house.
Set Up Barriers to Prevent Your Pup from Accessing Certain Areas of the Home
If your dog is allowed to stay home, you don’t accidentally want them wandering into an area where they could get hit by falling debris, sharp objects, or even tools that are being used to do the renovations. Invest in some high-quality barriers that you can put in open doorways so that they’re not tempted to go wandering where they’re not supposed to. Some even recommend having a special area in a sunroom or in the backyard where pets can remain during renovations. Just make sure that it isn’t too hot, that they’re supervised, and that they have access to everything they need.
Figure Out Pet Care If You Know You’ll Be Out of the House
Speaking of supervision, you likely won’t be able to be with your pup all day. If you have friends, family, or neighbors who love your dog, see if they’d be willing to watch them temporarily during the hours you’re away at work. If that’s not possible, you can always see if you can find a dog sitter in your area or a nearby doggy daycare that will be able to make sure they’re safe when you’re away.
Also Read: Feng Shui for Dogs: Creating a Positive Environment for Your Pet
Find Ways to Have Fun with Your Pet Outside
Renovations are often stressful for pets. Even if they can manage inside, getting them out where they don’t have to deal with the noise and the stress is beneficial to their well-being. Make it a priority to get your pup out more during renovations. You can play with them outside, take them on longer walks, or even go on special trips during the days when you don’t have to work!
Renovations are rarely quiet projects, and all of the banging and discussions being had by strangers in your home can make your pup uneasy. If you know renovations are in the near future, use the helpful tips above to keep your pup safe and happy no matter the project.
