Throughout our lives, there are many moments when our homes need to change and adapt; getting married and moving in with a partner, having kids, and downsizing as the kids leave home.
But there’s one big change that doesn’t seem to get talked about enough, and that’s when you get a pet. A pet can bring an incredible amount of joy and companionship to your life, but they can also have a pretty big impact on your home.
Here’s how owning a pet can change your home:
Make changes to your décor
If you’re not a pet owner, your home décor is probably geared towards your personal taste. But when you bring a pet into your home, you’ll likely have to make some changes to accommodate them.
For example, you might need to invest in pet-friendly furniture and fabrics, or create a designated area for your pet to sleep and play. You might also need to child-proof your home to make it safe for your pet. Otherwise, you might be facing some nasty vet bills in you don’t have an appropriate insurance policy for pets.
Lose storage space
Pets need a lot of stuff – food, toys, bedding, and more. This can take up a lot of space in your home, especially if you live in a small space. You might need to get rid of some of your furniture or belongings to make room for your pet’s things.
Some items can be multipurpose; some people have built fish tanks that also act as coffee tables or end tables. If you’re creative, you can find ways to incorporate your pet’s enclosure into your home’s design.
This, of course, can depend on the size of your pet’s enclosure. A dog’s crate might be able to double as a nightstand, but a jumping spider’s terrarium will need to be placed on a shelf or similar.
Change your cleaning routine
Pets can be messy, so you might need to change your cleaning routine to accommodate them. You might need to vacuum and sweep more often, and you might need to invest in pet-friendly cleaning products like this pet vacuum cleaner to help you in your everyday cleaning routine.
You might also need to change your laundry routine. Some pets shed a lot, so you might need to wash your bedding and clothing more often. You might also need to invest in lint rollers and pet hair removal tools.
Spend more time at home
Pets need exercise, so you might find yourself spending more time at home to walk or play with your pet. This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your lifestyle. If you’re someone who likes to go out a lot, you might need to make some adjustments to your schedule.
But if you’re someone who likes to stay at home, having a pet can be a great way to be outside and get some exercise. Pets can also be a great way to meet new people. If you walk your dog in your neighborhood or at the park, you’ll likely meet other pet owners who can become friends.
Pets can have a big impact on your home, but they can also bring a lot of joy to your life. If you’re thinking about getting a pet, make sure you’re prepared for the changes that come with pet ownership.