The Best New Home Features for Pets
A recent survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association found that 67 % of U.S. households have a pet. Those households consider their pets to be part of the family. Taking note of this trend, custom home builders have begun to incorporate features that cater to pets and their owner’s needs.
INTERIOR
Bathing Station
Walk-in pet showers that have handheld showerheads installed closer to the ground and a large drain to handle pet hair makes bathing your furry friend a breeze. Built into a utility room and using wet-room design features, clean-up is quick and easy.
Built-In Litter Box
Unsightly litter boxes are a thing of the past. When considering your house design, you can create a litter box space almost anywhere, so the kitty potty is both out-of-sight and out-of-smell range. Inside cabinets, under stairs, and inside closets with built-in pet doors are great spots to hide your kitty’s litter box. A tunnel leading to the garage can also be added if you really want to keep the air clear.
Custom Doors
While practical, baby gates are unattractive and get in the way. When deciding on your home design, consider having custom doors installed in critical locations throughout the house. Half-height, sliding pocket doors or stable doors provide the option of keeping pets where you want them.
Feeding Station
Built-in feeding stations mean there’s no more spilled water or tripping over your pet’s food dish. A sliding drawer designed to hold pet bowls can be tucked in when feeding time is over. Placed at the end of the cabinet with a water spigot to refresh the water bowl makes things easier and cleaner, especially with a designated cabinet for your pet’s favorite food and treats.
Flooring
When picking out the flooring in your custom home, consider both hardness and ease of cleanup. Softwoods are easily scratched, and pet accidents can stain if not cleaned up quickly. Hardwoods like bamboo are a great option. Stone or ceramic tiles are less likely to stain and are easy to clean up. Several luxury vinyl floorings are both scratch and stain-resistant.
Pet Rooms
While designing your home, consider adding a pet room, which can be as simple as creating a sleeping nook or as extensive as allocating a private space for your pet to sleep and play. Your pet can rest and play there when you are out of the house, and it’s a great spot to store toys and food. It’s also space where your pet will feel safe during a thunderstorm.
Storage
You can accumulate a lot of stuff for your pet. When making plans for your home build, be sure to earmark space for all of their things – everything from food to toys, medicine, litter boxes, food, and water bowls. Deep drawers and pullout cabinets can be installed to house your pet’s paraphernalia.
EXTERIOR
Enclosed Patio
For your special indoor cat that enjoys basking in the sun, enclose your patio. Add climbing posts and perches so your cat gets some extra exercise.
Fence Window
Most backyards are fenced, perfect for privacy and keeping your dog safe, but not being able to see what is on the other side of the fence can be maddening for your pet. If you’re putting up a fence, add some plexiglass or chain-link cutouts at your dog’s eye level; it will open up a whole new world for him.
Pools
Most dogs love to take a dip in the pool, but it can be unsafe if they decide to take a lap when no one is around to help them out. A lagoon-style gradual entrance or large steps can be installed when the pool is being added. Other options are a small splash pad, tanning ledge, or shelf where the pup can lie down.
Ramps
Older dogs often have trouble going up and down the stairs. Consider adding a ramp to decks and porches, so older pets don’t have to use the stairs. Ramps can also reduce joint damage and prevent injuries in younger dogs, especially those prone to back problems like dachshunds and basset hounds.
Talk to your custom home builder about the best new home features for pets as you start planning your new home construction. At Passage Island Construction, we specialize in custom home building and can create a wonderful space for you and your family, including the four-legged members!