Moving into a pet-friendly home (and neighborhood) should be considered just as much as your needs. Your pet is adjusting to a lot of new things too and can get stressed out just like we can. Consider these factors before moving with your pet to ensure they will be just as happy as you with their new house!
1. Layout Of Your New Home
- Does your pet do well with stairs?
- Are there hardwood floors that can easily be scratched?
- Do they move well on tile?
- Is there carpet that will get dirty easily?
- Is there room to play?
- Are there lots of windows they can look out of or enjoy the sun shining through?
- Is there room for their pet bed or toy basket anywhere?
2. The Yard
- Is there lots of room to play?
- Is the yard fenced in?
- How easily accessible is the pool if you are not around to watch them?
- What types of plants are in the yard?
Some safe outdoor plants for cats and dogs:
Snapdragons- Pansies
- Petunias
- Impatiens
- Black Eyed Susans
- Magnolia bushes
- Lavender
- Basil
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Raspberries
- Zucchini
- Lettuce/spinach
- Sage
Some dangerous outdoor plants for cats and dogs (that will require veterinary care):
- Ivy
- Daffodils
- Lilies
- Aloe Vera
- Tulips
- Chrysanthemums
- Chinese rubber plants
- Non-ripened tomatoes
- Chives
- Garlic
- Nut trees
If you do have plants that are toxic to your animals growing in your garden, there are ways to keep them away. If you cannot put your fruits, veggies, or herbs in raised garden boxes, sprinkling stuff like paprika, or even coffee, will keep your pets away as well as other unwanted critters. If they like digging in your precious gardens, try investing in a sand box to distract them from digging in the dirt!
Also, make sure you are not putting pesticides on your grass. It is bad for your pets’ paws and it is dangerous if they ever ingest it.
3. What Is The Neighborhood Like?
- Are there sidewalks in the area?
- Is there a dog park close by or parks in general?
- Do lots of other people have pets too they can socialize with?
- What is the traffic like and how close is it your house?
- Where is the closest vet clinic located?
Before even moving into your new home, take your dog for a walk around the neighborhood to get them used to it. Time how long it would take to get from your house to a park and make sure your vet is in a reasonable distance in case of an emergency.
Be patient as you would with your kids. It can take your pet months before they are comfortable and back to being in a routine. The best way to make sure you are moving into a pet-friendly home and neighborhood is to ask your REALTOR® questions beforehand.
