Moving into a newly built home is an exciting milestone filled with endless possibilities, especially for pet lovers! Whether you are a current pet owner or planning to make a new pet part of your life, ensure your A&G Residential home is the perfect spot for your four-legged friend. Pets quickly become beloved family members, and making your home pet-friendly from the start will make their transition (and yours!) the cat’s meow.

Turning your A&G Residential home into a pet-friendly paradise is as easy as 1-2-3!

Step 1: Pet-Proof Your New Home: Pet-proofing is an essential first step when moving into a home that will contain pets.

• Tuck Harmful Substances Away: Moving in often means cleaning, painting, and furniture assembly. Store hazardous items (cleaning supplies, paints, furniture glue) in closed cabinets or on high shelves. As you unpack, put medications away promptly to prevent a curious pet from swallowing something it shouldn’t. Did you know that some common household plants are toxic to animals? A quick internet search will tell you which plants should be showcased out of reach.
• Secure Wires, Cords, and Outlets: The increase of smart home technology has created an increase in exposed cords and charging cables, which can be dangerous for pets. Use cord concealers or protective covers to prevent chewing hazards. Additionally, make sure electrical outlets are secured with childproof covers to keep inquisitive pets safe. This is especially important for puppies or kittens who may be teething.
• Make Floors Pet-Safe: If you’re still finalizing finishes in your new home, opt for pet-friendly flooring such as luxury vinyl planking. LVP is more resistant to scratches and easier to clean compared to carpet or softwood. Throw rugs can also provide traction for pets while protecting new floors from accidents.
• Don’t Forget to Check Your Yard: Consider a fence for your new yard or, if it’s already been installed, check your fence for gaps where your pet could escape. For added peace of mind, add a dig guard to prevent your pet from burrowing under the fence.

Step 2: Set Up a Pet-Perfect Living Space! Creating a designated space for your pet can ease their transition into your new home.

• Bedtime Bliss! Set up a cozy, comfortable space for your pet to sleep. For dogs, consider a quiet corner in the living room or a designated crate. For cats, a soft, elevated bed can serve as a safe retreat. Your designated pet area should be away from high-traffic zones to help your pet feel secure.
• Dining Delight! Choose a dedicated spot for food and water bowls to help your pet develop a routine. Non-slip, spill-proof mats can protect your new floors from water or food spills. Have more than one pet? Consider setting up separate feeding areas to prevent conflicts.
• Pet Supply Storage: Keep your pet’s supplies organized with a cute storage bin tucked into your home’s mudroom or entryway. Food, treats, toys, grooming tools, and leashes will all be easy-to-find when they are placed in a home within your home.
• Potty Train Like a Pro! For those welcoming a new puppy, consider an indoor potty solution such as puppy pads or an artificial grass pad. This will discourage pets who can’t quite wait to go outside from soiling new carpets.

Step 3: Health, Comfort, and Well-Being are all essential in enhancing your pet’s life.

• Provide Ample Play Space: Pets need room to move, play, and exercise. Arrange furniture to allow for open spaces where your pets can play freely. Cats love vertical spaces such as wall-mounted shelves or cat trees, while dogs may enjoy a spacious corner for playtime and relaxation.
• Install Pet Doors or Gates: Consider adding a pet door to allow your dog or cat access to a fenced yard. Pet gates are a great option to establish indoor boundaries with your pets and to keep guest rooms dander-free.
• Choose Pet-Friendly Furniture: Pet-friendly fabrics on furniture are a must for pet owners, from couches to beds. Performance fabrics, microfiber, or leather are all terrific options as they resist stains and are easy to clean. Another lifesaver? Washable slipcovers!
• Boost Your Home’s Air Quality: Pets bring so much joy to a home, but they also bring dander and odors. Invest in a high-quality air purifier to keep your home’s air quality at its best. Regularly clean air vents and replace HVAC filters to reduce allergens and pet hair accumulation.

Are you a soon-to-be new pet owner? Nearly 90% of first-time homeowners prioritize getting a dog or cat shortly after setting down roots. If you’re considering a new pet for your home, consider a few factors as you find a fur-ever friend.

• Think about your Lifestyle: If you travel frequently or have an active life outside of your home, you may opt for a pet that needs less attention, such as a fish or iguana. Reptiles are also great pets for those with allergies to fur.
• Time Commitment: Pets require time, training, and attention (especially puppies and kittens). Evaluate how much time you can realistically dedicate to a pet’s needs before making a decision. Senior pets make great companions while requiring less one-on-one time.
• Space Considerations: Choose a pet whose size works with your new space. Simply put: the larger the pet, the more room it will need to live a happy, healthy life.
• Allergies: Allow each family member to visit with a friend’s dogs or cats to check for allergic reactions. It is essential to check this first, before falling in love with a pet that may not be a perfect match.
• Adopt! Rescuing a pet from a shelter is an amazing experience, as many simply want a loving forever home. If you prefer a specific breed, check with local rescues, as there are typically local, breed-focused groups.

Whether bringing an existing or new pet into your A&G Residential home, it is important to give them time to adjust to their surroundings at their own pace. This may mean limiting their space, at first, before gradually opening their access to the rest of your home. To encourage a successful transition:

• Establish (or maintain) a familiar routine.

• Socialize your pet with new neighbors gradually.
• Establish and visit your new vet prior to a needed appointment so that your pet becomes familiar with the facility.

Moving into a newly built home is an exciting milestone that is made even better when shared with a four-legged friend. Creating a pet-friendly home ensures a smooth transition for your menagerie. A&G Residential has a variety of beautiful floor plans that offer plenty of space for both people and pets.

Ready to find a newly built furever home? Reach out to the team at A&R Residential today to get started!