Purchasing A New Home As A Pet Owner
Purchasing a home is a significant process that interconnects with every area of your life, including the fact that you are a dog owner. In that regard, you aim to find a home suitable for your needs, and you have the same goal in mind regarding your pet.
Safety
Safety should be a primary concern on your home's wish list, especially if you have an animal that is especially vulnerable. For example, some dogs moonlight as part-time escape artists. Even with extra measures in place, they seem to be able to get out.
In this scenario, a home on a busy street might not be the ideal solution, as there is an increased risk that the pet could intersect with the traffic. You know your pet better than anyone else, so as you walk through the home and the exterior, look for visible risks that could jeopardize the dog's safety.
Accessibility
You also want to ensure the home is easily accessible for your pet. For example, if you have tiny dogs that struggle with steps, purchasing a home with multiple staircases might be something you try to avoid.
The steps could make it harder for the pet to navigate the home safely on its own, which could cause issues. The same is true regarding the yard size. If you have a very large dog, ensure the yard is large enough to accommodate the dog's need to run and be playful. Too small of a yard for a large dog limits its ability to be active and could impact its health.
Durability
It is an unfortunate but true reality — dogs can be hard on a home and its surfaces. In order to save yourself a great deal of money, and stress, look at the surfaces of the home to see if they are pet friendly. For example, larger dogs' nails pressing into the hardwood floor can leave behind scratches and other imperfections.
The darker the wood, the more noticeable these imperfections will be. Over time, these scratches could lead to the need for repairs. As you walk through the home, look around to see just how durable and dog-friendly its surfaces are.
The happier everyone is in the new home, the more satisfying the process. Keep your wish list in mind and remember that an agent will be more than happy to help you search for homes for sale that match your goals. For more information on homes for sale, contact a professional near you.