Image Credit: Well Pet Coach
Building a new home or moving into one is stressful enough on its own, but that can be exacerbated when you have pets to consider as well. As a pet owner and animal lover, there are some things you should take into account when looking at homes that other people don't have to. Here are four new home traits people living with critters need to consider.
1. A Fence
A fenced-in backyard is in many cases a must when you have a pet dog. If your dog is very well-behaved, you might not need one, but most dog owners are best served by having a fence. Make sure that any existing fence is safe and secure. Are there any areas where the fence is broken or needs repair? Could your dog jump the fence anywhere or dig under it?
2. No Toxic Substances
Make sure any substances that might be toxic to your pet are removed from the property before you move in. This goes beyond your typical antifreeze and houseplants that likely have been taken out already. For example, lead in water can lead to lead poisoning in animals as well as people, particularly young animals. Exposure to asbestos can cause the deadly cancer mesothelioma in humans as well as in pets. Even while outdoors, pets can be exposed to asbestos from nearby construction projects. So it's definitely something to watch out for during inspections.
3. Nearby Amenities
Nearby amenities to the new home can be an important consideration for pet owners as well. For example, is there a vet nearby that is experienced in and willing to treat birds or other exotic pets you may have? Is there a dog park where you can exercise your dog? Would you feel safe walking your dog or letting your cat outside in this neighborhood? A real estate agent, like the professionals at RE/MAX Associates of Dallas, can be instrumental in finding homes that meet all of your and your pets' needs.
4. The Right Spaces
For example, what good places are there in the home to put a bunch of cat towers, or is there enough space to build tunnels of hamster tubes around the house? Does the home have enough space for your large dogs? Where will your dogs or cats sleep? It's important to measure to make sure your pet's things will fit in the new home and that your animals will be comfortable in it as much as you will.
When keeping the right things in mind, you should be able to find a new home that will meet the needs of your pets as well as your own. Looking for these four traits in a home will make living with your critters that much better.
