House hunting is going to the dogs – literally – as an increasing number of buyers seek out pet-friendly features during their home search. While a fenced yard is a given for most Dog Moms and Dads (kudos to those whose pups don’t require an enclosure), here are three other aspects to keep in mind when homebuying with a dog.
Dog-Friendly Flooring
Choosing pet-friendly flooring involves more than simply avoiding carpet. Buyers should consider the floor’s resistance to scratches and accidents, ease of cleaning and maintenance, and texture that could impact the comfort your dog experiences when walking or lying down.
Some good options include water- and slip-resistant laminate, tile, hardwood, bamboo, and concrete. Though often considered a poor choice for pet owners, stain- and water-resistant carpet can be a great choice for animals with mobility issues, though it will require higher maintenance to avoid holding smells and stains.
Pro tip: When cleaning wet messes on carpet, use newspapers or old cloths to soak up stains. For solid messes, avoid rags and paper towels as they can push bacteria deeper into the fibers. Instead, try a putty knife or dustpan.
Pet-Safe Paint
Loving the home but hating the wall color? No problem; new paint is always an option! But before you grab your favorite hue, consider a few key factors.
First, be sure to check the label and choose a non-toxic paint. BEHR and Sherwin Williams, for example, offer zero-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint, so shop around until you find a color that suits you.
Next, keep in mind that bright reds, blues, and greens easily show marks, while smudges on darker shades like brown, olive, and charcoal tend to blend in more seamlessly.
Lastly, stick with lower-sheen finishes like semi-gloss or satin, as they help deflect blemishes. Flat paint like eggshell or matte is more difficult to touch up and clean.
Pro tip: Touch-ups are easiest on cream or soft white paints.
Pup-Proof Landscaping
Creating a colorful oasis of a backyard that you and your pet can enjoy is a beautiful idea! Just be mindful of what you’re planting within your dog’s reach. Several plants popular in Central Texas can seriously harm your canine companion, including Sago Palms, Aloe Vera, Lilies, Oleander, English Ivy, Texas Mountain Laurel, Morning Glory, Monstera, Chrysanthemum, Lantana, and Begonia.
Don’t get discouraged, though. Plenty of ways exist to create the ideal ambiance and aesthetic for a backyard paradise.
For starters, pergolas are perfect for creating much-needed shade to escape the Texas rays. To add a little color and drama, try planting a climbing vine like Crossvine or Honeysuckle nearby. For additional shade, consider trees like Crepe Myrtles, Citrus Trees, and Vitex, which thrive in full sun.
Add some texture and interest to the ground with Bermuda or Buffalo Grass and shrubbery or flowering plants, including Texas Sage (drought-hardy), Indian Hawthorne (very fragrant), Coral Bells (available in a range of colors), Pink Muhly Grass (drought-tolerant), and Salvia (low-maintenance and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies).
Pro tip: For a comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants, visit ASPCA.
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The Schrader Group of San Antonio is one of the Top Real Estate teams and the name to look for when trying to buy or sell a home in San Antonio or any of the surrounding areas. With more than 42 years of experience, we can handle every need you may come across, from selling your home, buying your home, or purchasing a new build. Let us be your guide and contact us today!