Dorothy had Toto, Fraiser had Eddie, and the Griffin’s have Brian as their inseparable four-legged friend. If you’re a pet owner, you can easily identify with our favorite characters and their love for their dogs. However, much like children, when it comes to making home improvements, pets aren’t always the best to have around construction.

Last year, we wrote a post on activities to keep your kids busy while you remodel, and we realized similar tips are equally important for your pets. Some pets just want to be helpful, but you can actually be putting them and yourself in harm’s way by letting them hang around. Consider the following suggestions before you begin your next project.

Pet Sitters If there is anyone who is going to love your pet as much as you, it will be a professional pet sitter. Demand for pet sitters is up, and there are several local companies in the Dallas/Fort Worth area that you can choose from. Before you book, do your research. Check review sites and ask friends for recommendations.  If you would rather not deal with the price tags, ask a friend or neighbor if they can fill the role.  Even if it’s only a few hours, leaving your dog in the hands of someone else can be nerve wracking, so choose carefully. However, you might be surprised how fast you can get things done with the pets and kids away. Bad for Your Health – Bad for Theirs

The products and chemicals used in remodeling projects are not meant to be consumed. Opening windows for ventilation or wearing a mask is not a suggestion, it’s a necessity. However, there isn’t much you can do to keep your pets from breathing in harmful chemicals if you let them roam around. Put them outside or in another area of the house while you work. If renovations are specific to your pet, try to get their measurements or foot prints before you begin. The last thing you’ll need is a trip to the vet’s office after investing in a new bathroom remodel.

Your Pet isn’t That Friendly

Many people think the world of their pets, but there’s no guarantee that everyone else will. If you’re using a contractor, think of the mailman and guard dog relationship. Dogs are notorious for their curiosity, and if you’re bringing someone new into their territory – they have to know who it is. You can’t fully predict how your pet will react to any stranger. You also can’t be sure how comfortable the contractor will be with having a pet around. Avoid any altercations and any subsequent delays in the project by keeping your dog away from the work site. This is in the best interest of everyone involved.

Remodeling your home will affect your pets just as much as it does you. You don’t need to ask for their permission, but it is your job to keep them safe – no matter how curious they are. If we had a ‘Bring Your Pet to Work Day’ at Statewide, we still wouldn’t take them to a work site – and neither should you. It’s a safety issue we want to avoid so we can deliver our services accident free. Know a pet owner that can benefit from this information? Share this article and be sure to contact us for a complimentary quote on your next home remodeling project!