Pets thrive on routine and familiarity, so the noise, dust, and disruption associated with transforming your space can leave them feeling stressed or uneasy. Luckily, with some thoughtful planning and a few simple steps, you can help keep your pets calm and comfortable during renovations. Whether you’re creating a quiet retreat or maintaining their daily routine, we’ve got you covered with tips to make the process smoother for everyone involved.
Secure the Renovation Area
Securing the renovation area protects your pets as well as your human loved ones. This is especially true if the project can expose your household to dangerous tools or shards of glass, like during window removal or installation.
Use gates, doors, or temporary barriers to keep everyone away from tools, machinery, and hazardous materials. If your pets are especially curious, make sure the barriers are secure and high enough to prevent any sneaky escapes into the construction chaos.
Minimize Exposure to Loud Noises
Noise is one of the biggest stressors for pets during renovations, so taking steps to reduce their exposure can make a big difference in their comfort. Consider setting up a quiet space in your home, like a bedroom or a cozy corner far from the action—you can even purchase noise-canceling headphones for pets!
You can also play some soothing background noise, like soft music or a white noise machine, to help muffle the sounds of drills and hammers. Another option is to schedule outdoor walks or playtime during the noisiest parts of the day.
Consider a Pet Sitter or Daycare
If your renovation plans are shaping up to be especially chaotic, enlisting the help of a pet sitter or signing your furry friend up for daycare can be a game-changer. This way, your pet gets a chance to relax in a stress-free environment or enjoy some extra social time with other animals.
It’s a win-win—they get a mini vacation, and you can focus on the work at hand without worrying about their well-being. Plus, they’ll likely come back home a little tired out from all the excitement, making it easier for everyone to settle in for the evening.
Provide Comforting Items
Familiar items can go a long way in helping pets feel safe during renovations. Think about bringing their favorite blanket, bed, or toys into their quiet space to create a comforting environment. Scents are powerful for animals, so having something with your scent, like a worn t-shirt, can also provide reassurance.
Chew toys or interactive puzzles are great for keeping pets entertained and distracted from the hustle and bustle. A little extra TLC, like cuddles or treats, can remind them that they’re safe despite all the changes.
Consult Your Veterinarian if Needed
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, renovations are just too overwhelming for everyone. If your pet is showing signs of extreme stress, like constant hiding, excessive barking, or unusual behavior, it might be a good idea to chat with your veterinarian.
They can provide helpful advice tailored to your pet’s personality or even recommend calming supplements and medication if necessary. Every pet is different, and having a professional provide advice can help you find a solution that works for your family.
Renovations don’t have to be a stressful experience for your pets; with a little planning, you can easily keep them calm and happy. They’ll appreciate the extra care and attention!