Many people think of their pets as children, and some refer to them as their “babies” or “fur children.” Scientists have even shown that when people see their dog, it elicits the same response in the brain as seeing their children. So it’s really no surprise that many house hunting dog owners shop with their canines in mind.
If you’re a dog owner in the process of purchasing a new home, there are 3 considerations that ensure you and your dog are happy and safe in your new home.
#1 Location Considerations – Greater Lansing Michigan
When mulling over where to move, check county and city code restrictions on areas you have in mind. Many cities have pet restrictions, and they can order you to find another home for your pet if you choose to live there. Similarly, you should read over homeowner association (HOA) documents for any neighborhood you’re considering. Some HOAs don’t allow pets of any kind, while others restrict types of pets, breeds, and sizes. Many HOAs strictly enforce their bylaws, and a violation can result in severe penalties.
Drive around the neighborhood to determine if it’s pet friendly. Look for people walking their dogs or community receptacles for waste deposits. You should also pay attention to street traffic. Even the most well behaved dogs may bolt when the front door is opened, so it’s best to avoid busy streets. Once you’ve selected an area to which you’d like to move, ask your Dewitt real estate agent and potential neighbors for suggestions for pet services, such as a pet supply store, veterinary clinic, pet sitter, groomer, and dog park such as Padgett Park near downtown.
#2 Home Considerations
As a pet owner, you should carefully consider certain aspects of a home. For example, some dog owners refuse to purchase homes with carpeting. Experts agree that wood or ceramic floors are ideal for dogs. Other pet owners have different demands, such as an outdoor faucet to bathe their dogs or a home with a fenced-in backyard. If a fence is on your list, inspect it to ensure it’s in good shape, gated with latches, and high enough so that your dog can’t jump over it. If the home is lacking a fence, determine the cost of adding one to the home.
The home’s layout is equally as important as it’s features. Just like humans can have difficulty with stairs as they get older, aging pets may not be able to master stairs. As such, many dog owners select a single-story home. You may also need ample closet space for pet supplies or an additional room for you dog. If your dog is high-energy or loves to play around in the house, a more confined layout may not be ideal. On the flipside, if you keep your pets confined to certain rooms, an open layout may not be ideal.
#3 Considerations for Settling In
A big part of moving to Mid – Michigan with a dog involves helping him or her acclimate to the new home. This starts before you actually move. The first step is to prepare your dog. For example, you may take her to the new neighborhood for walks before the move-in day or avoid isolating her while packing. On moving day, consider boarding your dog or leaving her with a trusted friend or family member on the day of the move to avoid the stress and chaos.
Once the movers have left the new home, give your dog a tour of the new home. As you both settle in, try to stick with your established routine for walks, feeding, and other activities, which will help your dog adjust. Set up a special area in the home for your dog for her food and water bowls, bed, crate, and other items. If possible, spend a few extra days at home with your dog after the move before you return to work.
Every person has distinctive wants in a home, and being a dog owner can add to those unique requirements. You want to make sure your dog is welcomed and safe in the new neighborhood and home. You also want to ensure your dog becomes well acclimated to her new home. Finding the perfect home for you and your dog and settling in is possible with a little planning and a lot of patience.
