While we cherish our pets and want them to live their best lives, sometimes, there’s only so much we can give, especially when you own a tiny home. Small spaces are already challenging for co-habitating humans, and they can be more complicated when you have a dog or cat walking around. However, there are ways to modify a tiny home so that pets and owners can thrive.
Maximize The Space
There’s only so much real estate to work with in a tiny home, but that shouldn’t stop you from allowing your pet to call the house home.
You may just need to get more creative and think outside the box or, sometimes, think vertically. If you have a smaller dog that tends to climb up on furniture anyway, consider creating a vertical space that can be a perch for your pup. You can also purchase stackable storage boxes and place a blanket on the top. Putting this up against the window means that your dog can rest and view the world outside. Then, you can put your belongings or the pet’s toys into the storage containers, and you’ll cut down on clutter around the home.
Create a similar setup for cats by building slabs of wood into the wall that go up towards the ceiling, which forms a cat tree of sorts. Then your cats can get their exercise and stay entertained as they climb up and down throughout the day.
You might also think of ways you can use the same part of your house to benefit both you and your dog. For example, if you want to bathe a larger dog, then you can install a wide walk-in shower. That way, you and your pet can both get clean when necessary.
If you have a cat, creativity with the litter box may be key. You can try a couple of things, including putting the litter box next to the toilet, in a bathroom cabinet, or near the laundry hamper.
There are other home improvement projects that you can implement as well, so both you and your pet get the most out of your space. Decluttering your home can ensure that you can make the most of the space that you have. You can then create a happy space for you and your pet, complete with walls painted in a soothing color, to put both of you at ease. However you decide to reinvent your space, be sure to set a budget and identify your priorities so the project remains within your means.
Modify The Home
You may need to make some improvements or upgrades around the house to satisfy you and your pet in this unique situation. One common issue in a tiny home is that it can be cramped, and all that body heat can make for an uncomfortable situation, so consider updates to keep your pets cool. You can invest in a smart air conditioner and preset it so it stays on throughout the day for your pet while you’re at work. If that won’t work, install a ceiling fan to circulate the air and keep the windows open wide enough to allow some airflow.
One of the more underutilized sections in the home is the “toe kick” area under your cabinets, where there is empty space. You can modify that area by adding a little drawer that retracts when you apply pressure with your foot. Homeowners can use this small space to store water and food dishes so they don’t make a mess on the floor. You could also use that hidden area for pet toys or blankets.
Make Room Outdoors
When you’ve done everything you can indoors, the next step is to look at how you can improve the exterior of your home for you and your pet. The perk of having a smaller house is that sometimes the surrounding yard is larger by comparison, and you should make it hospitable to your pet. If your home supports the option, consider adding a pet door so your furry friend can easily get in and out.
Dogs and other animals that like to move around will have trouble being cooped up in a property of any size, and it can be more challenging in a tiny house, so allow them outside whenever you can. That way, they can get all the energy out of their system so they aren’t so worked up when they return inside. Additionally, when you’re home, try to take your pooch on walks and visits to the local dog park so they can enjoy time outdoors.
If you don’t have the luxury of a larger yard, see what you can do about creating a faux backyard so your pet can get some fresh air throughout the day. This could be a small area you have near your front porch or maybe a slip along the side of your home. Whatever you do outside, you must have a sturdy and dependable fence around the perimeter so you can keep your pet safe. When that’s not possible, then at least provide your pup with a long leash so they can run without falling into danger.
These are just a few handy tips that can make your tiny home appear much larger for your and your beloved pet. Make an effort to help your pet feel loved, and they’ll repay the favor for years to come.