Between 36 and 39% of all Vancouver households have a dog, with approximately 10,000 dog owners living in downtown Vancouver. If you live in downtown Vancouver, you also know that most of the homes are smaller apartments.
If you live with a pet in a small apartment, you know just how quickly toys, food, bedding etc. can take over, and if your pet is especially furry, you know just how quickly a small space can be overwhelmed with hair and mud, especially after a rainy walk.
Wondering how to keep your small apartment neat and tidy when you share it with a furry family member?
We’ve got you covered. We’ve outlined our top seven tips for organizing your pet-loving home.
Designate a Pet Zone
In a small living space, it is crucial to designate specific areas for specific purposes. Having a designated pet zone will help you organize your pet supplies. This Dog Feeding Station with Storage Cabinets is just one of the many similar organizational tools available.
Create a Comfortable Space
Dogs want a safe, comfortable space to rest that is connected to the family, but also where they can go to have some downtime. For many families, this means having a comfortable bed inside a crate (that creates a safe feeling for your dog). However, many crates are only functional as a dog crate, and not very stylish. However, there are many options for crates that provide the security of a comfortable den for your dog and also function as a stylish piece of furniture. Add stylish bins and baskets to the top to create a storage area for leashes, toys, treats, and so on!
Install Hooks
Use wall space near your front entrance or inside your front closet to create pet-friendly organization. Store leashes, collars, treat bags, and paw towels. Depending on your space and taste, you could go for something simple yet functional, like this, or a little more funky. Etsy also has many options for personalized leash holders.
Rotate toys
Living in a small space, it is important to have toys to keep your pup occupied. But it is easy for these toys to end up everywhere. A simple bin or basket near your Pet Zone will keep these toys organized and your floor tidy! With a little time and dedication, you can even train your dog to pick up their toys and put them away!
Decrease clutter by rotating the toys they are playing with. Store half of the toys in a bin tucked under your couch or bed, and leave the other half in the basket. Switch them out every few weeks to keep your pup interested!
Washable is the Way
Washable covers help protect your furniture, and washable rugs and pet beds help keep your small home clean.
Have a Paw-cleaning Station
Sharing your home with a dog has so many benefits, including companionship, improved physical and mental health, decreased loneliness, lower blood pressure and stress, to name a few. But it can also bring challenges, like keeping your floors clean (especially during the rainy Vancouver winters!) A simple solution to prevent dirt and water from being tracked through your home is to have a paw-cleaning station right inside your door.
Some dogs’ paws are furry and will collect lots of mud and dirt, while others won’t. Depending on your pup’s paws, there are many options available. Start by having a washable rug in your entrance, and a basket or bin with small paw towels. Most dogs will just need a quick wipe, but for dogs that get extra muddy paws, a paw cleaner is a great option to keep in your basket as well.
Use storage furniture
Furniture that doubles as storage is fantastic for small living spaces. A storage bench near your front entrance is a great place to hide away treats, leashes, collars, paw towels, etc., while an ottoman in your main living space can double as a footrest and a hide-away for extra toys, treats, or even food bins!
Not sure where to begin? Our team of professional home organizers are here to help you create a harmonious, organized living space with your pets.
We offer free phone or video call consultations, or a 30-minute in-person consultation for $50+tax.
Alternatively, you can send us videos of the areas you need help with via WhatsApp at 604-446-3939, and we would be happy to provide you with an estimate. Contact us today.
