Elegance in Windows E-Zign, Pet Friendly Decorating

Helpful Hints for a Pet Friendly Home

Flooring Ideas for Pet Owners
Low maintenance is the key to pet-friendly interior design. Flooring is a great place to start, since this area will receive a lot of wear and tear. Since accidents and mud tracks are inevitable, you'll want something that is easy to clean. Overall, it's best not to install carpeting in a home with furry friends. Carpeting will be a magnet for stains, clumps of animal hair, and pet odors. Low pile carpets like Berber and stain repellent carpets may be an option if carpet is still desired. Hard flooring is a perfect choice for pet owners. Other comparable choices include brick, hardwood, laminate, granite, and ceramic tiles. Not only are they simple to clean, they also add texture and warm color tones. However, some wood surfaces can be easily scratched by pet nails, so a heavy-duty finish is a must.
Dr.Susan Wilner adds that slick floors may be difficult for older dogs due to arthritis, so you may consider non skid area rugs or self adhesive carpet squares. These options are easy to clean.

Climbing Kitties

Dr. Susan Wilner, of Skycrest Animal Clinic, says cats are notorious for wanting to eat string. She says to be careful of cords for blinds as they are enticing to cats. A purrfect solution are cordless blinds and shades. Hunter Douglas is offering a free upgrade of their cordless lifting systems through November 16, 2009.

"Purrfect" Fabric Ideas for Pet Owners
To reduce the appearance of animal hair, choose upholstery colors that are similar to your pet's hair color. Leather is one of the top picks because it is hard-wearing and simple to maintain. As a natural product, any surface wear only adds to the leather's character.

Slip covers are a perfect choice for your home.
Microfiber fabrics such as Ultrasuede are also ideal for pet owners. These suede-like fabrics are resistant to stains, liquids, and wear. Microfibers can be spot cleaned, machine-washed, or dry cleaned. If leather or faux suede isn't your thing, then look to fabrics that are treated to resist stains.

"Let Sleeping Dogs Lie"
If your pet keeps your feet warm while you sleep, then easy to clean bedding is a perfect choice. Any washable fabrics will work as long as they feature a tight weave. Use a water-resistant pad or cover to protect the mattress while adding comfort. Also, covering a comforter or bedspread with a duvet is practical and protects delicate fabrics.

Bathe and groom your pet often.

Keeping your dog or cat clean will help your house stay cleaner, longer. Trimmed nails won't scratch floors or upholstery. Regularly brushing and bathing removes loose hair before it ends up on your floor, your bed, your throw pillows, your curtains. Furniture and rugs will last longer if they don't need to be washed as often. Think of it this way: It's easier to clean your dog than your upholstery, and it's usually more fun

Call now at 847-955-0083 to take advantage of the free upgrade on Hunter Douglas cordless blinds and shades .