Renovations are exciting for homeowners but can be stressful and potentially dangerous for pets. From loud noises and unfamiliar visitors to scattered nails and toxic materials, many hazards can endanger your furry friend during home renovations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through ways to protect your pet during a home renovation, including preparing them for the changes and managing their health and comfort during the project.
The Risks of Home Renovation for Pets
“Renovation is stressful for humans who fully understand what the turmoil is all about. Imagine what it’s like for a pet that has no idea why her world is suddenly being turned upside down.”
— Karen Halligan, veterinarian and author of Doc Halligan’s What Every Pet Owner Should Know
Home renovations open the door to various and potentially unexpected risks to pets. The sudden changes in their environment, unfamiliar people coming and going, and the presence of harmful materials can all impact your pet’s well-being.
A home renovation may expose your pet to physical dangers such as nails, wood splinters, or sharp tools left around the work area. They might also come into contact with toxic substances like paint fumes, cleaning chemicals, or dust from construction materials. The constant noise from power tools and construction work can cause stress and anxiety in pets, potentially leading to behavioral changes or health issues.
Preparing Your Pet for the Renovation Process
Before the renovation begins, prepare your pet for the upcoming changes to help reduce their stress. Here are some things you can do:
Set Up a Safe Zone for Your Pet
Designate a specific area of your home for your pet to retreat from the construction chaos. This safe zone—which should be away from the renovation area and free from potential danger—will help keep pets away from sawdust, power equipment, and other hazards. Include familiar items such as your pet’s bed, toys, and food and water bowls to give them comfort and consistency.
Keep Your Pet’s Routine
Pets thrive on routine, so keep their schedule as normal as possible to help reduce stress during the renovation. Try to keep meal times, walks, and playtime consistent, even if you need to adjust the location due to construction.
Gradually Acclimate
In addition to following routines, it can be beneficial to gradually acclimate your pet to the sounds and sights of construction. Start by exposing them to mild construction noises from a distance and slowly increase their exposure as they become more comfortable. This can help mitigate the shock and stress they might experience once the full renovation begins.
Communicating With Your Home Renovation Team
Open communication with your renovation team is another important way to advocate for your pet’s safety during the project. Consider implementing the following communication strategies during a home renovation:
Discuss Pet Safety With Your Contractor
Before the renovation begins, have a detailed conversation with your contractor about your pet’s presence in the home. Discuss any specific concerns you have and ask about their experience working in homes with pets. Make sure they are willing to take precautions to keep your pet safe, such as keeping doors and windows closed to prevent escapes.
Introduce Your Pet to the Crew
If possible, introduce your pet to the renovation crew in a controlled, positive manner. This can help reduce your pet’s anxiety around strangers in the home and make the crew more mindful of your pet’s presence.
Michael Kennedy, a partner in Latipac Builders in Newfield, NY, suggests having your pet befriend the crew. For example, if Kennedy is working a job where there will be dogs on-site, he encourages his colleagues to greet the dog with owner-approved dog treats and even let their new four-legged friends get a few licks in. Just keep in mind that contractors are not pet-sitters.
Conduct Daily Briefings
Set up a routine of daily briefings with your renovation team to create ongoing opportunities to address any new concerns about your pet during the project. These briefings don’t need to be lengthy, but you can use them to cover updates and reaffirm existing protocols to protect your pet.
Protecting Your Pet From Physical Hazards at Home
During a renovation, many physical hazards can threaten your pet’s safety. Take the following proactive steps to protect your fur baby:
Secure Dangerous Materials and Tools
Ask your renovation team to securely store all tools, materials, and potentially dangerous items when not in use. This includes keeping sharp objects, electrical cords, and small items your pet could swallow out of your pet’s reach. At the end of each workday, confirm that the crew has cleaned the area and removed or secured any hazards.
Safeguard Against Toxic Substances
Be aware of any toxic substances used during the renovation, such as paints, solvents, or cleaning products. You should prevent your pet from accessing areas where the crew has recently used these substances, and request that the crew store them safely. You should also maintain good ventilation in your home to protect your pet from harmful fumes.
If your home was built before 1978, conduct tests for lead before performing major renovations. Ingesting and inhaling lead paint can cause health issues in pets—such as tremors, ataxia (poor muscle coordination), and other neurological deficits—just as in humans.
Pet-Proof Renovated Areas
Once renovations are complete in certain areas of your home, assess them from a pet-proofing perspective. Cover all outlets, pad any sharp edges, and remove toxic plants or materials. This step will help maintain a safe environment for your pet throughout the renovation, especially if they’re exploring parts of your home they don’t usually visit.
Managing Noise and Stress for Your Pet
Construction noise can be particularly stressful for pets with sensitive hearing who may not understand the source of the clanging. Here are some ways you can mitigate renovation noise-induced stress for your pet:
Create Sound Barriers
Use temporary sound barriers—such as heavy curtains, room dividers, or insulating foam boards—around the renovation area to reduce the noise that reaches your pet’s safe zone and alleviate their fear.
Provide Comfort and Distractions
Offer your pet plenty of distractions during the renovation. This could include new toys, puzzle feeders, or extra playtime outside the house. There are even social media channels for dogs to watch. Spending quality time with your pet can also help assuage their anxiety and reassure them during this disruptive period.
Reduce Exposure to Loud Construction Noises
If possible, schedule the noisiest work when your pet is out of the house or in their safe zone. Consider using white noise machines or playing calming music to help mask construction sounds. For pets that are particularly sensitive to noise, ask your veterinarian about potential antianxiety treatments or techniques.
Considering Alternative Arrangements for Your Pets During a Home Renovation
In some cases, it may be best to arrange for your pet to stay elsewhere during the renovation, especially if the work is extensive or your pet is especially sensitive.
Temporary Relocation Options for Your Pet
Consider having your pet stay with a trusted friend or family member during the renovation. This can provide a calm, stable environment away from the construction chaos. If this isn’t possible, look into pet-friendly hotels or boarding facilities that can accommodate your pet for the project’s duration.
Pet-Sitting and Day Care Services
Pet-sitting services or doggie daycare are excellent short-term solutions during a home renovation. These services can give your pet attention, exercise, and a break from renovation stress during the day, allowing them to return to a quiet home in the evening.
Assessing Long-Term Impacts
If you expect your renovation project to last several months, evaluate the long-term impacts on your pet. If you’re worried, take periodic breaks, such as weekend stays at a quiet location. This can help you both decompress from the ongoing stress.
Prioritizing Your Pet’s Health During Renovation
Monitoring your pet’s health throughout the renovation can help you catch any potential issues early. Here are some ways to do this:
Regular Health Checkups
Schedule a checkup with your veterinarian before the renovation begins to make sure your pet is healthy. During the renovation, watch for changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, or bathroom habits that could signify health concerns.
Monitor for Signs of Stress or Illness
Look out for signs of stress or illness in your pet, such as excessive panting, drooling, pacing, or changes in eating habits. If you notice any concerning symptoms, consult with your vet as soon as possible.
Keep a Health Journal
Consider taking notes in a pet health journal during the renovation. Document daily observations, including eating, sleeping, and behavioral patterns. This can serve as a great reference for any appointments with your vet.
Post-Renovation Pet Care
Once the renovation is complete, you’ll need to help your pet adjust to the changes in their environment. Consider the following tips:
Address Any Behavioral Changes
Some pets may exhibit behavioral changes after a renovation due to stress or unfamiliar modifications to their home. Be patient and provide extra attention and reassurance. If these behavioral issues persist, ask a professional pet behaviorist or your vet for guidance.
Establish New Routines
After the renovations are complete, establish new routines that accommodate the changes to your home. This can include establishing new feeding spots, areas for play, or even updated access to areas within the house. These new routines will help your pet adapt more quickly and comfortably to their newly renovated living space.
Reintroduce Your Pet to the Renovated Space
Gradually reintroduce your pet to your home’s renovated areas. Allow them to explore at their own pace, under supervision. Ensure that no renovation materials and tools remain and that the area is safe for your pet.