Planning for a home renovation can seem like a long list of to-dos, from selecting fabrics to meeting with contractors. However, you can take comfort in the fact that you know what’s coming, though your furry friends will be caught off guard when the work begins. If you’re hoping to keep your pet safe and help them avoid excessive anxiety, look to the guide below.

Do:

Sequester them when the work is underway.

Before your contractors arrive, move your pet to a secure location—somewhere they can’t wriggle out of. For dogs, gates might suffice, while cats will need to be in a separate room with the door closed. The loud noises of power tools might frighten your pets, so make sure their designated room is far from the worksite.

Check on your pets regularly.

From splinters to paint fumes, some byproducts of the remodeling process can endanger your pet. Therefore, you’ll want to keep a close watch on them, looking for signs they might need medical attention. If they seem to be limping, refusing to eat, or compulsively licking, head to your vet for a checkup.

Don’t:

Forget about bathroom breaks.

If you have a cat, move their litter to their new location. Show them where it is, and allow them an hour or so to get comfortable with their new bathroom before the crew arrives.

For dogs, set a timer, so you don’t forget to leash them and take them outside. If possible, use a back or side door to stay out of the contractor’s main pathway.

Let them roam free right away.

Once the contractors have left for the day, don’t just open the gate or door and give your pet free rein. Check that no tools, debris, or chemicals were left out, and block off the room where work is still in progress. Your pet can then enjoy their full living space for the night without getting hurt.

If you and your pets are ready for a home renovation, turn to Prowork Pacific Inc. of Honolulu, HI. Serving all of Oahu, this home design company will help you plan the perfect transformation, from the flooring to the lighting. To learn more about their skills, visit the website, or call (808) 384-3388 to set up a consultation.