Pet Organization: Our Favorite Tips to Help Your Furry Friends Live Their Best Lives
Pets are important parts of many of our lives. But they also come with a lot of responsibility, and So. Much. Stuff. You know what we mean: the toys, treats, food, leashes, medications…. It can be a bit overwhelming at times!
We want to help you make it easier to spend more time enjoying them, and less time fighting the pet supply chaos.
Declutter
We tend to be surprised by how much we actually own when it comes to pet paraphernalia. And when these things start to scatter all over our homes, it can be easier to just buy more rather than use what we have, adding to the chaos.
Collect all pet-related items into one place, from blankets to brushes to vet bills.
Sort everything into categories and take inventory of what you have. Note what you may have too much of, and what needs to be restocked.
Toss anything that is worn out or expired, and donate duplicates or anything that is no longer necessary for the stage your pet is in.
Create Pet Zones
Perhaps your cat’s food bowls ended up in the laundry room only because that’s where they slept as a kitten. Or you find your dog’s leashes looped over every door knob in the house, except the one closest to the front door. Designating permanent places for these items help bring order, and allow you to find their things whenever you need them!
Dedicate a shelf or cabinet for your pet’s food, treats and medications. Use bins or baskets for the smaller items, and pull-out storage for that massive bag of food. (Consider adding a pet-proof latch for the more clever ones!) If possible, feed your pet as close to the area as possible, but not where they’ll be right under foot.
Get creative with toy storage, such as a coffee table with built-in drawers, or an ottoman with a lid. Place most of the toys there, and rotate them between that and a small toy box that your pet can access themselves. At the end of the day, scoop all the toys back into the box, and freshen with new toys from storage once a week or so.
Set up a station near your door (or inside a nearby coat closet) for all outdoor supplies, either hung up on hooks or placed in bins or on floating shelves. Stock them with harnesses and leashes, treats and waste bags, and drop everything back in right when you return home.
Provide a quiet place that your pet can retreat to whenever they want. Choose a spot that’s out of the way but easy for them to access. Add a cozy blanket and a favorite lovey, and make sure it gets regularly cleaned.
Documents & Health Records
While this might be your least-used category, it’s still an important one to have ready at a moment’s notice.
Establish a filing system solely related to your pets, either in a file cabinet with your other documents, or in a folder near the rest of their supplies.
One folder might be enough for pets such as fish, birds or other small critters. For larger animals, consider a folder for each category necessary: medications, pet-sitter information, and vet bills and contact details.
If you have several pets, look into using digital tools to store all of your records. Research different apps, or even just type your records into your phone using your notes app, or scan your documents into your computer.
Bonus Level
Create a grooming station, and keep your pets looking adorable!
Stock up with grooming items such as brushes and combs, shampoos, hair and nail clippers, and dental supplies specific to your pet. (But only as many as you realistically need!)
Place grooming supplies in a clear container or caddy, close to wherever they are brushed or bathed, so they can be easily put back.
Don’t forget to add a lint roller and an old shirt or apron for you!
We understand the importance of our family pets, and we want you to be able to enjoy them to the fullest. We hope these tips help you in organizing your furry friend’s belongings. Reach out to us for more hints, or assistance in organizing human spaces as well!
Cheers!
Your MHS Team
P.S… If you liked this blog post, you’ll love our monthly email newsletter—sign up today!
