Have you ever wondered why so many American households own a pet in today’s day and age? Like someone once said, certain things become easier with animals. For instance, fur companions easily forgive, do not talk back, and are fiercely loyal and loving.
According to Statista, around 66% of the millennial respondents in a survey said that they owned a dog. This figure is even higher in the case of Gen-Z (86%). With largely stressful lifestyles and a hectic schedule, these generations find solace and safety in their four-legged friends.
If you’re looking to buy a property that was likely inhabited by a cat or dog previously, you need to consider certain factors before investing or moving into it. In this article, we will discuss four such factors in detail.
Damage to the Property
Every pet owner, especially those of cats and dogs, knows the scope of damage these fur babies can cause. This is precisely why landlords often charge additional fees for tenants wishing to keep pets.
The extent of damage is the first thing you must be aware of before buying a property with pets.
For instance, dogs cause more property damage due to their hyperactive nature. Some breeds have a greater propensity for this than others to bark, chew, or bite. Listed below are the breeds most likely to cause property damage:
- Chihuahua – They may only appear small, but they have a big bite. Chihuahuas love to bite practically anything, from shoes to toys and furniture
- Mastiffs – These dogs are a large breed, but they are gentle. Whether it’s an English or Tibetan Mastiff, these dogs’ size makes them a threat. They tend to knock things over and may damage furniture, walls, and floors
- Whippet – Though they have a sleek physique, whippets have a highly excitable nature. They usually follow their owners around and jump on furniture. These dogs only feel at peace when they can run around as fast as possible. Out of frustration for unmet needs, they can cause property damage
Now, can cats be destructive? Yes, because they are natural scratchers and climbers. When they are overcome with curiosity or an itch to scratch, even the blinds of walls are no match to them.
If the previous owner kept no designated posts for scratching, be sure that the cat would have sharpened its claws at possible corners. So, before you sign the deal, check the door frames, furniture (if any), walls, and flooring thoroughly.
Pet Hair or Dander
Another scare associated with homes that previously housed pets is dander or shedding hair. According to the American Lung Association, pet dander tends to linger in the air for extended periods.
This is primarily because dander is microscopic and jagged in shape. It easily sticks to objects around the house, including furniture, bedding, and fabrics. Even walls and floors can show signs of pet dander several months after the pet has left the property.
The amount of dander left behind also depends on the previous owner’s cleaning practices. If they did not remove the dander using a HEPA filter vacuum, you will likely find much of it in the property.
A professional air quality testing kit would be required to inspect the property thoroughly. In some cases, clogged air vents are good indicators that a lot of pet dander is still present. It’s best to get a professional inspection done, especially if you or your family are allergic to dander.
If signs are evident, the house needs to be cleaned thoroughly. This can be done using a HEPA filter vacuum, air purifiers, and other dander-removing products.
Odor or Signs of Poor Cleanliness
It should not be surprising that a home with pets will sustain some form of odor. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including the pet’s bodily fluids, urine stains, anal glands, or dander.
For instance, dog odors can linger within a property for several weeks or even months after it has moved out with its owner. If you enter the property and it carries a distinct ‘dog or cat smell,’ it’s time for a thorough cleaning session.
Besides the smell, there could be visible signs of poor cleanliness. Examples would include stains on the carpets, mold or mildew growth, and fleas or other parasites. The issue only gets worse if the previous owner ran a multi-pet household.
You do not want to risk your family’s health. As per Scoop Soldiers, pet waste is a biohazard having microbes like E. coli, Giardia, and Salmonella. Traces may be left behind even after picking up the actual waste. They can be extremely harmful to human health.
If you’re in doubt, contact pet waste and sanitization services for a complete professional cleaning. The experts will first run a meticulous check of the area, remove any traces of pet waste, and leave the space spotless. They will also deodorize the area so that there are no signs of unpleasant smells.
Once this process is well done, you have little to worry about. If you plan to bring pets of your own, simply schedule monthly, quarterly, or bi-annual cleanups to keep your home or yard clean and safe.
Size of the Yard
This factor is particularly of interest to those who already own pets. Even if you don’t have a pet now but plan to adopt in the future, check the existing size of the property’s yard. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) discusses the minimum space requirements for dogs.
It encourages sufficient living and exercise floor space for canines, especially when more than one is living together. The amount of space that a particular breed may need varies, not just based on size or exercise needs, but also on the dog’s temperament.
For example, labradors are known to have a mild temperament. These dogs can do fine without a large yard if their activity needs are met through regular park walks or playtime. Breeds that typically require sufficient play time away from home, as well as a large yard space, are Great Danes, Dobermans, Saint Bernards, and Irish Wolfhounds.
If you find the current yard space too modest, purchasing that property may not be a good idea. Yards are usually spaces where dogs can run about, play, and fulfill their exercise needs. Some breeds, especially those with guard dog instincts, may not be able to adjust to a small yard.
Cats may not require a large yard space because most are not fond of running about and playing too much. Their instincts are different as they enjoy hiding places and high spots.
To make your yard more cat-friendly, consider adding a cozy cat house for shelter, tall potted plants for exploring, and netted fencing to keep them safe while they roam.
Having a pet is undoubtedly a blessing for the owner as well as the animal. This article is not trying to discourage you from investing in a property that previously had dogs or cats.
However, you must be extra careful before buying it or making it your humble abode. If signs of damage are too extreme, do not purchase such a house. In most cases, the issues can be tackled using relevant professional services. Make an informed choice when it comes to your new home.
