Pets bring us unconditional love and joy. This year a puppy joined my family, so I know the joy—and endless accessories—that come with the pitter-patter of little feet. But whether your pet is new to your family or a well-established member of the pack, you can keep pet clutter under control and make life calmer for everyone.
Create well organized, functional pet zones to keep you and your pet calm—and know I’m always here to help!
1. Gather your pet supplies.
Go around your home and gather all your pet supplies in one place. This is your staging area.
2. Sort everything into categories.
Toys
Food
Grooming
Health
Walks
Travel
Clothing
3. Cull worn, broken and duplicate Items.
Does the squeaker just sigh? Has the cat toy lost its feathers? If it’s worn or broken, throw it away. If you have extras in good condition, consider giving them to a friend with a pet or donating to a local animal shelter.
4. Create Pet Zones.
Life with pets is more predictable when you put your gear where it’s needed. Here are some useful zones you can set up with the gear you’ve already categorized:
Toys
Keep playful pets happy with a toy station in their favorite room(s). An open bin or basket makes it easier for them to choose something they want.
Food
Where does your pet dine? In the kitchen? Keep food and treats nearby.
For kibble, ditch the bag and store your food nearby in an airtight container, such as a metal bin or mini trash can. Include a measuring scoop for accuracy and easy access.
Extra food can be stored in a closet or pantry. For raw food, designate an area of the freezer or fridge.
Put a mat under food and water dishes for less mess and easier cleanup.
Store treats on the counter in glass jars or containers for attractive, easy access.
Front Door
Keep additional treats in a container by the front door.
Use hooks for hanging leashes, harnesses and/or a go-bag.
Store doggy bags in your go-bag or hook them to your leash.
If you leave through more than one door, consider setting up a second station for convenient access to your supplies.
Kittie's Toilette
Keep things clean for your kitty with a litter box in the bathroom or laundry.
Additional litter can be kept in an airtight container nearby.
Grooming
Store all your pet grooming supplies (shampoo, brushes, nail clippers, etc.) in one place. A caddy is handy, especially if you prefer to groom your pet in the backyard.
Health & Wellness
Create a shelf or bin for your pet’s flea and tick medications, eye drops, prescriptions and the dreaded cone so you always know where they are.
Keep pet documents (license, vet records, insurance, etc.) all in one file or, if you prefer to go paperless, scan them and put them in one file folder on your computer backed up to the cloud.
Clothing & Costumes
Does Fido have a dashing winter coat? Store pet outerwear near the front door, when seasonally appropriate and if your pet wears costumes for Halloween...store them with yours!
Carriers & Travel Accessories
For on-the-go pets, keep their spare blanket, leash, and bowls packed in their carrier in the closet or where you keep your suitcases so they're ready-to-go when overnight adventure calls.
5. Keep it Simple
It doesn’t take a lot of extra work to keep your pet supplies organized—just a little thought about where things belong. And it keeps life so much calmer—for us and for your beloved fur baby.
Best,
