Our four-legged friends are an important part of the family, and when you’re searching for a new home certain pet-friendly features can make all the difference. Below are some of the most common, unique, and practical amenities to look for in pet-friendly real estate.
Pet Doors
One of the oldest tricks in the book, a pet door allows your pet to get some fresh air without needing you. They come in many sizes, and some can even be installed as a temporary, removable option. We are also seeing more and more “catios” where indoor cats can access a contained outdoor area so they can get some fresh air while staying safe. In Southwest Colorado, there is an abundance of wildlife and it’s not unheard of for an unwelcome visitor to use the dog door. Keep an eye out for signs of wildlife around your property, and be sure to secure the door at night.
Dog Washes
Our rivers, creeks, and lakes are great places to enjoy with your dog. Even with a little rain, snow, or mud, dogs can find themselves in messy situations. Recently, we’ve seen more new construction homes include a dog wash in the mudroom to clean them off before they track mud through the house. These small tiled areas have a handheld shower head and usually a lowered entry so they can get in easily and be washed with less strain on your back. You can add one into an existing home with professional plumbing or create a dedicated dog wash area outside near an existing hose spigot.
Fenced Yard
Serving multiple purposes from privacy, marking parcel boundaries, and keeping unwanted animals out, a fenced yard is a coveted exterior feature. Fences can be built from a variety of materials and are custom-fit to your property. Make sure that your fence is on your property, adheres to neighborhood policies, and is tall enough to keep animals in/out.
HOAs
If you are buying a property within a Homeowners Association, make sure it allows pets, what types and how many, and if there are any breed restrictions. Some limit the quantity and size of pets, so it’s important to be aware of these and similar factors within the neighborhood. On the other hand, some neighborhoods are very pet friendly, with loose or no restrictions. They may even offer specific dog areas and amenities. In Durango, there are many trails and parks where your dog can explore and exercise. Always know the leash rules, follow community guidelines, and remember to clean up after your pets!
Durango is very pet-friendly and has multiple pet supply stores and resources for pet owners. If you are ready to find a new home for you and your furry pals, we’d love the opportunity to help guide you through the Southwest Colorado real estate market. For more information about pet-friendly homes, please contact Max and Deven at The Wells Group.
