A home remodel can be exciting for you ,but it might feel confusing or even dangerous for your pets. Loud tools, strange people in the house, fumes, and debris all create unfamiliar territory. Whether you have a curious puppy, a senior cat, or an adventurous ferret, protecting them during construction should be a top priority.

Here’s a simple guide to keeping your furry family members calm, safe, and healthy throughout your remodel.

1. Set Up a Pet-Safe Room

Before work begins, choose a separate room where your pets can relax away from noise and traffic.

Pet-safe room checklist:

• Food and water bowls
• Comfortable bed or crate
• Favorite toys
• Litter box (if needed)
• White noise (fan, TV, or calming music)

If possible, keep this door closed and post a note letting workers know to stay out.

2. Keep Tools, Materials, and Debris Out of Reach

Construction sites contain hazards such as:

• Nails, screws, and blades
• Sawdust and sharp wood fragments
• Electrical cords
• Wet paint or stains
• Toxic glues and adhesives

Even the calmest pets can get curious. Be sure contractors sweep up debris daily and store tools safely when not in use.

3. Reduce Stress From Loud Noises

Power tools and hammering can trigger anxiety in pets, especially dogs and cats.

Help reduce stress by:

• Using calming pheromone diffusers (like Feliway or Adaptil)
• Playing relaxing music or pet-friendly TV
• Investing in sound-dampening blankets around the pet room

If your pet is highly anxious, speak with your vet about temporary anti-anxiety options.

4. Watch for Air Quality Risks

Dust, fumes, and airborne particles can harm pets, especially those with respiratory issues, birds, or small animals like rats or rabbits.

Protect them by:

• Closing off air ducts and vents in construction zones
• Using air purifiers around the home
• Keeping windows open if weather allows
• Asking your contractor to use low-VOC paints and finishes

5. Maintain Routines

Pets feel safest when life is predictable. If possible:

• Keep feeding times the same
• Stick to regular walks, playtime, and outdoor exercise
• Provide extra attention to reassure them

The stability will help lower anxiety levels during construction.

6. Consider Temporary Relocation (if Needed)

If your project is large or includes heavy demolition, extensive dust, or long stretches of noise, it may be better to temporarily move your pet.

Great options include:

• Family or friends’ homes
• Pet daycare facilities
• Boarding services
• Professional in-home pet sitters

This is especially recommended for birds, reptiles, elderly pets, or anxious animals.

7. Communicate With Your Contractor

Let your remodeling team know you have pets, along with any special concerns.

Good contractors will:

• Keep gates, doors, and access points closed
• Clean up daily
• Use pet-safe materials when possible
• Alert you before major noise or fumes occur

Consider putting up signs such as “Pet Inside — Please Close the Door.”

Final Thought

Your home remodel should improve life for everyone — including your pets! With a little planning, communication, and smart precautions, you can create a safe, calm environment for your furry (or feathered) companions.

At Building While Giving, we don't only care about our human clients, we care about their pets as well! 

If you would like to talk about what steps we can take to keep your pets safe during your remodel, give us a call at (720) 968-7874