5 DIY Projects for Pet Owners

Ray Cogan
man assembles dog feeder while dog looks on

One of the best parts of owning a home is having the freedom to truly make it your own.

Sometimes, even small changes can make a big difference in how a space accommodates your family and lifestyle. And the same is true for your four-legged friends – because, after all, our pets are members of the family, too.

So why not renovate your home and make life a little easier for the entire family? Check out some of these simple DIY projects that are sure to make your home a pet-friendly sanctuary:

  1. Make bath time easier. Washing muddy paws can be a dirty job. But a simple renovation to your laundry room or mudroom could change the way you tackle bath time. Try adding a ramp and raised tub with a hand-held shower to make your very own pet washing station. And consider installing scratch- and stain-resistant floors to make cleanup a breeze.

  2. Give your pet some space. Just like us humans, our pets enjoy having their own space to relax and unwind. So consider carving out some room in your home just for them. Have an extra bedroom, screened porch or sunroom? Convert it into a space with some toys, a dog bed or cat tree. Store their food and water dishes here too, and it can serve as a great way to keep your pet supplies separate from the rest of the house.

  3. Install doors and gates. We’re used to using gates to keep our pets in. But what are you doing to let them outside? It’s easy to install a pet door so your dog or cat can easily enter and exit the house without making a mess. And new “smart” pet doors on the market have improved upon those old-fashioned flap designs, offering features like key-fob controlled access and app-based locking and unlocking.

  4. Build your backyard. Happy, healthy pets need a controlled place to roam. Build a fenced-in dog run to give your pet the freedom to roam without running off. And install a ramp on the deck for older pets, so they have the freedom to explore, even as they age.

  5. Design storage space. Pet food and litter takes up a lot of space. And it can often make a mess in your kitchen or laundry room. So install a designated pet supplies cabinet or storage bin to keep pet supplies out of sight. This will help prevent spills and keep the smell of pet food away from dinner.

Making life easier for your furry friends makes it easier for you, too. And if you ever need to sell your home, pet owners may be willing to pay a little extra for your pet-friendly upgrades.

At Erie Insurance, we know home is more than just a place; it’s a feeling, too. And your local ERIE agent  is always there to help protect it. Learn more about homeowners insurance from ERIE .

WANT MORE PET TIPS?

You may enjoy these related articles from the Eriesense blog.

two men working in a plant Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan January 21, 2026
Visit Lindquist Insurance to request a business insurance review or quote, and let our team help you pair the right general liability policy with smart risk management so your business can grow with confidence throughout 2026 and beyond.​ Contact us today. Serving Frederick, MD and Annapolis, MD.
Family in home Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan January 13, 2026
Make this the year you actually check “review my homeowners insurance” off your list. Visit Lindquist Insurance to request a personalized homeowners’ policy review or quote, and let a live local agent help you update your coverage, uncover potential discounts, and an updated homeowners insurance plan.
two men shaking hands
By Ray Cogan December 15, 2025
Our insurance agency staff in Frederick can help you evaluate your insurance needs for 2026. Starting the new year with confidence in your coverage brings peace of mind.
cars driving in snow
By Ray Cogan December 8, 2025
We offer car insurance in Frederick. Winter driving increases accident rates during the holiday season. Be sure your car insurance coverage is adequate for winter driving.
rain hitting pavement
By Ray Cogan November 24, 2025
We offer commercial property insurance in Frederick to protect your business from seasonal risks. Call us today for a free review of your commercial property insurance needs.
people in a courtroom
By Ray Cogan November 17, 2025
We offer general liability insurance in Frederick to protect your business from costly claims. Call Lindquist Insurance today for a customized review and quote.
fireplace
October 10, 2025
Our insurance agent based in Frederick provides tips for fall protection. We can help you balance protection and affordability so you’re ready for anything the season brings.
scary home
By Ray Cogan October 10, 2025
We offer business insurance in Frederick. Learn how to avoid the most common business insurance mistakes. Contact us today to schedule your free business insurance review.
home during fall
By Ray Cogan September 22, 2025
Our insurance agent based in Frederick has provided a checklist to help you prepare for the season ahead. Contact us today and let us help you prepare.
More Posts