Dog standing in a grassy backyard
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Pets & home

How Pets Affect Your Lawn and Home

Lawn damage

Repeated traffic can compact soil and create bare paths, while concentrated urine can stress turf. Rotating play areas, watering affected spots, overseeding and choosing resilient grass varieties can help.

Flooring wear

Claws, tracked grit and accidents can shorten the life of softer flooring. Durable finishes, washable runners near doors and frequent nail trimming can reduce scratching. When selecting flooring, also consider indoor-air emissions, cleaning chemistry and manufacturer VOC information.

Odors and indoor air

Washable bedding, effective ventilation, routine filter changes and prompt cleanup matter more than heavy fragrance products. Some households may benefit from more frequent HVAC filter changes because of pet hair and dander.

Doors, trim and fencing

Watch for scratched doors, damaged screens, loose fence boards and digging along fence lines. Small repairs are cheaper when caught before they become escape routes or moisture entry points.

Home budget tip: Pet ownership can increase lawn repair, floor refinishing, filter, cleaning and fence maintenance costs. Include a small pet-related maintenance allowance in your annual home budget.
Health and safety: Product emissions, cleaning chemicals, mold, allergens and pet health concerns vary by household. When in doubt, consult a qualified and licensed professional familiar with the codes and requirements in your area.

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