Summer brings sunshine, long evenings, and endless outdoor fun—but if you share your home with pets, it also means fur tumbleweeds rolling across the floor, muddy paw prints on the rug, and curious noses finding trouble in unexpected places. The season can be tough on both homes and four-legged family members—the heat leaves dogs restless, cats lazier, and houses a little worse for wear.

The good news? A few small changes can make a big difference. With the right habits, you can keep your space cleaner, safer, and more comfortable—without feeling like you’re constantly playing catch-up.

Here’s how to stay ahead of the chaos.

1. Tackle the Shedding Season Head-On

Anyone with a double-coated dog knows that summer shedding isn’t “a little extra hair.” Undercoat rakes pull out what regular brushes miss. For cats, a fine-toothed comb works wonders. Tossing pet bedding in the washer weekly keeps dander from spreading through your vents. Better yet, keep a handheld vacuum near the couch—hauling out the big one every day just isn’t realistic.

2. Protect Floors from Paw Traffic

Nail scratches show up fast in summer when pets are running inside and out. You can’t bubble-wrap hardwood, but rugs or boot trays by doors help. Pet-safe floor wax adds protection without making surfaces slick. And if you’re house hunting or thinking about a remodel, don’t overlook luxury vinyl planks. It’s easy to clean and holds up way better than traditional wood against a 70-pound retriever doing zoomies.

3. Create Cooling Zones Indoors

Floors can heat up faster than you think, especially where the afternoon sun hits. If your pet naps in the same spot, pull the shades during peak hours to keep it cool. A raised bed works well too because it lets air pass underneath. If you don’t want to buy anything new, just toss down a washable bathmat in the shade.

4. Do a Backyard Safety Sweep

Summer is escaping season. Fences shift after heavy rain, so check for loose boards or gaps where pets could dig under. Reinforce gate latches before they fail. For gardeners, skip cocoa mulch (which is toxic to dogs) and stick with cedar or pine bark. And don’t forget to check under decks; cats love crawling in and getting them out isn’t fun.

5. Keep Air Quality in Check

Windows open, fans running, fur flying: it’s a recipe for dusty air. Swap out HVAC filters every month instead of every few. If you have ceiling fans, wipe the blades; pet hair clings to dust and rains down every time you flip the switch. A vacuum with a HEPA filter is worth it if you or your pets sneeze through the summer.

6. Watch Out for Seasonal Hazards

Extra fans and open windows all help in hot months, but they add new safety concerns. Keep cords tucked away where pets can’t chew them. Double-check that window screens fit tightly before leaving them open. Place several water bowls in different parts of the house and yard for easy access. And whenever you’re hosting guests, remind them not to leave food where pets can grab it.

Buying or selling a pet-friendly home this year? The Regan + Ferguson Group can help you find the right space for every member of your family, paws included. Get in touch today to start the conversation!