How to Create the Best Pet Play Area

If you have bonded or connected with a furry companion, you know there’s something remarkable about the loyalty, patience, and understanding that comes from pets, despite the barriers that come from being different species. They know us and love us like nobody else in the world. Yes, they can be demanding when it comes to food, but who appreciates the sloppy meals you provide as much as those furry critters? After a long day at work, who else is going to greet you with enough excitement to make their tale wag? Yup, none other than your furry companion.
 
Sharing Space with Fur Babies
Your pets love every inch of your home, including your garage. You might even be looking into ways to make your garage pet friendly, as a healthy environment supports healthy and happy pets. Remember, never leave your fur baby unattended in a garage area. It is not suitable as an unattended dog or cat house, but it can be a great place to spend time with them. Here are some other great ways to keep your garage pet friendly. 
 
Temperature
Garages can be too hot or too cold for animals. Just like you, your pet wants to be comfortable. Garages that are too hot or cold can cause health problems for your pet. They can’t tell you when they are uncomfortable (though they might whimper), but as their owner and caregiver, you can watch for signs.
If an animal is too cold, you may notice them shivering, just like people. Their ears or body may feel cold to the touch, and they may curl up to try to warm themselves. If an animal is too hot, they may pant, or breathe more rapidly. They may become thirstier. They may have trouble walking as they become weaker.
 
To maintain a proper temperature, try these steps.
Easy. Start with ventilation. Use your garage windows and even raise the garage door to allow good air flow. Fresh Air Screens are perfect for garage ventilation. Use a fan or box air-conditioner and a space heater with tip-over safety features to regulate the temperature.
Advanced. Insulate your garage for prolonged use. How to: Home Insulation has provided great tips for you if you are considering this option as a DIY project.
 
Storage
Animals are curious creatures. They rely on their mouths and noses to explore their world as much, if not more than their eyes. Garages can pose additional risks for pets and pet owners because it is often used as storage for dangerous chemicals. You can pet-proof your stored supplies using these tips.
 
To organize storage, try these steps.
Easy. Store chemicals in pet-proof containers. When choosing the container, find something that cannot be chewed through. Also, make sure the lid can seal tight without any openings. Clean up spills as soon as they happen to keep your pet from ingesting something toxic. 
Advanced.  Move the chemicals out of reach. Some things might be best stored in a basement or attic, or even in a shed. If you only have a garage available, but still need to move your chemicals, consider building an enclosed area of the garage like a storage closet, or utilize the space near the ceiling. Family Handyman has lots of ideas for storage that might make some great DIY projects.
 

Animals give off scents that may unintentionally advertise an animal-friendly space. If your pet spends a good deal of time in a garage, you may notice other animals around as well. Food and natural animal odors can contribute to this change. Use these tips to care for your own pet while being on the guard for unwelcome visitors.
 
Food. Pet food can attract other animals. While you want to provide food for your pet, you should never leave it unattended. Store uneaten pet food in a solid container or inside the house where other animals are less likely to smell it or reach it.   
Water. Water is essential for your pet, especially when they are outdoors or in a garage. Be sure to refill it often and clean up spills to prevent water damage or odor.
Security.  Screens do not make security walls, so it is important to keep an eye on your pet. Screens can be a great visual barrier for well-trained and obedient animals but will not prevent an animal from entering or exiting with force. This is especially important if another animal approaches that attract or offends your pet. If your animal shows aggressive or uncontrollable behavior it may be best to move them to a different area for the time being.
 
Adding the Finishing Touch
There are few garage conversions as heart-warming as a play area for pets. It might seem like a challenging and expensive task, but breaking it down into subtle changes, like adding a Fresh Air Screen can make this DIY project much easier to accomplish. Most of these changes will enhance your garage space, even before it the conversion project is finished, so you can enjoy each step as you go.
 

Stationary screens are good for play areas used by pets, because more than likely, you will not need to raise the entire screen. Raising the entire screen will make it more likely for wandering pets o leave the area and run off. However, having a zipper can
provide the perfect entryway for taking your pets out for walks.

Model B
The Model B screen is great for garages that are intended for animal interactions. They do not accommodate vehicle entry, but it does feature a center zipper. This can make a convenient entry area for pet owners and their pets.
 
Alternatives
Any screen can be convenient for animal owners. If you choose a retractable screen for your garage converted pet center, consider using the screen with the traditional buckle and strap system rather than using the rope and pull kit, as long ropes can pose a risk for curious critters. Check out this article that compares the difference between the buckle and strap system and the rope and pull kit for more information.