If you’ve lived in the Portland or Seattle area for any length of time, you know that we love our pets in the Pacific Northwest. In fact, these metropolises regularly top the list of most dog-friendly cities in the country. To help our pet-adoring friends and neighbors we have compiled our top tips for designing a shower that will make pet bathing a breeze.
Choose Detachable Showerheads
A detachable showerhead can be your best friend in the bathroom when bathing man’s best friend. These showerheads include detachable sprayers that allow you to focus the stream of water where you want, ensuring your pet gets wet and you stay dry. They’re also great for getting to hard-to-reach areas without having to strain your back, and they allow you to more easily rinse the shower of soap and fur when bath time is complete!
Look for Temperature Control Faucets
A temperature control faucet is a smart and cost-effective addition to any bathroom remodel. The ability to control the temperature of the water with the push of a button will prevent you from accidentally burning your pet’s skin, as dogs and cats are more sensitive to water temperature than humans. Additionally, this faucet enables you and your pet to take cooler showers, which can save you money on heating water in the long run.
Consider an Open Concept Shower
If you have a large dog, getting them in and out of the tub can be a struggle. You may consider an open shower for your bathroom. Often called a spa shower, open concept showers are ideal because they completely eliminate the tub wall that owners and pets have to step over to get clean. That means no strained backs, pulled muscles, or bruised knees from bending and kneeling. In fact, many pet parents prefer a curbless shower because pets can walk right in, which may reduce anxiety and stress, making the entire process safer for canines and humans alike.
Opt for Non-Slip Floors
One of the best ways you can protect your pet and yourself is by installing a shower with a non-slip surface. This special coating or textured material on the shower floor will help prevent slipping and sliding, and can help to further reduce your dog’s anxiety about standing on a surface that provides no stability for their paws and claws.
Prioritize Durability with Tile Floors
Pet parents may want to consider tile or Luxury Vinyl Tile for their bathroom remodels because many tile options are durable, low-maintenance, and waterproof. Selecting an easy to care for flooring option can help to minimize cleanup time after the inevitable after-bath shake-off.
Pets entertain us, provide love and companionship, and make a house a home. Give back to your canine companion by designing a bathroom that is pet-friendly and pet-safe, all while remaining true to your aesthetics and the needs of your human family members.