Whether you’re preparing for showings or hosting an open house, balancing a clean, inviting space while caring for your furry companions is absolutely possible—with the right plan.
1. Understand the Buyer’s Perspective
While you may adore your pet, buyers may not. Allergies, cleanliness concerns, or simply a different lifestyle preference can turn a potential sale into a pass. That’s why the goal is to create a neutral, pet-free impression—at least during showings.
This doesn’t mean hiding your pet or pretending they don’t exist. Instead, focus on minimizing signs of their presence. Remove pet beds, toys, and food dishes from sight. If your home features any signs of wear and tear from pets (scratches on doors or chewed-up trim), consider quick cosmetic fixes to refresh the space.
2. Clean Like Never Before
Deep cleaning is essential. Pet odors are often one of the first things buyers notice—and they can linger in carpets, upholstery, and even walls. Professional cleaning services can be a worthwhile investment, especially for homes with long-term pets.
Don’t forget about hair and dander. Vacuum frequently, use lint rollers on furniture, and consider installing air purifiers in high-traffic areas. Clean windows where nose prints might linger and deodorize with neutral, pet-safe sprays.
3. Plan Ahead for Showings
One of the biggest hurdles in occupied home staging is coordinating your schedule with home viewings—particularly if pets are involved. Dogs barking during showings or cats hiding under the bed can make buyers uncomfortable and distract from the viewing experience.
If possible, arrange for a friend or family member to watch your pets during open house hours. Alternatively, consider doggy daycare or pet boarding services for temporary relief. The goal is to keep the home as quiet, calm, and distraction-free as possible.
4. Create Pet-Free Zones
If completely removing pets during showings isn’t feasible, create designated areas that buyers won’t access—such as the garage or an outdoor run (weather permitting). Keep these zones clean and contained.
Ideally, choose areas that are easily sanitized and won’t detract from your home’s appeal. This is particularly helpful when staging on a tight schedule or during extended listing periods.
5. Tidy Up the Yard
Curb appeal matters—and that includes the backyard. Clean up any pet waste, patch up damaged grass or landscaping, and remove outdoor toys or bowls. Make the space feel like an oasis rather than a pet playground.
If you have outdoor pet enclosures, make sure they are neat, secure, and don’t dominate the yard. Buyers want to envision themselves enjoying the space—not managing your pet’s mess.
6. Manage Stress for You and Your Pets
Staging while living in your home with pets can be stressful, especially if showings are frequent. Create a routine that works for both you and your animals, and stick to it as much as possible. Keep familiar toys and blankets available during downtime to comfort them.
For practical tips on how to balance daily life while prepping your home for sale, check out our full guide on living at home during staging.
Final Thoughts
Staging a home with pets requires a little extra effort, but it’s entirely achievable. With proper cleaning, organization, and planning, your space can appeal to a broad range of buyers—without compromising your pet’s well-being. For professional support, our occupied home staging services at The Staging Place help homeowners across Edmonton showcase their properties while still enjoying their daily routines—pets included.