8 Tips for Living with a Dog in an Apartment

Dogs bring joy and happiness to our lives, but when it comes to living in an apartment with them, things can get tricky. So, to make it easier on yourself and to keep your dog happy and healthy, follow some of these tips for living with a dog in an apartment.

1. Talk with your property management company

Most companies have rules that you need to follow when it comes to living with pets in your rental home. There are breed restrictions, weight limits, and fees that you should be aware of before deciding to live in an apartment with your pet.

2. Choose the right breed

Not all dogs are well suited to living in an apartment. While all dogs are fun and cute, some need more space to play or are more apt to bark. You don’t want your dog going stir crazy and destroying your entire apartment and you don’t want one that barks at every person that walks down the hallway. When choosing a pet, consider one that has a mellow and friendly personality.

3. Pay attention to your dog

To keep your dog from going stir crazy or destroying your apartment, pay attention to them. Give them the love they deserve. Bring them to one of the local dog parks or take them on daily walks to help them burn some energy.

4. Choose the apartment that fits your pet

If you already have a pet and are looking for a new home, choose an apartment that is more suitable to your animal. Consider a first floor apartment to make it easier for you to let your pet out for bathroom breaks and so that your pet doesn’t disturb those below you.

5. Train your pet

Training your dog is essential. If your dog is rambunctious and will destroy your apartment while you are away, consider crate training them. If you are having problems with when your dog needs to go to the bathroom, consider putting them on a bathroom schedule. If you pet ends up destroying apartment, it will result in hefty fees that you will be required to pay upon moving out.

6. Be aware of your neighbors

Be respectful and pick up after your dog right after they make a mess in common areas. Not everyone loves dogs, so keep your pet on a leash while in common areas. It is important to remember that this is your neighbor’s home as well.

7. Consider doggy daycare

If your dog is one that will bark while you are away at work or school, consider bringing them to a doggy daycare during the week. It will allow your pet to play and socialize with other dogs while also keeping your neighbors happy.

8. Keep your pet’s health up to date

Be sure your pet is up to date on all vaccines. If something happens that your dog bites someone, you will be required to show proof of vaccination. Overall, make sure you give your pet all the love they deserve! Train them, take care of them, and pay attention to them. Having a pet requires a little bit more planning, but if you follow some of these easy tips for living with a dog in an apartment, your pet can keep bringing joy and smiles to your life!

9 Tips to Save Energy in Your Home

Save money and energy by following some of these simple steps in your apartment or townhome.

Use Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs or LED bulbs

Lighting is an easy first step to save energy and money. According to ENERGY STAR, CFLs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. They also last longer, which saves you money in the long run. BONUS TIP: Turn off your lights when you leave the room! It will allow your lightbulbs to last longer which will save you money when it comes to replacement costs.

Use cold water to wash your clothes

According to ENERGY STAR, 90% of the energy your machine uses is from using hot water.

Unplug

Many products will continue to use energy when they are off, unless you unplug them. When you are no longer using battery chargers and power adapters, unplug them. Consider purchasing a power strip and using it as a central point where you can unplug all chargers and adapters at once. Smart power strips will even turn off after not being used for a certain amount of time.

Keep your freezer and fridge packed

Keep your freezer and fridge packed to help regulate the temperature and save energy. If they aren’t packed, try putting packs of ice in the freezer or pitchers of water in the fridge. According to Energy Saver, your refrigerator should be between 36 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer should be between 0 and 5 degrees.

Air dry your clothes when possible

If you do use your dryer, always remove lint between loads.

Adjust your thermostat

Turn down your thermostat a couple of degrees when you aren’t home to save energy.

Close or open your blinds

In the winter months, open your blinds during the day to let the sun warm the room. In the summer, shut your blinds to help keep it cooler.

Scrape your plates

Before you put your dishes in the dishwasher, scrape them instead of rinse them. Most modern dishwashers can clean the scraped dishes without a problem. To save the number of loads you do, make sure you only run the dishwasher when it is full.

Avoid putting furniture in front of vents

Doing so could disrupt air flow and push air to places you don’t need it.

Try following some of these simple steps and see if it saves you any money on your next energy bill.