Courtesy of Stacy McIntyre

Pets can become important family members and making sure they have a comfortable and safe space in your home, while at the same time not completely distracting from the décor, is important. Here are some tips and tricks to make your home pet friendly yet still stylish. • Slipcovers on furniture can help save delicate fabric from pet paws, hair and other damage. They can also be easily washed and replaced if needed. • Consider removing carpet and replacing with a waterproof vinyl flooring or ceramic tiles as they’re both easy to clean and are typically more durable. • Gates can help keep some pets confined into certain areas while you’re away or while guests are over. Look for a pressure mounted version or a free standing one depending on the size and agility of your pet. • A crate can be very functional and thankfully there are options available on the market where the crate is incorporated into a coffee table or end table which is more functional and stylish. The same goes for aquariums and terrariums as they can be incorporated into a table, dresser or similar furniture piece. • Water and food dishes come in a multitude of styles, finding one that matches the decor of your home is relatively easy. • Rubber brushes and lint rollers can be your best friend if your pet sheds. Keep them by the door so you can give yourself a quick brush off before leaving the house. KEEPING YOUR HOME PET FRIENDLY AND STILL STYLISH

FIVE QUICK WAYS TO UPGRADE YOUR HOME

Home maintenance is a never ending task when you’re a homeowner. Making sure your appliances, systems and things in your home are clean and in good repair takes a lot of work and can be rewarding in and of itself. But aside from the “must-do’s” sometimes doing something a little extra that you’ve been putting off for a while is the perk you need to find renewed motivation in your routine chores. The following is a list of five minor upgrades you can do to enhance your home and lifestyle. 1. Update your outdoor (and indoor) hardware. New door knobs or cabinet pulls are easy to change and can make a big difference. 2. Add slip covers or throw pillows to your furniture or an area rug to bring new colour, patterns and life to a room you want to refresh. 3. Add a plant. Even if it’s fresh cut flowers, adding plants and blooms to your rooms creates a welcoming environment. 4. Upgrade your showerheads to something more luxurious like a rain showerhead, one with various pressure settings, or a hand held option. 5. Enhance your lighting by replacing old bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights, replace light fixtures (or thoroughly clean the ones you have) or even add ceiling fans if desired.