Pets are part of the family—but when you're getting ready to sell your home, their presence needs to be carefully managed. Buyers may love animals, but they’re not looking to smell them, see them, or stumble across signs of them during a showing.
If you're a homeowner with pets, don’t worry—you don’t need to hide their existence. But you do need to be strategic. Here's how to stage your home with pets in mind so you can attract the right buyers and sell for top dollar.
Why Pet Owners Need a Staging Strategy
Pets Are Family—But Not to Every Buyer
While nearly half of Canadian households own pets, not every buyer will be thrilled to know your home is shared with a dog or a cat. Some may be allergic. Others may associate pets with damage, odours, or extra cleaning. And for buyers who don’t have animals, seeing pet-related items can be a distraction that pulls focus from the home's best features.
First Impressions Matter (Especially with Fur)
From listing photos to first showings, your home only gets one chance to make a strong impression. Pet fur on furniture, nose prints on windows, or an unexpected odour can shift attention away from your home’s actual value. Thoughtful staging helps make sure buyers see the space—not the animal that lives there.
Pre-Listing Prep for Pet-Friendly Homes
Deep Clean Is Non-Negotiable
Even if your home is spotless day to day, pet-related mess builds up over time. Before listing, consider hiring a professional cleaner. Focus on carpets, upholstery, drapes, baseboards, and anywhere fur or odour might linger. Use neutral, scent-free cleaning products or professional-grade odour neutralizers.
Repair Pet-Related Damage
Look for signs of pet wear and tear: scratched floors, chewed baseboards, torn window screens, or destroyed backyard patches. These small issues can give the impression the home hasn’t been maintained. Simple repairs can go a long way toward restoring buyer confidence.
De-Personalize the Pet Space
Just like you'd put away personal photos or kids’ artwork, you should remove visible signs of pets during showings. This includes food bowls, litter boxes, leashes, crates, and toys. Store everything in a closet or storage bin when not in use, and aim to make the home feel as neutral as possible.
Smart Staging Tips for Homes with Pets
Neutralize—Literally and Aesthetically
Skip the air fresheners. Buyers often find strong scents suspicious. Instead, use an odour-neutralizing spray or air purifier in advance of showings. A light, fresh-smelling home with clean-lined decor makes a more welcoming impression.
Highlight Pet-Friendly Features (Subtly)
If your home has a fenced yard, a durable mudroom, or easy-to-clean flooring, those are selling points—just don’t oversell them as "perfect for pets." Instead, stage them for broad appeal and let your agent highlight their versatility.
Add Non-Pet Touches to Every Room
To balance the home’s atmosphere, incorporate elements like fresh flowers, neutral throws, or open windows. These soften the space and draw attention away from any remaining pet evidence.
What to Do with Your Pet During Showings
Take Them Out or Arrange for a Pet Sitter
Even the friendliest animals can be unpredictable with strangers walking through their home. Pets can become stressed, and buyers may feel uncomfortable. Take your pet with you during showings, or arrange for a friend, family member, or local pet sitter to watch them.
Pet Daycare Options in Simcoe County
If you’re expecting multiple showings or an open house, consider a day at doggy daycare. Many local businesses offer short-term care or drop-in options. Ask your real estate agent for recommendations—they may already have a go-to list. Shout out to
Final Touches Before Each Showing
Vacuum (Again), Hide the Toys, Open the Windows
Even after a deep clean, fur accumulates quickly. Do a quick vacuum, tuck away toys and dishes, and air out the house before each showing. A home that feels fresh, open, and tidy will leave a lasting impression.
Leave Behind a Calm, Neutral Atmosphere
Buyers want to picture themselves in your home—not you, and not your pet. Soft lighting, natural airflow, and clean surfaces help buyers focus on the space and not on distractions.
Selling a Pet-Friendly Home in Simcoe County?
You love your pets, and there’s no need to pretend they don’t exist. But when it comes time to sell, it's all about presenting your home in its best light. A few thoughtful changes can help ensure your home appeals to as many buyers as possible, including those who may not be animal lovers.
Need Help Staging Your Home for Sale (and Pets)?
I work with sellers throughout Simcoe County, many of whom are proud pet owners. I’ll help you create a staging plan that balances your lifestyle with what buyers are looking for—so you can move forward with less stress and better results.
Reach out today for a no-pressure home consultation. Let's make your home stand out—fur and all.