Let’s be honest…

When we’re choosing a home, we’re thinking about:

The kitchen
The lighting
The layout
The vibe

But if your pet had a say in the process?

They’d probably have a very different checklist.

As someone who’s spent years caring for pets inside their homes—and now helping people find the right ones—I can tell you this:

Your home has a direct impact on your pet’s happiness, behavior, and overall well-being.

So here are 5 things your pet definitely wishes you considered before signing that lease or closing that deal.

1. “Can I Actually Move Around in Here?”

Open space isn’t just a design trend—it matters for your pet.

Dogs need room to:

Walk comfortably
Play
Stretch out

Cats need space to:

Roam
Climb
Observe their environment

A home that feels “cozy” to you might feel restrictive to them.

Choose a home that supports your pet’s needs.

✨ Bestie Tip: Think beyond square footage—pay attention to flow and usable space.

2. “Where Am I Going to Get My Sunlight?”

If you have a cat, you already know… sunlight is a lifestyle.

Pets are naturally drawn to:

Warm spots
Windows
Natural light

It affects their mood, sleep patterns, and overall comfort.

Choose a home that gives your pet access to natural light.

✨ Bestie Tip: Look for homes with good natural light and window access—your pet will find their favorite spot immediately.

3. “What’s Going on Outside?”

Your pet experiences the neighborhood just as much as you do.

Things that matter to them:

Noise levels (traffic, construction, crowds)
Access to green space
Safe walking routes

Pet-friendly neighborhoods like Culver City and Santa Monica are known for their walkability and access to outdoor space.

Choose a neighborhood that makes your pet feel at home.

✨ Bestie Tip: Take a walk around the neighborhood as if you were your dog—it’ll tell you everything.

4. “Is This Floor Going to Betray Me?”

Flooring matters more than you think.

Some surfaces:

Are slippery (hard for dogs to grip)
Scratch easily (hello, security deposits 👀)
Hold onto odors and fur

Pet-friendly options include:

Hardwood
Tile
Luxury vinyl

Choose a home that supports your pet’s paws.

✨ Bestie Tip: Think durability + comfort—for both you and your pet.

5. “Do I Feel Safe Here?”

This one is big.

Pets are incredibly sensitive to:

Energy
Noise
Layout
Transitions in space

A home that feels chaotic, loud, or cramped can lead to:

Anxiety
Behavioral changes
Restlessness

Choose a home that makes your pet feel safe.

✨ Bestie Tip: Pay attention to how your pet responds when they first enter a space—it matters.

Final Thoughts: Home Isn’t Just About You

Your pet may not be signing the lease…

But they’re living the experience every single day.

And when you choose a home that supports their needs, you’ll notice:

Better behavior
More ease in your routine
A calmer, happier environment overall

Looking for a Pet-Friendly Home in LA?

This is exactly how I think when I help clients find homes.

Not just:
👉 “Is this a good property?”

But:
👉 “Does this feel right for your life—and your pet?”

If you’re thinking about making a move, I’d love to help you find a space that works for everyone in your home.

Let’s find your next place—Bestie style.

5 Things Your Pet Wishes You Considered Before Choosing Your Home