You love your pet like one of the family. After all, they are man’s best friend. And your best friend seems to have stuff scattered all over the house. Organizing your pet gear is just as important and easy as organizing the human gear in your house. These steps will help you tackle pet organization so you have a spot for the things your pet needs most.
How to Organize Pet Supplies
Gather all of your pet supplies in one location. As you look over each item, create two piles: one to get rid of and one to keep.
Throw away any expired food items or broken items like old leashes or toys. If you have pet food, grooming tools, or other supplies in good condition, check with your local animal shelter. They may accept donations for the animals in their care.
Start organizing the items you have decided to keep by putting related things together. Put everything you need to take your pet on a walk in one pile. Make different piles for all food items and bathtime and grooming items, and so on.
Create Pet Stations Around Your House
Establishing pet stations throughout your house will help you find what you need easily. Store bathtime and grooming items in or near the bathroom, leashes near the door, and food items in a dry place near your pet’s dishes. Baskets and bins will make pet organization easy and all of your pet’s supplies will have a designated station in your house.
1. Food and Treat Storage
If you buy dry food for your dog, cat, or other pet, the bag of food can be unsightly and hard to work with. Find an airtight container to use for dry food so that it stays fresh for your pet and can be easily stored. Add a food scooper to the container to make filling Fido’s dish at mealtime easy.
Most pet owners also have a variety of treats for their animals. Some treats may come in a resealable bag which makes your job easy. If you purchase treats in bulk or packaged in a box, you may notice they dry out quickly. Look for a container with a lid to keep handy for when you want to give an extra treat to your furry friend.
If you are an expert DIY’er, you can customize your own pet organization for food and treats. This food storage unit is functional and looks beautiful.
2. Outdoor Items
Dog owners know that going for a walk is one of the best ways to work off some energy when you have an excited pup. Getting ready for a walk can be made easy by keeping all the necessities in one spot.
Place a hook near your door for the leash and harness so it’s ready to grab. Other items that you like to carry with you on walks can be kept in a basket in your coat closet or mudroom. This is a great way to store items such as waste bags, a collapsible water dish, a ball to throw, or sweaters for your pup if you live in a colder climate. Don’t forget to add a tape roller for you to help get rid of pet hair.
Your pets love to run around in the yard, chase balls, other animals, and of course, relieve themselves. Having a clean and dry spot for pet organization outside is always a good idea. Designating a spot in your shed or garage is ideal for items like frisbees, balls, and water dishes. Don’t forget to find a place to keep the waste scooper as well.
3. Pet Toys
If your household includes multiple pets, you know what it’s like to find cat toys, balls, and dog bones all over the floor. Use lidless baskets to store your pet’s favorite toys. This makes clean up easy for you and keeps them accessible for your pet.
Be sure to wash toys occasionally to keep them clean and in good condition. Using the gentle cycle with soap should do the trick.
Related: Moving Cross Country with a Dog
4. Bathing and Grooming Supplies
If you do bathtime or grooming from home, you’ve probably experienced an accumulation of the many supplies that help you get the job done.
Find a plastic bin to use to organize your pet’s shampoo, conditioner, and other bathtime supplies. Since bathing your pet is just an occasional task, the bin doesn’t necessarily need to be stored in the bathroom if you’re short on space. Look for a spot in a nearby hall linen closet or bedroom closet. When it’s time for grooming, having a basket organized with your pet brushes, clippers, and razors will make it easier to grab what you need.
If your pet has been prescribed any medications, it’s important to keep them out of reach of your pet just as you do with children’s medications. Organize your pet’s medications and store them in a secure place away from your own prescriptions so they don’t get mixed up in error.
5. Cages or Kennels
Your pet may be a cage dweller like a bird or hamster. Or maybe you have an aquarium for your fish. You know the importance of keeping this space organized and clean. Store items such as cage liners and nesting near your pet’s cage. Organize fish food, water conditioners, and replacement filters easily in a basket close to your fish tank to make maintenance easy.
If you have a kennel or carrier for your pet that is only used for traveling or while you are away, it might make the most sense to store it out of the way. Kennels that fold or collapse are great for fitting into tight spaces that are out of the way but still easy to get to.
6. Pet Record Organization
An item that may often be overlooked in pet organization is paperwork and other records. A pet binder is a great way to keep all of your items organized and easy to find. You can add records from a breeder or rescue for your pet, records from your veterinarian, and any insurance policies you may have. A pet binder is also a good place for care instructions like medications or allergies, your veterinarian’s information, and your contact information to leave with a pet sitter while you are away.
Your furry friend might not be able to tidy up his own things, but with the right pet organization in place, it won’t seem like such a chore and you’ll always know where your pet’s supplies are. A few containers and baskets are all it takes to get your pet gear under control.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on November 20, 2015, and was revised on May 15, 2020.
