Organizing Pets and Their Stuff

To animal lovers, organizing pets is equally as important as organizing people!

I fall into this category. My husband and I own a basset hound named Tux, and he is spoiled like crazy around our house!

Here are some pictures of our little guy:

Do you own a pampered pet like me? Maybe two, three, or more?

If you do, then he/she is very much a part of your everyday life, and it's important to include the pet in your overall organizing plan for yourself or your family.

Here are a few organizing tips to consider if your house has "gone to the dogs" -

• Use an old plastic container or wicker basket as a central holding point for the pet's toys.

  Place it in a spot where the pet spends a lot of his time, and a spot where he/she can reach inside the container easily to get the toys.

  At the end of the day, you can make a round of the play area with container in-hand, picking up the pet's toys and putting them back inside the container.

  This is what I do with my dog's pull toys, squeak toys, and balls. It makes organizing pets simple and easy!

• Designate a large tub (with lid) or cabinet space for the pet's stuff.

  Use the space to store canned food, dry food, treats, wipes, bath supplies, medicines, leashes, etc.

  Categorize the items and stack them neatly or place them in small containers inside the tub or cabinet - and there they will stay! Organized and out-of-sight.

• If you like to travel with your animal, use an old backpack or other bag to organize the pet's items for the trip.

  Carry the staples: food, treats, toys, bowls, an old water bottle with lid to hold fresh water, paper towels and/or wipes for messes, meds, extra blanket, etc.

  Our dog Tux is a "military kid" since my husband is in the U.S. Air Force. He has spent countless hours traveling across the States and around the world. Trust me - the travel bag is a must-have for organizing pets on the road!

• Hang a hook in an inconspicuous area, such as behind a door, inside a closet, or in the garage or utility room.

  Use the hook for leashes, collars, pet apparel, etc.

  A simple step that makes organizing pets as easy as 1-2-3!

• Create a notebook for the pet.

  Include copies of important vaccination documentation, phone numbers to ER clinics, kennel or sitter information, etc.

  Also, if you are sentimental and have stashed mementos of your pet over time, then make sure you choose a versatile notebook that can support the items you have kept. For example, zipper pockets for the "my first ID tag," clear pockets for pictures, page pockets for certificates or medical records, etc.

• Set up a monthly automatic reminder on your computer (or note one on your paper calendar) to display when it's time to give your animal heart worm medication or other treatments.

  Do the same for biannual or annual vaccination appointments as well as any other necessary vet visits.

Additional Organizing Tips

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