5 Ways to Make Your Twin Cities/Rochester Apartment Pet Friendly

Do you share your Springs Twin Cities or Rochester apartment home with a pet? Unconditional love is only one of the wonderful benefits they provide. Studies show that having pets around relieves stress and can actually lower your heart rate and blood pressure.

Our Springs communities are pet-friendly so all of our residents can enjoy this positive experience. We've put together a list of tips for making your precious pet feel right at home.

1. Create a Cozy Retreat

While your pet absolutely adores you, he also appreciates private time just as you do. Designate a corner or another out-of-the-way area as your dog's sanctuary. Furnish it with a comfy bed or pillow along with some of his favorite toys. Cats are not shy about staking out their own territories, but they still appreciate a scratching post, "kitty condo" or other feline-only accessories.

2. Pet-Proof Your Home

Pets are like toddlers: they have an endless curiosity about their surroundings, and they're not afraid to explore by putting everything in their mouth. Evaluate your home from a pet's point of view and find a safe place for power cords, trash baskets and anything that may prove irresistible. Make sure cleaning supplies, medicines and other potentially toxic items are kept out of reach.

3. Keep a Schedule for Pet Care and Activities

Your pet is completely dependent on you for his physical welfare. Establish a schedule for feeding and potty breaks and stick as close to it as possible. Dogs need exercise, so plan time each day for walks or games. Our Springs Twin Cities and Rochester communities have convenient leash-free dog parks along with pet spas for some well-deserved pampering.

4. Choose Durable Furnishings

Even if you train your dog to stay off the sofa, preventing any interaction between your pet and the furniture is a losing proposition. Choose furniture made with long-wearing fabrics and sturdy materials.

5. Pet-Shop with Care

Give your pet some TLC by providing high-quality food and treats as well as fun extras like toys. Here are two of the best local pet supply stores as rated by actual customers:

Bubbles & Ecouture
612 W 54th St
Minneapolis

This charming shop is only 20 minutes from both Springs at Egan Drive in Savage and Springs at Apple Valley. They feature all-natural organic food and eco-friendly toys along with a luxurious dog "spaw."

Leashes & Leads
6214 - 14th St NW
Byron

Conveniently located a short 15 minutes from Springs at South Broadway, Leashes & Leads is a throwback to classic country stores, from the barn-like design to the full range of products and services.

Do you have a fun shaggy dog (or cat) story to share? Tell us about it in the comments!