Keeping Your Pets in Mind When Buying a Home

When it comes to pets in Canada, over half of the population has one - 56% to be exact. When the pandemic hit, roughly 900,000 Canadians who have never owned a pet, welcomed one into their home. To say that Canadians have a soft spot for their pets would be an understatement, which means that the home and environment that Canadians keep them in is important.

When you’re buying a home, there is a great deal to think about, and that is before thinking what best fits your animal’s needs. It is overwhelming trying to think of everything that your animal might need in a new potential home which is why we have created a list of mental checks to have in the back of your mind when you are viewing potential homes.

Home Buyer’s Pet Guide

1. Safely Fenced-in Yard

Is there a large yard, and if so, is it securely fenced to where your pet could not escape? Sometimes home owners who have pets may have a fencing system that is not set up so be sure to ask.

2. Stairs

Take in to account the number of stairs and the height of each step as well. If you have an older dog, you may want to consider a home with fewer stairs. If buying a home with fewer stairs is not an option, putting in aids like dog lifts, carrying crates, or anti-slip stair mats to help your dog navigate your home, is something you can do as well.

3. Water Hazards

Is there a pool, pond, or other area of water in your yard that could be concerning? If so, are you able to control or prevent access, or cover the area to make it safe for your pet?

4. Securely Screened Windows

Making sure that all windows can be secured properly is very important for all pets. Your new home is an unfamiliar place that your pet may not be comfortable or familiar with yet. Having a window that may not close fully or properly can be dangerous, especially since cats prefer to be high up.

5. Traffic

Perhaps at your previous home you were able to leave your pet off-leash while talking to a neighbour, or you were able to leave the back gate open when you were taking the garbage out because you lived in a quiet neighbourhood where you didn’t have to worry about traffic. In your quest for a new home, are you okay to live on a busy street or do you prefer a quiet cul-de-sac where you don’t have to worry?

6. Pet Services

Are you close to a dog park, walking paths, pet stores, and/or a veterinarian? Depending on the size of the area you are relocating to, you may want to find a home that has these services close by.

Dog Parks Located in Regina (City of Regina Website)

3 All-Season Dog Parks in Regina

1. Cathy Lauritsen Memorial Off-Leash Dog Park, 2110 Forget Street

This park is partially fenced and bordered by Wascana Creek. Parking is available on-site or on 13th Avenue.

2. Ross Industrial Off-Leash Dog Park, 624 Solomon Crescent

This park is fully fenced, on-street parking is available. 

3. Mount Pleasant Sports Park, 750 North Winnipeg Street

*If you have a small dog, there is a separate sectioned-off area for dogs 30lbs and smaller.*

On-site parking available.

Entrance into this dog park is temporarily diverted through the City’s Bulk Water Station.

Use caution and slow down when approaching the Bulk Water Station.

Note that the Park’s south entrance is a one-way for eastbound traffic only.

Seasonal Off-Leash Dog Parks

Seven of Regina’s outdoor boarded rinks are used as seasonal off-leash areas for your dogs. Seasonal parks are open from May 1 to September 30 yearly.

North Zone

• M. J. Coldwell Park, 115 Fairview Road

East Zone

• Glencairn Park, 2626 Dewdney Avenue East

Central Zone

• Leslie Park, 3820 Victoria Avenue

South Zone

• Mike Badham Park, 2606 Grant Road

West Zone

• Rosemont School Park, 5310 4th Avenue
• Westhill, 8045 Kestral Drive
• Rochdale Park, 1127 N Arnason Street