It’s National Mutt Day!

It is estimated that 65.1 million households in the United States own a dog. That is about 40% of all households in the country, making dogs the most popular pet in the U.S.

In Arkansas, that percentage goes up to about 51.6% of households with at least one dog. And it's no wonder why, having a dog has been shown to improve heart health, reduce stress, increase happiness, reduce loneliness, improve mental health, increase physical activity and mindfulness.

Today, we celebrate National Mutt Day. It's a great day to honor mixed-breed dogs and raise awareness about our local shelters and rescue organizations. While shelters do have purebred and designer dogs, approximately 80% of shelter dogs are classified as mutts. Here’s how you can celebrate National Mutt Day while making sure your furry friend is happy and healthy in your homes.

Why have a National Mutt Day?

National Mutt Day was established in 2005 by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate. Her goal was to highlight the challenges faced by mixed-breed dogs and to encourage people to adopt mutts. Often, these dogs remain in shelters longer than purebreds or designer dogs. The truth is, mixed breed dogs are often a better choice.

Benefits of Adopting a Mutt

Healthier Dogs: Mutts generally have fewer genetic health issues than purebreds, leading to lower veterinary costs and longer lifespans
Unique Personalities: Each mutt has a distinct mix of traits that can make them more adaptable and easier to train
Saving Lives: By adopting from a shelter, you make room for another dog in need, contributing to the fight against puppy mills and overbreeding practices

Tips for Pet Owners Selling or Buying a home

When it comes to buying or selling a home, pet owners face unique challenges and opportunities. This won’t just affect you. It’s important to make sure you consider your pet during the process too. Here are some tips for navigating the real estate market with pets in mind.

Tips for Home Sellers with Pets

Remove Pets During Showings
Eighty percent of REALTORS® recommend that sellers remove pets from the home during showings. This helps create a calm environment for potential buyers and prevents any distractions or discomfort that pets might cause
.If possible, consider boarding your pets or having a friend take care of them during showings.
Deep Clean Your Home
Before listing your home, conduct a thorough cleaning to eliminate pet hair, odors, and any signs of damage caused by your pets. Use a vacuum designed for pet hair and wash all fabrics that may have absorbed odors
A clean home is more inviting and allows buyers to envision themselves living there without the distraction of pet-related messes.
Repair Any Damage
Address any pet-induced damage, such as scratched floors or stained carpets. Not only does this improve your home’s appearance, but it also shows potential buyers that you’ve taken care of the property
.Consider professional cleaning or repairs if needed.
Store Pet Supplies Out of Sight
During showings, keep pet supplies like food dishes, toys, and litter boxes out of sight. Having a designated spot to quickly gather these items can make it easier to prepare for unexpected showings
Highlight Pet-Friendly Features
If your home has features that appeal to pet owners—like a fenced yard or nearby parks—make sure to highlight these in your listing. Many buyers prioritize pet-friendly amenities, so showcasing these can attract more interest

Tips for Home Buyers with Pets

Consider Pet-Friendly Neighborhoods
When searching for a new home, look for neighborhoods that are accommodating to pets. This includes proximity to parks, veterinary clinics, and pet-friendly establishments
.A community’s animal policies can significantly influence your decision, so be sure to research before making an offer.
Evaluate the Home’s Layout
As you tour potential homes, consider how the layout will work for your pets. Look for features such as:
- Fenced yards: Essential for outdoor play and safety.
- Durable flooring: Opt for materials that can withstand wear and tear from pets.
- Space: Ensure there’s enough room for your pets to move around comfortably
Check for Pet Hazards
During home inspections, pay attention to potential hazards for your pets, such as toxic plants or unsafe stairways. Discuss any concerns with your real estate agent to ensure you find a safe environment for your furry friends
Plan for Moving Day
Moving can be stressful for pets. Consider arranging for them to stay with friends or family on moving day to minimize their anxiety and keep them safe from the chaos of packing and moving
Prepare Your New Home
Before moving in, make sure your new home is ready for your pets. This includes setting up their space with familiar items like beds and toys, as well as ensuring safety measures are in place (e.g., securing trash cans or removing hazardous items)

National Mutt Day is an excellent opportunity for homeowners to reflect on the joy that mixed-breed dogs bring into our lives. By adopting a mutt or supporting local shelters, you can make a significant difference in the lives of these wonderful animals. Remember that every day is a chance to celebrate the love and companionship that our furry friends offer us—so let’s make this National Mutt Day one filled with joy and awareness!

Here are a few local shelters and rescues you may want to visit or support: