What do I do with pets during showings?
Don't lose buyers: where should your pets go during showings?
Quick answer: Remove or securely contain pets during showings. Best options: take them out, place them in a dedicated room with a sign, use a short-term pet sitter or daycare, or secure them in a crate with water and a clean area. These steps protect buyers, speed showings, and keep offers coming.
Why this matters when selling while living in the home
Buyers react to smells, noise, and surprises. Pets left roaming create safety concerns and slow down showings. That costs you time, viewings, and ultimately price. If you want top offers while selling while living in the home, make pet logistics simple and predictable.
Clear, step-by-step plan for pets during showings
- Plan ahead: schedule showings with windows to give you time to handle pets. Use 30–60 minute notice when possible.
- Take them out: best move for dogs and social cats. Walk dogs, drop at neighbor or friend, or use a short-term pet sitter. A 1-hour walk plus a quiet place is ideal.
- Secure a holding room: pick a small room with a closed door, remove valuables, add food/water, and post a visible “PET INSIDE — DO NOT ENTER” sign. Buyers won’t open that door.
- Crate smart: crate nervous pets. Line the crate with a clean blanket and remove tags or strong-smelling toys. Put crate out of show path.
- Use daycare or groomer: a reliable option for multi-hour showings or open houses. Many areas offer same-day drop-off.
- Communicate in listing notes: add “Pets on property — scheduled showings only” or similar to avoid unplanned visits.
- Clean and neutralize scents: vacuum, remove litter boxes before showings, and use unscented cleaners. Strong pet scents reduce buyer interest.
Quick checklist to leave before every showing
- Walk dog 15–30 minutes before arrival
- Remove food bowls and litter boxes from common areas
- Secure pet in room or crate with water
- Leave contact info and emergency instructions if applicable
- Wipe paw prints, vacuum, air out home 10 minutes before arrival
Special guidance by pet type
- Dogs: walk or sitter. If left inside, crate or room required.
- Cats: secure in a closed room with litter and low-stress cover.
- Birds/small animals: move to a carrier or a quiet room away from show traffic.
Sell faster while living in the home — be predictable
Buyers want a smooth, calm showing. Make pet handling a standard step. It reduces disruptions, keeps your home clean, and increases buyer confidence.
Tony Sousa is the local market expert who handles showings professionally. For help creating a pet-friendly showing plan that sells your home faster, contact Tony at tony@sousasells.ca or 416-477-2620, or visit https://www.sousasells.ca
