Five Tips for Sleeping with Your Pet

Welcome to the exciting world of sleeping with your furry friend! If you're considering sharing your bed with your pet, you're in for a treat. In this blog, we'll explore the joys and benefits of sleeping with your pet while also addressing some important considerations. So, snuggle up and get ready for a fun and educational adventure!

Is It Okay to Sleep With Your Pets?

The answer is a resounding yes! Sleeping with your pet can have positive effects on your overall health and well-being. Sharing your sleep space with a pet can foster a stronger bond, relieve anxiety, provide a sense of security, and even boost your immune system. If you decide to co-sleep with your pet, its essential to establish some ground rules early on.  Here are five tips to help you create a harmonious and restful sleep routine with your pet.

1. Potty train your pet.

Before allowing your pet to sleep on the bed, ensure they are potty trained. Young pets may not have the bladder control to avoid accidents, which can ruin your bedding. Even with housebroken pets, make sure they go potty before bedtime to avoid any interruptions during the night.

2. Keep your bed clean.

While your pet may bring love and warmth, they can also carry dirt and debris. Keeping your pet clean can help alleviate allergies and prevent any unpleasant odors in your room. Regularly bathe and groom your pet, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors. Use veterinarian-approved products to protect against fleas, ticks, and other parasites. 

Additionally, make sure your pet stays above the covers to further maintain a cleaner sleeping environment. Even if you don't let your fur baby cuddle under your covers, you should change your sheets at least once a week. Use hot water to remove bacteria and allergens effectively. 

Lastly, a mattress protector will safeguard your bed from any accidents or dirt brought by your pet. A mattress protector acts as a physical barrier against allergens, dust mites, moisture, mold, and mildew. It can be easily removed and washed in the washing machine.

3. Set bedtime as sleeping time.

Make it clear to your pet that bedtime is for sleeping, not playing. Avoid allowing them to bring toys onto the bed, especially squeaky ones that can disrupt your sleep. By establishing this routine, you'll ensure a better night's sleep for both you and your pet.

4. Establish boundaries early on.

Designate a specific area on your bed or consider using a pet bed nearby to prevent crowding. If you decide to share your bed, make sure your pet understands it is your bed. Never let them jump up on the bed without being invited.

To maintain a position of dominance, experts suggest making the dog stay on the floor for 10 minutes before inviting them up onto the bed. Also, don’t allow your dog to eat in bed, as this sends the wrong message about what the bed is for. If your pet misbehaves or exhibits dominant behavior, send them off the bed to sleep somewhere else.

5. Consider sleep disruptions.

If sleeping with your pet is affecting your quality of sleep, explore alternative arrangements. If your pet's sleep patterns make it difficult to sleep through the night, consider providing a separate sleeping space in your bedroom.

Additionally, consider how much space they may take up. If your pet isn’t full-grown, but will eventually become too large for the bed, it may be better to find them a separate comfortable sleeping area.

Another option is to invest in a comfortable mattress that accommodates both you and your pet, ensuring maximum comfort for a sound sleep. A latex mattress offers anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, as well as being resistant to dust mites, mold, mildew and other common allergens. 

Remember that both you and your pet deserve a good night's sleep. Following these tips can help you create a safe and enjoyable sleeping environment for you and your beloved pet.