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Painting? We prioritize your pet’s health, too 

Painting? We prioritize your pet’s health, too 

  • "Painting? We prioritize your pet’s health, too" originally appeared in the June 2024 "Animal" issue of COMO Magazine.
What the Home Pros Know with Austin and Lacie Ilsley

You spend valuable time and resources to be sure you get just the right paint colors and that everything matches perfectly before the painting begins. Ai Painting Plus works with you every step of the way to ensure you and your family’s well-being is part of the process. And that includes your furry friends, helping you make the best decisions to keep your home vibrant and your pets healthy. 

The Importance of Pet Safe Paint 

Our pets are more than animals; they’re family. However, many homeowners aren’t aware that traditional paints contain chemicals harmful to pets. This realization underscores the importance of choosing pet-safe paint, ensuring our homes are safe havens for every family member. 

Pet safe paints are specially formulated to minimize health risks for pets, meaning they are free from or have low volatile organic compounds (VOCs). When shopping for pet safe paint, look for certifications like “Low VOC” and “Non-Toxic.” This choice ensures a healthier living environment, free from the airborne toxins typically associated with traditional paints. Both pets and humans will breathe easier, enjoying a cleaner, fresher atmosphere. 

Consider the Finish  

The finish of your paint does more than just affect the look of your walls; it also impacts maintenance and durability. Glossier finishes, for example, are easier to clean and resist wear and tear better than their matte counterparts. For households with pets, opting for a durable, easy-to-clean finish can make a big difference.  

Keep an Eye on Your Pets 

Even if you’ve taken all the necessary precautions, it’s still important to keep an eye on your pets while the job is being done. If you have hired professional painters, make sure they know that you have pets in the home and ask them to keep an eye out as well. If you’re doing the job yourself, take frequent breaks to check on your furry friends. They may be curious about all the activity and want to investigate! 

Mitigate Potential Risks 

  • Distress. Home painting projects can cause pets to feel distressed due to unfamiliar smells, people, and sounds in their home. 
  • Injury. Tools and equipment on the floor during home painting poses safety risks to pets and painters, including tripping, chewing, and equipment damage. 
  • Painting Issues. Pets can delay and lower the quality of a paint job by interfering with the process, damaging protective materials, or rubbing against newly painted surfaces. 
  • Keep Pets Away from Doors. Pets may try to escape when painters frequently enter and exit your home with supplies and equipment. If you are keeping your pets at home during the painting process, keep your pets away from the door. Consider using a gate or confining them to a safe area away from the working space to prevent any unwanted escapes.

Work with a Pet-Friendly Painting Company

At Ai Painting Plus, we know that your pets are part of your family — because they are a part of our family. We will provide a pet-friendly painting experience that puts your fur baby’s safety and well-being as a priority. We strive to make sure that our painting process is stress-free — for both you and your furry friends. 


Austin and Lacie Ilsley
Austin and Lacie Ilsley

Austin Ilsley, co-owner started Ai Painting Plus in 2013. From the age of 16 he started working with other painting companies which gave him a solid foundation for performing the work and running a company dedicated to professionalism both with himself and his crew. In 2021, his wife Lacie Ilsley became the new Owner. Since the start of this company, she used her skills to grow the business and create an enviable company culture in the Columbia community.

Ai Painting Plus

573-639-2343 | aipaintingplus.com

404 Portland St, Ste C | Columbia, MO 65201 | 573-499-1830
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