Americans keep many different kinds of pets. Although dogs and cats account for a large majority of the overall domestic pet population, there's still a prevailing percentage of fish, lizards, rabbits, birds, ferrets and more. Unlike dogs and cats, many specialty pets need their own homes and self-contained habitats. It's not always easy trying to find ways to make your pet's home fit into your home decor, but there are a few tricks pet owners have discovered over the years to accomplish the difficult task. Whether you're installing a fish tank or bringing home a terrarium, study up on these how-to tips before you make any big moves.

Location, Location …

There are several factors you'll need to consider when thinking about where to put your fish tank, terrarium or pet cage. Just like getting a dog or cat, getting a specialty pet depends on whether you have the right space to accommodate it. You don't want to make a big purchase and find out the only reasonable place is in the garage by your fishing rod travel case. There's more to it than most people think. Basically, what it comes down to is being able to strictly maintain your pet's confined environment. Areas that fluctuate in sun exposure or temperature can cause problems. Try to keep fish tanks away from sunny windows and make sure your terrarium isn't near vents for heating and air conditioning.

What's Inside Counts

If you're spending the money on a large pet habitat, you're going to want to put it on display and show off what's inside. Specialty pet habitats can take up a lot of space, and they are usually intended to be the focal point of a room. That makes the decor you put in your fish tank or terrarium as important as any of the home decor in your room. It's easier to design around the colors of your pet's environment than it is to work the colors of the tank or terrarium into your decor. A simpler solution that won't have you replacing larger pieces of furniture is to accent your space with prominent colors from your pet's habitat. With all the pet home decor items out on the market nowadays, it's easier to find an interior that won't clash with your home's interior.

Clean And Easily Seen

Just like it's necessary to keep your furniture dusted and your floors free from dirt, it's important to keep your pet's habitat pristine if it's part of your room's decor. Although fish tanks have self-cleaning equipment to make life a little easier, maintaining the clean look in your reptile, rodent, or mini mammal headquarters requires day-to-day upkeep and a keen eye. In fact, it's arguably more essential to make sure your pet's habitat is clean because it will be admired and examined more than any other piece of decor in your room. Do your research, read your instructions and always keep the glass clean so you and your guests can enjoy watching your animals in action.

Fish tanks and large terrariums can be a big investment. Although people don't usually think of them as major focal points, they present interesting options for home decorating. Whether you're in search of some wildlife throw pillows to match your fish tank or trying to piece a room together before the big purchase, The Lakeside Collection has home decor and decorative accents to fit your space.