In these situations, consider your pet's point-of-view. His normal routine is disrupted. He is confined to a limited area, subjected to frightening noises and exposed to strange people coming and going. To help make up for the chaos, make sure you keep up with your dog’s play, feeding, grooming and socializing routines, even when the construction is eating up your attention. These touchstones will make the project easier for your dog to bear.

Be prepared for the disorder that may occur when workers arrive and construction begins.

• The ideal situation would be to get your pet out of the house during the refurbishing. If it is a one-day job, take your pet to the groomer or to visit a pet-loving friend. Many kennels offer "doggie day care," and this might be fun for your dog.
• If your remodeling project is an extended one, you may want to board your pet or, if possible, isolate him in an area in the house that is free from remodeling.
• A naturally protective dog might lash out at a worker who seems to be invading his territory. Some pets may seek security by hiding, and the chosen hiding place may present safety problems. A frightened pet may quietly slip outside through a door or a window that may have accidentally been left open.
• Incessant, loud noise from hammering, power tools or other aspects of remodeling may be unnerving to a dog. Keep your pet in an enclosed area with his favorite blanket, toys and other favorite objects to help provide some measure of security. Avoid putting a frightened dog in an area with a large window. A fearful dog might try to jump through the window to escape the noise.
• After the workers leave for the day, pets still need protection. They are apt to investigate unfamiliar objects. Tools may be sharp. Paint, paint remover and wood preservatives can be toxic. These items should be kept off-limits to curious pets.
• Scrapings or dust from the removal of lead-based paint present another potential danger. The Centers for Disease Control has estimated that 80 percent of the private housing units built before 1980 contain some lead-based paint. Prevention is the best protection against lead poisoning. If feasible, have lead-based paint professionally removed and keep your pets away from the area. Be certain flaking paint or paint dust is promptly removed.
• If bare wires are exposed, the possibility of an electric shock or even electrocution exists. Keeping your pet away from the work area is the best way to protect him.
  
• If your kitchen is the focus of remodeling, you may rely on carry-out food for several days or weeks. Carefully dispose of leftover food, paper containers and plastic wrap. A thorough clean-up can prevent pets from eating leftovers, which could cause digestive upsets, or swallowing plastic wrap, which could damage or obstruct their intestines.

Follow these simple guidelines and some common sense, and the stress of construction can be made easier for your dog.