Creating Perfect Spaces for Our Furry Friends

Let’s face it, pets are part of the family and to some they are considered “children.” Pet owners spare no expense when it comes to their pets. Globally, the pet industry is worth $232 billion and continues to grow 11.6% each year. An individual homeowner spends about $1,120 a year on their pet. Birthdays and holidays have always been celebrated for many a dog or cat, and homeowners are now remodeling spaces with their pets in mind. Here are some of the top trends for creating perfect spaces for your furry friends.

Sleeping Nooks Throughout the Home

Sleeping nooks are a great idea throughout your home. This allows your pets to burrow into their private space while staying close to you. Some great spaces include under the staircase, under a window seat, or even under a kitchen island. All pets relish a calm space, and this area can be reused for storage for future homeowners.

Built-In Bed or Kennels

The life of most pets makes us envious. Pets sleep a minimum of 12 hours a day. Giving your pet a dedicated place to sleep is important. Many pet owners use crates or kennels which can be an eyesore when walking into a room. A great solution is to build their bed or kennel into a mudroom, built in cabinet or even under or part of a piece of furniture.

Built-In Feeding Stations

Most people typically place feeding bowls in the kitchen, utility room or near a pet’s sleeping area. No matter where you place the food and water bowls, they always seem to be in the way. Homeowners are now incorporating feeding stations in their remodel. The most common way is to have them built into kitchen cabinetry or mudroom. Some even opt to have the bowls built into pullout drawers so they can be stowed when not in use.

Dog Washing Stations

Say goodbye to washing your pet in the bathtub! Dog washing stations can easily be incorporated into a mudroom. Most mudrooms already have plumbing so some easy changes can give the homeowner the perfect place to wash the pup especially when they come in from a wet or rainy yard. Most dog washing stations look like a shower but are half the height. They are equipped like a shower with hot and cold water as well as a spray nozzle. Dog washing stations can not only save you money on grooming but are also known to help with the resale value of your home when selling to another pet lover!

These trends create a comfortable environment for every member of your family including the four-legged ones. Your furry pets will love the space you create for them, and wonderful memories will continue to be made.