Got Pets? We Got Custom Solutions!

Americans love their pets!

In fact, a 2021 survey—reported on Spots.com— found that over 67% of U.S. homes have pets of various kinds, with dogs and cats holding the top two spots. That translates to 85 million homes that include a pet!

But the statistical number that ABSOLUTELY directs consumer behavior is:

95% of pet people consider their pets to be family members.

That fondness has created a new trend in the home-building process to include your pets’ NEEDS in the DESIGN DECISIONS.

Can’t imagine what that could look like? Read on for some creative and efficient features that are pet-friendly without sacrificing the aesthetics and flow of your home.

Bathing Station

If your pup weighs more than you or isn’t particularly fond of stepping into a traditional bathtub (read, no-can-do), you might appreciate a 48-inch walk-in pet bath.

Although this picture doesn’t do it justice, one of the Westmont Team’s challenges was making it easier for this Lake County family to wash their Bullmastiffs. (If you aren’t familiar with this breed, they usually weigh between 110 and 150 lbs!)

Conveniently located in the laundry room, this pet bath has a tiled backsplash—for the inevitable wet doggie shakes—and also features a handheld shower head at the perfect height.

Now keeping everyone smelling good isn’t such a monumental task.

Custom Doors

Traditional pet gates or even baby gates can get the job done, but after building and furnishing a new custom home, who wants to see OR navigate the unsightly and cumbersome gates?

Solution? Why not consider having custom doors installed in specific locations throughout your home that will allow you to keep your pet in the rooms you want them?

Maybe you want to keep Fido in a particular room while you’re gone but you want your kitty Garfield to have the ability to move from room to room—a half door might be a great solution.

And there’s always the convenience of a pet door that allows them to take a potty break in the backyard while you’re away. Installed in a home’s exterior door, this can be customized with a lock at night to prevent unwanted creatures from utilizing the door.

Feeding Station

Raise your hand if you’ve ever tripped over your pet’s water dish (eye roll!) A sliding drawer or one that folds up/down that comes out for feeding, and then stores neatly away is a perfect solution to that problem.

Take it to the next level by installing a faucet near the feeding station to make it easier to refresh the water dish. Be sure to also include cabinet storage nearby for Fido’s favorite food and treats.

Caring for your pets is a daily task that SHOULD be made easier!

Built-In Pet Bed

We all need our own space, and your fur babies are no exception—but crates and traditional pet beds don’t typically work with most decor. Custom home builders can create a safe space for your pet while matching your home’s existing cabinetry and style.

Making use of “tucked-away” spaces means a safe place for your canine or feline when the home is busy with guests or special activities.

Custom Kitty Litter Box

Cat-lovers would probably agree that dealing with the ugly, often smelly cat litter box is their least favorite aspect of cat ownership. So why not design a built-in, specifically for your purring friend?