Pet friendly kitchens
We understand that pets are part of the family, more so now than ever. In fact, during the peak of the coronavirus restrictions 3.2million* pets were bought, so it’s no wonder more owners are looking for ways to meet their pets’ needs when they renovate their homes. Most pets spend more time in the house than you do so if you happen to be planning a new kitchen, why wouldn’t you design it with your furry friends in mind? Here are some innovative features to help you create a paw-fect, pet friendly kitchen.
Dog/cat bowl cupboard
It would be great if our pets could clean up after themselves, but it’s safe to say most haven’t quite mastered that trick yet. Some owners might have a dedicated spot where their dogs and cats eat, but it’s very easy for their bowls to be knocked and food left scattered across the kitchen floor when they have finished eating.
A dedicated dog or cat bowl cupboard is the answer. It features a bowl at the bottom of a metal bar which attaches to the inside of the cupboard door, allowing you to keep bowls out of sight when not in use. This can be easily removed and placed elsewhere, or you can leave it attached when you feed your dog or cat to prevent mess on the floor. The cupboard also has plenty of shelf space for storing your pet’s food and their favourite treats.
Built-in dog shower
For anyone who regularly takes their dogs on long countryside walks, particularly during the cold, rainy months, this one is for you. While you’re dodging puddles in your wellies and raincoat, dogs will often dive right into any boggy patches they can find. Unfortunately, the outcome is always the same: one very muddy puppy! If you’re not careful, that mud can be quickly traipsed around your home and shaken over your walls and furniture, which no one wants.
Pet owners have clearly experienced this one too many times because, according to Rated People, a dog shower comes third in the list of features which homeowners would spend the most money on. A built-in dog washing station can be installed in your utility room which you can access from the outside. This nifty feature provides an enclosed space fitted with a hose for washing your dog after its walk. Once your dog is clean and enjoying a well-earned nap, you can easily rinse off any excess mud which might have been left behind.
Integrated pet bed
Speaking of sleepy dogs, an integrated bed is another great option for your new pet-friendly kitchen. Modern kitchens aren’t just for cooking; they’re completely multi-functional meaning we spend more time in them than ever before. Anyone who owns a pet will know that they rarely leave your side unless they are getting up to mischief, so why not create a dedicated space for them to relax alongside you while you’re in the kitchen?
Integrated pet beds are available in a variety of styles and can be incorporated into your cabinetry, complimenting your kitchen’s overall design. This also ensures the bed is kept neatly out of the way, freeing up floor space and preventing you from tripping over it when you move around the room. Just make sure you take into account the size of your pet when designing your new kitchen to create a bespoke spot that will keep both you and them happy.
Take a look at all of our latest news to find more helpful tips for creating your new kitchen design.
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