As a geriatric millennial who lives and works in the greater Charlotte region of North and South Carolina, I notice pet-friendly establishments have become the expectation. Our temperate climate with ample sunshine and green space encourages spending time outside and sharing it with four-legged friends.
But even comfortable environments like Charlotte’s have their limitations – after all, our iconic tree line requires ample rain. What’s a pet owner to do when the great outdoors is inaccessible?
My chocolate lab, Sydney, passed away last year. She lived a long and happy life. As our family worked through that emotional end-of-life stage, I was reminded of all the places we used to take her. Prior to the birth of our children, she was an expected part of our family whether at home or on the go. She went to the park with us, to the bar afterward, to restaurants and on road trips. It was understood she was joining us, and we would look for places to accommodate. After the kids were born, she continued to be a constant part of our traveling family.
While it’s fun to reflect on the places we took Sydney over her 14-year life, I am newly reminded of the added complexities traveling with a pet creates – we brought home a puppy, Oogie, this past Christmas. Now that we are nearing his first birthday, I once again think about the retail spaces we frequent with a different lens.
More and more, adaptability is becoming the standard and expectation for the built environments where we live, work and play. I even frequently see pets on planes. Designing spaces for pets and pet owners is a growing trend that doesn’t show signs of slowing.
Can I Bring My Pet?
These days, when we plan to leave the house, the first thing I think about is, should we/could we bring the dog? So many aspects of this initial question flow through my head.
- Are dogs allowed?
- What restrictions will this place have on pets?
- Are there outdoor seating options available?
- What will that environment be like?
Is this Establishment Actually Pet Friendly?
I ask these basic questions every time I consider bringing my dog anywhere. First, it’s important that I – the human – will have an easy, pleasant experience. Next, I dig deeper into what the environment and experience will be from my dog’s perspective.
- Will there be other dogs there?
- Will they be controlled?
- What is the noise level?
- What is the ventilation?
- Will there be easy access to relieve “bathroom” needs?
Thinking through these questions determines the places we choose to spend our time and money. I not only want a successful experience for me, but I also consider whether my dog will enjoy it. If the experience isn’t set up for my dog’s success too, I may decide to leave him behind. Some people, like my husband, may decide not to go at all if the dog can’t come. As retailers refresh their designs, it’s wise to examine all potential clients – like pet owners and their accompanying pets – when creating their one-of-a-kind experiences.
Typically, a “pet-friendly” establishment presumes there might be other animals there. Not all animals interact the same way, so it’s important to plan thoughtfully to include pets in your spaces safely and comfortably.
Where are the Designated Pet Areas?
Upon arrival, I quickly scope out the place. This brief inspection might be a product of my being an architect (looking for the exits and path of travel), but I want to quickly understand the environment.
- Is there a specific area designated for pets?
- If so, how is this area contained and signed?
- What are the visuals?
- Can both humans and pets see in and out?
I am automatically looking for the environment that expects my pet. If I can’t find it easily, anxiety starts to creep in because I don’t want to disturb anyone who did not intend to co-mingle with my dog. I also want to assess the environment before putting myself or my dog in it, so visible access both in and out is critical. Again, if the environment appears uncomfortable, I may turn around and leave.
What Amenities are Available to Meet My Pet’s Needs?
There is an increase in retail establishments not only allowing pets but catering to pets to lure in their owners. So when choosing an establishment these days, I look beyond the general environment to what amenities they offer my pet.
- Are there different services within the designated pet area?
- Is water easily accessible?
When it comes to my needs, I have a lot of patience. However, when it comes to my kids or my pet, their needs should be met right away. Meeting their needs is also the best way to ensure we don’t disrupt others.
A self-service setup over a server setup can allow pet owners to have control over their pet’s needs. Access to water that can be provided easily not only meets basic needs but also allows for the pet’s entertainment. As is often the case in the Charlotte region, it is hot, so quickly accessing water when walking into a space is generally the first move I see pet owners make.
How Does the Space Smell?
As much as we consider our pets a part of our family, they are still animals. They have heightened senses and different reactions because of those senses. For many animals, smell is their primary sense. Scent cannot be overlooked when designing spaces. There will be many smells that we as humans may not pick up, but our four-legged friends will.
- What finishes are being introduced?
- Do they give off gas?
- Are they safe for animals to lick?
- Do they have offensive odors?
- What cleaners do you use?
How Does the Space Sound?
Another element to consider is noise. The sound perception for humans and animals differs greatly. When thinking about pet-owning customers, retailers need to assess the sound needs of both the human and the animal. Some sounds are a product of the space. Other sounds you can introduce to enhance the experience.
- Is there going to be constant sound that creates a level of background noise?
- If my pet makes noise, will it disturb other guests?
Background sound not only drowns out random noises that might excite my pet, but potentially allows my pet to be louder in this space without needing redirection from me. This safety net can add to the comfort level of both the pet and the human. It is a delicate balance to achieve. Background sound could overstimulate a dog that isn’t used to the environment. On the flip side, a quiet environment heightens every individual noise. Balance is crucial.
Whether you live in a suburban explosion like Fort Mill, S.C., a rapidly growing urban landscape like Charlotte, N.C. or somewhere in between, businesses that support growth areas should be cognizant of pet owners’ needs. There is a growing demand for pet-friendly establishments designed with ALL customers in mind. Not only has this trend become the expectation, but it often adds to the overall experience for your guests – just another facet of good retail design.
Sarah Curtis, AIA, CDT, LEED AP ID+C, is Retail Studio Principal, Service Retail, for Little Diversified Architectural Consulting. Since beginning her nearly 20-year career at Little, Curtis has worked with clients to design spaces that foster relationships, conversations and services. She is a passionate advocate for performance-focused, sustainable design and seeks to make positive impacts with each project. Curtis holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). When she isn’t designing buildings, she is cheering on her daughter’s softball team and her son’s baseball team.
