Homebuilders focus on catering to family pets

Originally published September 5, 2014 at 8:02 PM | Page modified September 5, 2014 at 11:51 PM

A growing number of newly built homes are set apart by their amenities for dogs.

California-based Standard Pacific Homes is building and selling homes in 27 of its 190 developments nationwide that are believed to be the first to offer a pet suite as an option in every one.

The most lavish suite is a 170-square-foot pet paradise with a step-in wash station, handheld sprayer and leash lead; tile walls and floors; a designated drying area with a commercial-size pet dryer; a water station; automated feeders; a large bunk-style bed; cabinets for toys, treats and food; a stackable washer and dryer; a French door that opens to a puppy run; and a flat-screen TV.

Standard Pacific began offering pet suites after conducting livability studies with homeowners. Pets were a constant theme, says Jeffrey Lake, vice president and national director of architecture for Standard Pacific.

Devotion to pets is second-to-none, he says. They are family.

The American Pet Products Association reports that 68 percent of Americans own pets and contribute to an industry worth more than $55 billion annually.

Real-estate officials say building homes designed to cater to pets is a new concept, but that remodels for pet owners have been available for some time.

Adam Cowherd Construction in Ozark, Mo., installs pet-friendly additions to homes. Cowherd said he recently finished a job where there was an open shelf on the end of a kitchen island to hold pet bowls.

Owners want it uniquely functional, very contemporary and something that catches the eye, Cowherd says.

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Homebuilders focus on catering to family pets