Pet Projects
Whether you have had your furry (or feathered) friends for two days or 10 years, we know how easy it is to fall head-over-heels for them. These creatures are part of our families, so why not show them some appreciation? These 10 pet-friendly home projects go beyond simply building a dog house, yet each requires little time and won’t bust your budget.
Build a Dog Gate
Whether it keeps his muzzle away from the dinner table or stops him from getting underfoot during parties, a dog gate is a handy tool for setting proper boundaries for your pooch. And it certainly doesn’t have to look like a dreary chain-link fence. See how to make this handsome piece that can stand proudly in any room in the house.
Build a Dog Crate
Though your grown-up pup might still enjoy the security of his training crate, there’s just no good place to put that ugly metal cage. Why not build him a decorative furniture piece from wood that doubles as a safe haven when your pooch wants to curl up for a snooze? Check out how to make this design, which incorporates a reproduction heating grate and decorative cabinetry grille. You can easily use this DIY pet project as a side table in a living space while your furry friend slumbers inside.
Build a Dog Feeding Station
If your perfect kitchen design is being compromised by dinged-up dog bowls and the dried-up drool that surrounds them, this well-built canine furniture will not only jazz up the fanciest of cook’s spots—and organize the bowls, cans, and bags that are part and parcel to nourishing your pup—but the elevated platform will also give your furriest family member some much-needed neck and back relief. See how to build it step-by-step.
Build a Wall-Mounted Pet Organizer
It’s a routine every dog owner knows: Fido’s itching for his morning walk while you’re frantically hunting down his leash and a few plastic bags before you’ve had your morning joe. This handsome organizer, made from beadboard, crown molding, stock lumber, and a leftover tin ceiling tile, keeps all the necessities within arm’s reach. Make one for yourself, and you’ll be out the door with your pooch in record time.
Build a Dog Ramp
Your companion follows you everywhere—on walks to the park, down the driveway to get the mail, and even to bed at night. But when one hop doesn’t quite cut it anymore, or arthritis makes the trip to bed too difficult, the addition of a handy ramp feels like a custom fit. Learn to make one of these ramps that not only will prevent injuries, but also collapses for storage and hides away pet bedding.
Build a Pet Agility Course
You have your tricked-out media room. The kids have their backyard playground. But what about your dog? We think this oh-so-important family member deserves a special home recreation area too. We recommend getting everyone together to build your pooch an agility course. You and your family will spend some quality bonding time with your favorite canine—and the workout course can provide will be great for your dog’s health, behavior, and longevity. See our easy step-by-step instructions.
Build A Doghouse Like Your House
These five over-the-top canine cribs make perfect sense given the love affair that most Americans—and certainly our readers—have with their pets. But we also think these doggie domiciles are a pretty good way of putting the fine-craftsmanship cornerstone of TOH on display. Get all the information you’ll need to create a beautiful, durable doghouse for your pet.
Give Your Pet an Eco-Friendly Makeover
One of the biggest problems pet owners face is what to do with waste. That’s right: poo, cat litter, discarded plastic toys, packaging for dog treats and food, and all the other accessories loving owners buy end up in landfills. That cute doggy in the window starts to look like an environmental disaster! But there is good news: A whole cottage industry has sprouted up to help you green your pet care practices around the house. See our notable selections for an eco-friendly pet.
Make Your Home Pet Friendly
When you’re planning a home for both you and your pets, consider their particular needs. Think about whether you’re putting your door-dashing dog on a high-traffic street. Will your protective pup go postal on guests? How can you make your multi-story home comfortable for your elderly dog? Learn what you should be looking for, and how a little planning can go a long way to help you streamline your daily routine and keep your pet safe and happy.
Bring Butterflies into Your Backyard
These little creatures may not be your own pets, but they make your yard beautiful and complement your garden. This summer fill your yard with colorful butterflies. See these six common North American butterflies, some of their favorite plants, and how to get them the minerals they need to stick around in your yard.