Sustainable Pet Lodging with Green Roofs
Pets ProductsPublished May 27, 2010 at 6:46 pm No Comments
Forget the drab wooden doghouse taking up space in the backyard. Sure, it’s functional and classic, but if you’re looking for something that pleases you and the environment as much as your dog, consider customized pet lodging by Sustainable Pet Design. The doghouses double as a work of art – one that also incorporates nature into its design.
Sustainable Pet Design is behind the Greenrroof Animal Home, custom-built pet lodging appropriately sized to meet your dog’s needs. You choose the style of home you’d like created, as well as the color and plant types. If you have a vision for the perfect eco-friendly pet lodging – the company will turn your personal requests into the talk of the neighborhood. Construction is performed by hand; meaning your pet home is a one-of-a-kind creation.
What is a Green Roof?
Sustainable Pet Design uses a green roof to combine nature with functional pet lodging. A Green Roof is a “vertical extension of the roof of a structure” that consists of vegetation, filter membrane, drainage layer, growing medium, and waterproofing. It’s the same concept humans relied on thousands of years ago. The modern version of the green roof you see today was developed in Germany during the 1960s.
Choosing native plants for your gardens and other outdoor spaces provides a habitat conducive to native insects and birds. Simply water the green roof regularly for about six months to establish the plants. After this period of care, the vegetation should thrive with very little attention. Local customers have placed orders up to 90 days in advance to receive a sustainable pet home with vegetation already in full bloom.
Non-Toxic Materials
Sustainable Pet Design homes rely on non-toxic materials, including untreated red cedar planks, beeswax waterproofing, and zero-VOC paint. No pressure-treated wood is used in the construction of pet houses because they often contain harmful chemicals. Instead, homes are made out of naturally rot-resistant red cedar, which lasts about 15 to 20 years. It is suggested to apply a finish every two years to extend the life of your pet home. The company also uses recycled wood coated with zero-VOC sealant, which prevents toxins from off-gassing.
The Obama Dog House
There are plenty of eye-catching Sustainable Pet Design models to select, but one that truly captures the attention of passersby is the Obama Dog House. Constructed with the President in mind, the company hopes the doghouse will help spread the word about using eco-friendly practices and materials. The first example of the Obama Dog House was constructed out of donated materials, including greenroof plants, eco-friendly paint, and historic wood. It features a Greek Revivial architectural style
Other Sustainable Pet Design Gems
Sustainable Pet Design additionally offers green birdhouses and a line of Couture Homes for pet owners to browse, including:
15° Wright: This modern home with all angles at 15 degrees was originally commissioned by architect Eric Lloyd Wright (Frank’s grandson), who wished to display it with one of his prefab human homes at the Green West Expo. Prices for this model are: Extra Small ($2000), Small ($2300), Medium ($2600), Large ($2900), and Extra Large ($3200).
Dog Barn: A mini barn topped with attractive greenery just for your pooch. The pet home also functions as a place for birds to sit a spell. Two perches are conveniently situated away from the doghouse entrance. Prices include: Extra Small ($1000), Small ($1150), Medium ($1300), Large ($1450), and Extra Large ($1600).
Goth Cathedral: Constructed in the shape of a cathedral, this pet home for birds offers a sizeable opening in the front and two perches attached to the back. Prices: Extra Small ($1500), Small ($1800), Medium ($2100), Large ($2300), and Extra Large ($2600).
Getting Your Sustainable Pet Lodging
Residents of California have the luxury of enjoying planted houses at their fingertips, where all vegetation is carefully inspected and planted. For customers living outside of California, Sustainable Pet Design homes are shipped unplanted, arriving waterproofed. Shipped doghouses come with drainage material, filter fabric, and a special soil mix. The company is also more than happy to supply you with sources of native plants in your region.
To inquire about a green pet home, send an email to Sustainable Pet Design.
