A pet house where your four-legged friend can stretch their legs and lie down in comfort is great. One that gives them ample space to move around, play with a companion, and even allow you to step inside is even better! You can do just that with a garden shed—even a small unit should be enough.
If you’re interested in this approach, we’ve prepared some important considerations, along with ideas, to help you get off to a great start.
Garden Shed Retreat for Cats and Dogs
Dogs are on the UK’s list of popular domestic pets, with a whopping 34% of households owning at least one. Unsurprisingly, cats come second, and we bet you’re a fur parent to one or both of these! Have they claimed your garden as their play haven yet?
While they love being indoors, giving them some time in the garden can do wonders. If you’re concerned about safety, a mini garden home provides a sheltered spot for an afternoon nap or some alone time after outdoor play. Cue pet sheds; a wooden shed is just the perfect structure for this! It has the classic look of a pet house with a triangular peak roof and a rectangular base, but it’s larger. Since it’s a shed unit, there will be a locking door instead of a large, open doorway at the front—though feel free to customise it!
If the structure has enough space, the shed retreat can also be their grooming and washing area. And, of course, as a storage room for toys, extra bedding, cleaning supplies, and more.
Things to Consider
You need to plan, design, and decorate the shed retreat to make it comfortable for your pets. There’s a lot to consider, and it’s not just about avoiding hazards. Here are some important points to think about:
1. The needs of your pets
Every pet is unique, so their needs will vary. For instance, a Yorkshire terrier has different requirements than a British shorthair. Tailor the shed to meet those specific needs. Here’s what to consider:
- Space: Make sure the shed is spacious enough for your pet to move around comfortably. Refer to our guide, ‘What Shed Size Should You Buy?’ for for tips on choosing the right size for your outdoor area.
- Sunlight: Pets love to sunbathe, so position the shed where it gets plenty of sunlight. This will help keep the inside warm and bright. But be careful about heatwaves – pets can die if they are locked in a hot container, so never shut them in on a hot day. You should also read our guide on How to Keep your Garden Shed Cool in the Summer.
- Power: While it’s optional, a garden shed with electricity allows you to install lights, heating, and cooling systems. Your pet will appreciate this extra comfort!
- Insulation: Shed insulation ensures it’s warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Just remember, it’s best not to leave your pet outside for long periods during extreme weather.
- Access: Install large doors to allow your pet to come and go as they please. This way, they can enjoy their retreat and explore the garden.
- Furniture: Fur parents have their garden furniture, so it’s only fair that pets have their own, too! Cats, in particular, love having furniture to play on (and chew and rip apart). Consider adding a cat tree or shelves so they can jump and climb around their shed. Just make sure it’s something you won’t mind getting destroyed; as long as they’re entertained, who cares? Ha!
2. Intended use of the shed
Consider what the shed will be used for. Is it going to be somewhere for your dog or cat to sleep? Or will it also include grooming stations, pet baths, and a spot for you to sit and relax with them? The options are endless, so you might as well create a space that serves both their needs and yours.
To give you an idea, you could include a grooming station with storage for bathing essentials. Let’s not forget that we’re dealing with garden storage, which can be used to store things. This saves you the hassle of clutter and going back and forth from the garage. Keeping these activities in the shed helps maintain the cleanliness of your home, too.
Once you’ve decided on the shed’s purpose, you can start planning the interior. You’ll want to make sure it fits the purpose. For a grooming station, it should have a lot of storage, good lighting, and huge windows to keep it airy. A mini sink and a grooming corner are also worth adding—it’s all up to you!
If your idea is simply to have a relaxation station for your pets, perhaps consider a log cabin or a summerhouse instead of a traditional shed.
3. Maintenance and care
Whether you’ve purchased a new shed or repurposed your old one, you need to look after it. This means giving it some TLC to extend its lifespan and ensure it remains a comfy space for your pet over the years. Regular cleaning, inspecting for damages, and making necessary repairs are essential steps.
You’ll also want to make sure there’s proper ventilation and airflow in the shed. Also, keep any harmful objects, chemicals, or materials out of your pet’s reach. Given pets’ tendency to escape, consider adding screens on the windows and doors. Screens are perfect for keeping them safely inside while letting in that fresh air!
There you have it! With these considerations and the tips mentioned above, you can create a comfortable shed retreat for your pets. Don’t forget to add a few personal touches, which we’ll leave up to you.
Up next on your reading list: The Best Paint Colours for a Garden Shed