Nook Crate

DATE Spring Semester 2022 / 4th Year

Nook Crate is a hybrid dog crate that seamlessly connects senior dog life at home to on-the-go with a hard crate and soft carrier system.

Problem Statement

How might we ensure better quality of life for aging dogs as they become more at risk for health issues?

Having an aging dog can be very stressful

I interviewed some dog owners with senior dogs and a veterinarian to get some insight into their experience with senior dogs. From my research and interviews, I found that **the transition between a dog’s adult years to senior years can be a very stressful time for both the dog and owner** due to increasing health issues that can be difficult for the owner to watch and for the dog to deal with.

“It’s rough seeing a dog get older. After all the happiness she gave us, we want to make sure she is happy too as she nears the end of life.”
-Owner of a 19 yr old Dachshund, 2021

“I definitely worry a lot about him just because he is getting older and I’m not home as much.”
- Owner of a 15 year old Irish Terrier, 2021

Project Goals

Relieve some of the stress of caring for an aging dog by helping the **dog owner accommodate their dog’s increasing needs and provide ease of mind**.
Help **aging dogs continue to live comfortably** despite their increasing health conditions.
Consider aesthetics and make the product **integrate well into a home**.

Nook Crate

The coziest nook for your furry friend.

Both the owner and the dog can enjoy the homey qualities of Nook as a piece of furniture and comfortable bed.

The Carrier

The soft carrier collapses down into a bolster bed pad that sits inside the crate.

When arriving home, place carrier onto crate tray, unzip and collapse. When leaving, unfold carrier, zip up, and go!

The Tray

The crate contains an extending tray that makes bringing your dog out or back home a more seamless experience for both the dog and owner. It reduces the need for the owner to bend down and for the dog’s movement to cooperate.