Degree Project Book

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east village animal care facility + Community Center A SUSTAINABLE, ADAPTIVE REUSE PROJECT WITHIN AN URBAN CONTEXT


J E S S I C A P O P E | D E G R E E P R OJ E C T B O O K | N E W S C H O O L O F A R C H I T E C T U R E & D E S I G N | 2 0 2 0

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east village animal care facility + Community Center A SUSTAINABLE, ADAPTIVE REUSE PROJECT WITHIN AN URBAN CONTEXT

By Jessica Pope NewSchool of Architecture & Design San Diego, CA 2020

E A S T V I L L AG E A N I M A L C A R E FAC I L I T Y & C O M M U N I T Y C E N T E R

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J E S S I C A P O P E | D E G R E E P R OJ E C T B O O K | N E W S C H O O L O F A R C H I T E C T U R E & D E S I G N | 2 0 2 0

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Degree Project Book

NEWSCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Master of Architecture

Copyright 2020 by Jessica Pope

San Diego, CA


east village animal care facility + Community Center A SUSTAINABLE, ADAPTIVE REUSE PROJECT WITHIN AN URBAN CONTEXT

LEN ZEGARSKI chair of architecture programs

KURT HUNKER degree project professor

VUSLAT DEMIRCAY, PHD research professor

E A S T V I L L AG E A N I M A L C A R E FAC I L I T Y & C O M M U N I T Y C E N T E R

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AUTHOR’S NOTE I first began to think of animal shelters in comparison to pet stores. In New York City, animals adorn the storefronts and everyone admires as they walk past. Where are the adoptable animals that aren’t newborn designer puppies? In a place called the “pound.” Why were there passersby affectionately eying the puppies at the pet store, but the “pound” had this negative and sad connotation to it? And where were the pounds? Certainly not at street level with animals in the storefronts. The shelter has received little architectural attention in the past and is usually thought of as animals behind small enclosures with chain link fencing. The typology is changing and facilities should be designed as community hubs rather than as places for abandoned pets to sit and wait for new homes. I hope to prove that architectural considerations and programmatic changes can be made to create a new animal shelter typology.

COVID-19 At the time of this project the COVD-19 pandemic was enforcing stay-athome orders across the world. The silver lining was the high increase in pet adoptions. Shelters across the US were cleared for the first time. Being in home confinement resulted in an increase for pet companionship and gave people the time to care for the pets they have always wanted.


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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS THANK YOU TO: Kurt Hunker, for your continual guidance, support, expert advice, discussions, and teachings throughout the degree project and in all my three years at NewSchool. Vuslat Demircay, for your assistance and instruction throughout the research and project book integration process. Everyone who sat on my jury for this degree project book, especially James Murray, Ric Davy, Rich Nowicki, Raul Diaz, and Mike Stepner, for expert advice, input, information, and critique. My studio cohort, for support, suggestions, and encouragement especially in the late hours of the night. Jett, my scruffy, rescue dog for inspiring this whole project. My grandmother, thank you for always believing in me. Cent’ anni.

E A S T V I L L AG E A N I M A L C A R E FAC I L I T Y & C O M M U N I T Y C E N T E R

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table of CONTENTS

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER TWO

RESEARCH STUDIES 9

THE HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND 20

CHAPTER FOUR

CASE STUDIES

CHAPTER FIVE

SITE ANALYSIS

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

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DESIGN IMPLEMENTATION 35

CONCLUSION 54

E A S T V I L L AG E A N I M A L C A R E FAC I L I T Y & C O M M U N I T Y C E N T E R

CHAPTER THREE

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chapter ONE

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INTRODUCTION 1.1

PROJECT STATEMENT

1.2

PROBLEM STATEMENT

1.3

CRITICAL POSITION

1.4

GOALS

1.5

CHALLENGES

INTRODUCTION

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THE LOVE FOR ALL LIVING CREATURES IS THE MOST NOBLE ATTRIBUTE OF MAN.

CHARLES DARWIN


INTRODUCTION

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It’s buzzing with positive energy here. Everyone is in good spirits, some people enjoy a cup of coffee, others grab a beer on the rooftop. Children are practicing how to read and vets in training are learning how to microchip cats. Visitors bend down to pat heads and scratch bellies. Downtown dwellers are surrounded by adoptable animals or watching their own pets romp around.

Welcome to the East Village Animal Care Facility and Community Center.


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1.1 PROJECT STATEMENT This project is the creation of a new and meaningful animal shelter typology that will encourage increased adoption rates by establishing a supportive and inspiring environment for sheltered animals and for the variety of people who pass by, visit, work and volunteer at the facility. The project will provide a better work environment for staff and volunteers, will integrate an educational program for the public, will seek dynamic interaction between humans and animals, and create an overall better shelter experience.

FIGURE 1.1: “Animal Shelter� from MUTTS Comic Strip by Patrick McDonnell (Datko 2016)

INTRODUCTION

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1.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT Approximately 7.6 million cats and dogs (3.9 million dogs and 3.4 million cats) enter animal shelters across the United States every year. This number is divided by the estimated 13,600 community animal shelters nationwide, averaging to about 558 animals per shelter. Roughly one quarter of these animals are adopted each year (ASPCA, 2016). Another problem shelters face is pet relinquishment. Many owners aren’t aware of the time, money, and patience required to train and care for an animal. The current association with animal shelters is the dismal, depressing conditions that the animals are subjugated to. The “jail-like” kennels are often pushed to the interior or the backs of the buildings, are very loud and cramped spaces with no exposure to sunlight, green spaces, or fresh air. The living conditions are unstable, have negative impacts on the overall health and wellbeing of the animals and do not encourage adoption in most cases. Unhappy animals make for unhappy staff and ultimately people will not want to adopt. The facilities themselves are usually on the outskirts of town or in rural neighborhoods, which doesn’t allow for foot traffic or knowing that the exist. Going to these facilities can be uncomfortable and ultimately encourage people to purchase a pet from another source, such as a breeder or pet store. FIGURE 1.2: Adopt Don’t Shop. By author, 2020

INTRODUCTION

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1.3 CRITICAL POSITION In order to increase adoption rates, animals and people alike need to be happy and comfortable in their surroundings. To reverse the typology and break down shelter stereotypes, kennels will be placed along the perimeter of the building gaining access to sunlight and fresh air, which is currently lacking in standard shelters. Other functions, such as offices, will be placed on the interior of the building. The location of the building is another key aspect to the project. The site is an existing library in a downtown environment that has since been abandoned since 2013. By creating a shelter downtown, foot traffic will increase significantly, which will result in more adoptions, volunteering, and donations. Key programming considerations, such as community space, cafes, and a rooftop garden, will also benefit and incentive people to come to the shelter. Over the following decades, public attitudes toward animal welfare, low-cost spay/neuter policies, and responsible pet ownership evolved. An educational component will spread awareness of animal welfare in order to address many challenges associated with current animal shelters, such as pet relinquishment. A systematic approach of public education, animal spay/ neutering, fund raising, and marketing of available animals will be set in place. A kids area for children to visit on field trips and learn about how to best care for animals is another way to spread public awareness of animal welfare.


Better design doesn’t just help the dogs who live there but it’s also beneficial for the people who visit, volunteer, and work at the shelter. For staff, play and rest areas that keep dogs more comfortable and stress free help create a calmer and safer work environment. Facilities that are pleasant to be in also naturally attract increased volunteer interest. Hutchison claims that “real-life rooms, well-designed kennels, and other features help volunteers and staff work with animals in a non-threatening, comfortable environment.” (Monahan 2014). Facilities that are cheerful, light and welcoming also create a more pleasant experience for visitors who are turned off by the “sad factor” of entering a shelter, expecting to find dogs in prison-like conditions. Kennels with home-like furnishings or enough space for chairs, for example, allow people to interact with the adoptables more easily and feel comfortable taking the time they need to get to know their potential companions. In concurrence with these trends, the enhancement of facility design can increase adoption numbers, reduce euthanasia rates and create a better experience for both animals and visitors. (Monahan, 2013). The typology is changing and facilities should be designed as more of a community center and hub rather than what the current association is with a place for abandoned pets waiting for new homes.

INTRODUCTION

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02 FRESH AIR & DAYLIGHT

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03 INSPIRING ENVIRONMENT

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INCREASE ADOPTION

ANIMAL FOCUSED GOALS

SOCIALIZATION + INTERACTION

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SUSTAINABILITY

COMMUNITY

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05 RETAIL + MARKETING

MIXED USE

FACILITY FOCUSED GOALS


1.4 GOALS The main goal is to create a new typology and challenge the traditional notion and stereotype around animal shelters and how they are run by making them an interactive experience within an urban context and more community focused. The facility will create a temporary home for adoptable animals that increases their comfort, will educate people in animal welfare and become a hub for downtown residents to gather and socialize with their pets. Each goal aligns with various challenges associated with current shelters.

FIGURE 1.3: Goals. By author, 2020.

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01 Increase adoption rates while reducing euthanasia

02 Provide animals with access to fresh air and natural light

03 Engage the community, increase visitors, and foot traffic and provide a hub for people to gather and socialize with their pets as well as educate people on animal welfare

04 Provide animals access to significant human interaction as well as socialization with other animals


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05 Bring a retail mindset to visitors by activating storefront facade with animals as well as market available animals

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Achieve and implement net-zero and other sustainability measures by understanding benefits of life cycle costs

Create a healthy and inspiring environment for animals and for people who will visit and work there.

FIGURE 1.4: Icons. By author, 2020.

08 Incorporate mixed-use activities to engage community and foster animal-human connection


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“

BECAUSE OF THEIR UNIQUE SERVICES, ANIMAL SHELTERS MUST HAVE THE DISEASEPREVENTION COMPONENTS OF A HOSPITAL, THE FUNCTIONAL CAPABILITIES OF A POLICE STATION, AND THE USER-FRIENDLY APPEAL OF A LIBRARY.

GEOFFREY L. HANDY (HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE UNITED STATES)


1.5 CHALLENGES The most common problem and challenge is that people don’t know the shelters exist due to lack of foot traffic and their locations. Other general challenges include dispelling stereotypes and myths about shelters and shelter dogs and the lack of architectural and landscape architecture consideration the typology has received in the past. Some myths include “animal shelters are too depressing” or “you aren’t going to find what you want at a shelter” among many others. (Stively 2015). Historically, shelters have gotten little architectural consideration. The typical shelter has a very utilitarian approach, usually a concrete building with chain-link kennels, which reflects this inattention. Most of these buildings provide few areas for play, enrichment and human interaction, which can result in behavioral issues. (Monahan 2013). There has also been very little research and case studies on the design and development of dog parks and the enrichment they provide. Another significant issue that animal shelters face is the disproportionate amount of money being brought into the shelter through funding and donations, compared to the cost of maintaining the shelter.

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FREEDOM FROM HUNGER AND THIRST: by readily available access to fresh water and food to maintain health, specific to each animal.

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FREEDOM FROM FEAR AND DISTRESS: by ensuring good mental health, which can transition into physical illness if not addressed.

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FREEDOM TO EXPRESS NORMAL BEHAVIOR: by providing sufficient space, proper equipment and social interaction with other animals and people.

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*FREEDOMS OF ANIMAL WELFARE

FREEDOM FROM DISCOMFORT: by providing an appropriate environment for that specific animal.

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FREEDOM FROM PAIN, INJURY, AND DISEASE: by prevention, rapid diagnosis and treatment of all animals includes vaccinations, monitoring them and their physical health, treating injuries and providing the appropriate medications.


WELLNESS CHALLENGES: • Staff: An adequate number of trained professionals to be on staff • Health Standards: The facility must maintain strict health and safety standards as well as implement the disease prevention measures of a hospital • The 5 Freedoms of Animal Welfare*: These standards are internationally accepted measures of care that assert every living being’s right to human treatment. They were developed in the UK by Britain’s Farm Animal Welfare Council in 1965 for farm animals and adapted worldwide by the Association of Shelter Veterinarians for animals housed in shelters. The Five Freedoms meet both mental and physical needs of all animals. (Animal Humane Society). DESIGN APPLICATION OF THE 5 FREEDOMS* 01. Incorporate interstitial work spaces for staff and volunteers to prepare food as well as storage spaces for easy access to different food for different animals. 02. Ensure kennel and enclosures have a variety of spaces and elements within them such as rest areas with bedding. Ensure kennels are properly temperature controlled, have sufficient noise mitigation, and access to natural light. 03. Provide an in-house veterinary facility within the building to properly treat illnesses and injuries as well as spay and neutering services. Provide an isolate and quarantine area for sick animals to prevent the spread of disease. 04. Design adequate space for social interaction, play and exercise, as well as a training area to promote good behavior so animals are seen as more adoptable. Kennels, at a minimum, need to be spacious enough for animals to fully stretch their bodies. 05. These can be achieved by providing environmental enrichment, hiding spaces within enclosures, and not overcrowding the facilities. FIGURE 1.5: The Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare. By author, 2020.

INTRODUCTION

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SITE AND FACILITY CHALLENGES: • Location: People often aren’t aware that the shelters exist due to their locations and the lack of foot traffic and accessibility to the public. • Experience: Typically a drab experience and aesthetic both inside and outside. Facilities are not cheerful, light or welcoming and do not create pleasant experience for volunteers or for visitors, expecting to find dogs in prison-like conditions. • Size: Facilities must not be too big, which can cause unnecessary maintenance and staffing demands, and must not be too small, which can cause overcrowding and/or excessive distress to the animals. • Odor: Foul odor is often caused by poorly designed waste systems, floor drain placement, material choices, and poor ventilation systems. • Noise: Excessive noise control should be mitigated both internally and externally as to not cause stress to animals, staff, volunteers and visitors. • Maintenance: Animal shelters often fall into a state of despair due to lack of maintenance and general upkeep with the facility.


ANIMAL CHALLENGES: • Interaction: The lack of human interaction and lack of socialization with other animals • Enrichment: few areas for play, enrichment, training, exercising and walking • Atmosphere: Lack of access to natural daylight, ventilation • Enclosures/Kennels: Should be accommodating for different types of animals, of different sizes, for varying lengths of time. Currently, they are often overcrowded or too small for the animal. Kennels are not designed with home-like furnishings, which can make animals will feel more at home when adopted. • Numbers: The amount of animals in the shelter is imperative. Shelters should never operate at more than 80%. Having too many animals in the shelter has negative impacts is more costly, more likely of spreading disease and not enough personal attention is given to each animal.

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COST CHALLENGES: • Aesthetic: Increasing the aesthetic appeal can cost more money, but can also lead to increases in adoption and volunteer numbers and hours. • Donations: Animal shelters rely heavily on volunteers and donations. The amount of money being brought into the shelter through funding and donations is often significantly less than the amount it takes to run the shelter. • City Agencies: Control the construction budget and will require a longer review process, which in turn, costs more money. (Murdock 2011). The Staten Island Animal Care Facility didn’t break ground until 2013 and is still under construction when it was scheduled to be completed in 2011. (Henry 2011). • Basic Expenses: These include food, toys, bedding, collars and leashes, and cleaning supplies. Many of these can be donated. • Medical: Medical necessities include vaccinations, spay/neutering, microchipping, initial exams and checkups, as well as many other illnesses and injuries that animals might come in with or develop. • Operations and Staff: The typical salary range is low, which also gets lowered by taxes, benefits, and insurance. A fair amount of budget should be allocated towards advertising, supplies, and general maintenance. • Sustainability: Sustainable measures cost more upfront, but can save money over the life cycle of the building through energy savings and maintenance requirements (DoggyCrap 2019).


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FIGURE 1.5: Donations. By author, 2020.

COST The cost of running an animal shelter is perhaps the biggest issue that they face. While designing a shelter that includes enriching features can cost more money, certain elements may save money over the long-term through energy savings, an increase in volunteer numbers and/or hours, or reduced medical expenses.


chapter TWO

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RESEARCH STUDIES 2.1

HISTORY OF HUMANE SOCIETIES

2.2

CONTEMPORARY SHELTER LIFE

2.3

EMOTIONS AND BEHAVIOR

2.4

BREED STEREOTYPES

2.5

VOLUNTEERING

RESEARCH STUDIES

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UNTIL ONE HAS LOVED AN ANIMAL, A PART OF ONE’S SOUL REMAINS UNAWAKENED.

ANATOLE FRANCE (FRENCH POET)


A few thousand years ago, friendly wolves would help humans with labor and hunting while some provided companionship. These wolves evolved into the domesticated dog. A few hundred years ago, when animals were still seen as laborers and mass animal executions were the public entertainment, an American Diplomat named Henry Bergh decided to put an end to animal cruelty. He worked tirelessly to make the world a better place, especially for animals. Fast forward to today’s society where attitudes towards dogs and other animals and their welfare has drastically shifted. They are now seen as yoga companions, they are attuned to humans, and can even feel empathy and be used for therapy. The canid evolution speaks volumes to dogs becoming our best friends and part of our families. As dogs and other pets continue to occupy our hearts and homes, institutions, businesses and cities have followed suit.

RESEARCH STUDIES

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ASPCA MILESTONES 1866

Henry Bergh founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

1912

The ASPCA opens it’s first veterinary facility in New York.

1941

The ASPCA initiates dog training and obedience classes

1973

The ASPCA begins spay and neuter services for adopted animals

1993

The ASPCA is the first organization to begin using microchips for animal identification.

2005

The ASPCA aids in rescue and recovery after Hurricane Katrina, and grants over $13 million to shelters and organizations in the area.

2007

The ASPCA assists in the federal investigation of major dog-fighting operations

2014

The ASPCA makes a $25 million commitment to Los Angeles to help tackle the city’s homeless animal crisis


In the late 19th century, Henry Bergh began to protest the mistreatment of animals in the United States. Most often strays were subject to cruel deaths such as clubbing and drowning, which were often public gatherings. Dog fighting and cockfighting were common forms of entertainment. Bergh believed there urgently needed to be a law against animal cruelty and one that would give animals legal protection as a consequence to cruelty. He also believed there should be an organization to enforce these laws as a necessary measure promote humane education, change people’s perceptions towards cruelty, and for people to recognize and report cruelty to animals. In 1866, he wrote the “Declaration of the Rights of Animals” (Curtis 1984). He was able to gain enough support and a law against animal cruelty was approved. Around the same time, the first animal humane organization, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), was formed and approved by New York lawmakers. Many more humane organizations followed over the years. However, it wasn’t until 1966 that the Animal Welfare Act was passed. It is the only federal law that regulates the treatment of animals used in research. AN APPLAUSE FOR THE CAUSE The ASPCA has made significant strides in the welfare of abused, abandoned, and neglected animals. These milestones include aiding animals in disaster relief efforts, and raiding puppy mills and dog fighting operations. FIGURE 2.1: High Five. By author, 2020

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2.1 HISTORY OF HUMANE ORGANIZATIONS


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2.2 CONTEMPORARY SHELTER LIFE An estimated 670,000 dogs are euthanized each year in the US alone. This number is the result of a variety of factors, including overpopulation and not being able to find homes for the dogs (Keim 2020). Pets wind up in shelters for many reasons. These reasons include irresponsible breeding, choosing not to adopt from a rescue group or shelter, buying a pet from another source, such as a pet store, pets becoming unwanted due to thoughtless and uninformed owners, and most significantly, because of “people problems,” such as a divorce. One study reported that most behavioral problems that resulted in the top three reasons for bringing a pet back to the shelter after adoption were aggression, fearfulness, and hyperactivity, which all can be assuaged by basic training, care, bonding, and patience. Some of these behaviors could be linked to a stressful shelter environment as well as a change to a new environment, especially if the owner lacks experience and knowledge of caring for a new pet (Miklosi 2007). Adopters who maintained the animal as opposed to bringing them back to the shelter reported a significant positive change in behavior after six months. This same study concluded that the majority of animals returned happened in the first two weeks. These results suggest that mere patience and time spent integrating a new pet into a new family was a beneficial solution to shelter environment (Vitulová, Voslárová, Vecerek, & Bedánová 2018). FIGURE 2.2: Animal Shelter. By author, 2020.


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FIGURE 2.3: “Fannie” from Mutts “Shelter Stories” Comic Strip by Patrick McDonnell

Currently, less than 20% of people who own pets have adopted while the other 80% have purchased the pet from a breeder or pet store (American Humane Society). Animals are often relinquished to the shelter due to the owner being unaware of financial and time requirements needed to properly care and train an animal. An unprepared owner can construct misconceptions about behavior. Dogs are sometimes purchased on a whim or given as gifts and can be abandoned and relinquished just as easily for simply being too noisy or not being able to control their bladders (Keim 2020). In some instances an owner may choose to abandon them on the street as opposed to bringing them to a shelter, which causes a series of other problems. This further emphasizes the importance of educated owners being willing to put the time and dedication in to becoming their future pet’s mom or dad. A domesticated animal being on the street can mean more breeding of other stray animals, a lack of food


source resulting in disease or death, causing harm to other animals or people (directly or indirectly), and more. The more these problems persist, the more overpopulation occurs, both in the shelter and on the street. Population control within the shelter can be mitigated through more adoptions of older animals as well as making sure animals are spayed and neutered. One important myth to dispel about shelter animals is that people believe most animals in shelters are there because of the dog’s behavioral issues or because of abuse. The truth is that the majority of reasons animals end up in shelters is usually the result of their owners not being able to take care of them anymore. These problems include particular, personal situations, such as loss of finances/income, divorce or family problems, new housing restrictions that limit certain breeds, death of an owner, etc. The silver lining to these situations, however, is that the pets are usually already house trained and might know other basic commands, which can be an advantage for someone who wants companionship but doesn’t necessarily have the time to train a new puppy. A well run shelter will also usually provide basic training, house training, as well as socialization so that the animals are more marketable and adoptable.

SHELTER DOG MYTH #1: “DOGS AT THE SHELTER ARE THERE BECAUSE SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THEM.”

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FIGURE 2.4: “Sweetie” from Mutts “Shelter Stories” Comic Strip by Patrick McDonnell

Simply put, an animal shelter is a place that provides temporary housing for stray, and abandoned animals. The term “temporary” varies from animal to animal. Studies have found that the amount of time an animal has been at the shelter has a direct correlation on it’s behavior. Unfortunately, the animals that need homes the most, the ones that have been in the shelter the longest, are usually the animals that are most overlooked. One study examined the influence of the length of time spent in the shelter to the behavior of dogs and concluded that there was a significant relationship. Dogs who had been at the shelter the longest spent more time in the back of their kennels and resting while dogs who were at the shelter for less time spent more time towards the front of the kennel being active. Age was not a factor in this study, suggesting that the dog’s environment was responsible for the behavior. The more time at the shelter resulted in more behavior often considered unattractive to potential adopters, decreasing the animal’s chances of being


adopted and thus spending even more time at the shelter (Wells, Hepper, Graham 2002). Dogs who spend a lot of time in the shelter can also develop stereotypies, which are repetitive movements that have no purpose, such as pacing in their kennel. A lack of stereotypies can mean that an animal is doing well in his/her environment. Stereotypies are also common in children with autism and animals in zoos or other forms of captivity. Ironically, one study found that wolves born in the wild who were then placed in captivity developed less stereotypies than animals who were born in captivity, because animals born in the wild had fully developed brains and were mentally stimulated as cubs (Grandin, T. & Johnson, C. 2010). This demonstrates the importance of brain development and stimulation, socialization, and environmental factors for young animals.

DOMESTICATION AND DISCIPLINE Canis lupus familiaris, commonly known as dogs, are the descendants of wolves. Wolves were once thought to be pack animals where the pack is led by an alpha male. However, recent studies prove that this is not the case. Wolves are a family-oriented animal where there is a mom and dad who lead their cubs. Just like human children, dogs need good leaders as their owners. A dog doesn’t need an alpha leader but needs a parent to set rules, limits, guide good behaviors and manners. When a human child is undisciplined the child is often out of control. The same goes for dogs. Dogs also need stimulation and boundaries throughout their lives, because they don’t grow up mentally once they are done growing physically (Grandin, T. & Johnson, C. 2010).

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2.3 EMOTIONS AND BEHAVIOR Another reason for the high euthanasia rates, which has actually gone down significantly in the past decade because of animal welfare education, is due to the misconception that an animal is “aggressive,” which is usually the result of fearfulness and/or anxiousness (Figure 2.5). Breeders who fail to provide proper maternal care for puppies can result in dogs growing up to have behavioral problems and eventually wind up at the shelter (Keim 2020). One neuroscience study showed that “core” emotions drive behavior. These systems of core emotions include anger, fear, social attachment, and “seeking,” and are considered “core” emotions because they always stimulate the same behavioral sequences. An animal’s environment should always activate the positive emotion of “seeking,” which stimulates searching, investigating, exploring, understanding one’s environment, and anticipating rewards, as much as possible. The same environment, in contrast, should dissuade the negative emotions of anger, fear, and social attachment, any more than is necessary. Anger is associated with rage and frustration, which could be the result of being tethered or locked up. Fear is an emotion that results from an animal’s survival being threatened. A common misconception about aggressive dogs is that they are mean, but in most cases, they are simply fearful or anxious. Lastly, the emotion of social attachment is correlated to panic, often from being left alone (Grandin, T. & Johnson, C. 2010). Dogs become attached to their humans and


SHELTER DOG MYTH #2: “ANIMAL SHELTERS ARE TOO DEPRESSING”

FIGURE 2.5: “Friday” from Mutts “Shelter Stories” Comic Strip by Patrick McDonnell, 2017

EUTHANASIA RATES IN THE US Approximately 3.3 million dogs (the equivalent of about one out of every 25 pets) are relinquished to shelters each year, and an estimated 670,000 are euthanized. While this number sounds high, there was an estimated 4 million dogs that were admitted in 2011 and the euthanasia rate was about 10 times higher than it is now. Cultural attitudes have drastically changed towards animal adoption, which helps decrease these numbers. The education of spaying and neutering and the popularity of rescuing over purchasing have also helped mitigate overpopulation and euthanasia. Many people still prefer certain breeds, but more and more people are finding happiness in providing for a pet in need (Keim 2020).

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a dog’s person or owner acts as a source of safety and comfort. Once a dog has a foundation of feeling safe and comfortable, they are able to express confidence and will feel confident in exploring their surroundings. The opposite would apply to a dog who lacks that safety and security (Keim 2020). Other emotions include lust and a sexual desire to mate, care and maternal instincts, and play. An animal’s desire to mate, care for it’s young, and play are all assurances to positive mental and physical welfare within the environment. When dogs play, not only is it fun and providing them with ample exercise, they are also practicing how to communicate, share, build relationships, and learn about their environments and their bodies (Keim 2020). These emotions are significant, but they aren’t present throughout an animal’s entire life so they aren’t considered to be “core” emotions. Neuroscientists agree that if we can understand an animal’s FIGURE 2.6: Comfy Expensive Dog. Uhorm Am 2019


emotions, we can have fewer behavioral problems (Grandin, T. & Johnson, C. 2010). Circling back to the five freedoms of animal welfare, it is often difficult to give them the freedom to express normal behavior. For dogs, this might be roaming freely, which humans restrict in order to protect a dog’s safety and address the concerns with overpopulation and the problems that roaming freely induces. Instead owners and shelter should think about how to satisfy the emotion of “seeking” associated with the behavior. Focusing on the dog’s emotion instead of the behavior could be key to understanding how to train dogs and provide stimulating mental and physical welfare. Keeping an animal occupied and stimulating the “seeking” and play emotions can keep an animal from developing stereotypies and other behavioral concerns. Dogs are social creatures, so it’s no surprise that they are social learners. They pick up commands often by a hand gesture rather than a word. They can also learn by watching humans and other dogs, which is another essential aspect to training, especially when it comes to shelter dogs (Keim 2020). Often people have a notion of exactly what breed of dog they want. They grew up watching 101 Dalmatians and always wanted a Dalmatian. Or maybe they always wanted a Great Dane, because of it’s large size and calm demeanor. One thing that people don’t realize, in the case of a Dalmatian, is they require

SHELTER DOG MYTH #3: “YOU AREN’T GOING TO FIND WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR AT A SHELTER.”

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2.4 BREED STEREOTYPES a great deal of training and exercise that might not work with a family that has small children. In the case of a Great Dane, perhaps the owner is forced to move and the lease contains breed restrictions that include Great Danes. These dogs can very frequently wind up at an animal shelter, and can still make wonderful companions to the right adopter. There is still a lot of breed stereotyping as well, especially when it comes to pit bulls. One study found that by removing the breed from a dog’s identification tag enabled a surge in pit bull adoptions by more than 25%, allowing adopters to see the potential in the animal through their personality and removing the stereotype (Keim 2020). One photographer decided to flower crowns on pit bulls to break down the stereotype that they are an aggressive or violent breed (Figure). A dog from a breeder is almost always

FIGURE 2.7: “Reggie” from Mutts “Shelter Stories” Comic Strip by Patrick McDonnell, 2015


upwards of $1000, not including the shots and vaccines that a new dog requires (Figure ). A shelter usually only asks for a donation or requires a small fee to help the shelter run efficiently. Puppies typically cost more than adult dogs, because they are easier to adopt. At the shelter, dogs and cats are always spayed and neutered and often microchipped, which comes at no cost to future adopters. Pet stores and breeders don’t usually offer health services prior to the animals being bought. It’s also common for shelter dogs and mixed breeds to have significantly less health risks than purebred dogs due to inbreeding. This is because some breeds are derived from few FIGURE 2.8: Luther. Photographer Sophie Gamand, 2014

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FIGURE 2.9 “Bowser” from Mutts “Shelter Stories” Comic Strip by Patrick McDonnell

archetypal individuals from small gene pools, which results in inbreeding and hereditary defects. Certain dogs are selected for their extreme characteristics, such as the flat snout common in English bulldogs and French bulldogs who are now prone to breathing disorders (Keim 2020).The shelters have constant veterinary care and want to ensure that the animals are in peak condition so they can be adopted easily. Pet stores almost always get their puppies from puppy mills where disease, such as parvovirus, pneumonia, and parasites is prevalent. Puppy mills are horrible places that are unsanitary and overcrowded (think: chicken coops, but with puppies), an often overlooked concept since the pet stores separate the consumers mindset from the reality of mass produced designer dogs. The more that people buy from pet stores, the more the marketplace turns to puppy mills and healthy, wonderful shelter pets get overlooked. (Plesset & Jankiewicz 2017).


The current attitude today is that people view their pets as if they were their children or “fur babies.” Radical progress has been made in terms of punishments and laws from the time Henry Bergh influenced the first Humane Organization in 1866. In fact all fifty states recognize trusts that people can set up for their pets, meaning that should an animal’s caregiver pass away, money is set aside for the animal. Other strides have been made including animal cruelty being considered a felony as opposed to a misdemeanor across the US. The UK has even banned the sales of dogs that come from puppy mills, which is a topic the US has been reassessing for some years now. However, there are still practices considered inhumane that still go on in today. Dogs and other animals, like mice and primates, all over the world are still used to test experiments, products and treatments, which is a topic in constant debate and reevaluation. As a society, we’ve made important achievements in the welfare of animals, which we owe to them for the love and happiness they bring into our lives. FIGURE 2.10: Health Checks. Myerson, 2019

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FIGURE 2.11: “Sweetie” from Mutts “Shelter Stories” Comic Strip by Patrick McDonnell, 2016

2.5 VOLUNTEERING One of the main challenges of a shelter is cost; the cost of financing and running the shelter as well as staffing people to work there. Therefore, volunteers are perhaps the shelter’s most valuable resource. Volunteers are typically people who have a passion for animals and dedicate their time at a shelter when they don’t have the resources to adopt or donate. Volunteers can be engaged in any number of tasks across the shelter, including socializing, training, walking, paperwork, cleaning, providing education, etc. that are invaluable to a shelter and ultimately, helps to save lives. A dog’s personality can shine for a potential adopter if an animal is socialized both with humans and other animals (imagine a dog running to greet a potential adopter versus a dog who just stays towards the back of the kennel). Human


interaction provides enrichment in the animal’s social skills, and trained dogs improve in their behavior, making an animal more attractive to a potential adopter. Testing how a dog does with children and other animals is a key consideration for many adopters. For the large San Diego homeless population, it’s possible to have a homeless volunteer program to help with volunteering work, which can help give them a sense of purpose as well as the therapeutic feeling that animals can provide. An improvement in facility design and environmental quality can help to socialize animals, increase adoptions, reduce animal returns, and attract volunteers.

FIGURE 2.12: Volunteering. By author, 2020

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chapter THREE

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3.1

EMPATHY AND THERAPY

3.2

HEALTH BENEFITS

3.3

PET OWNERSHIP

3.4

PET FRIENDLY CITIES

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THE HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND


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“

PETTING, SCRATCHING, AND CUDDLING A DOG COULD BE AS SOOTHING TO THE MIND AND HEART AS DEEP MEDITATION AND ALMOST AS GOOD FOR THE SOUL AS PRAYER.

DEAN KOONTZ


Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs states that people need a sense of love and belonging. Not only can animals also experience and need love and belonging but they can also provide these to humans in need. Animals can help to build community and provide therapy, help reduce stress levels and decrease anxiety in many situations. Dogs and other pets can provide emotional support, be used in therapy, service, law enforcement and in the military. Research and science are proving that dogs feel a wide range of emotions including empathy, which makes them attuned to humans. Their senses and brains, through the process of evolution and domestication, have made dogs in particular, adept in being amazing companions.

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3.1 EMPATHY AND THERAPY People across the globe experience loneliness, isolation, and depression. These feelings can cause negative health effects both physically and mentally. Researchers from Mars PetCare and the Human Animal Bond Research Institute are saying these can be combated through human-animal interaction (HAI) and pet ownership (dvm360 2020). The healing power of dogs is not just evident in those who experience loneliness and/or depression. Recent discoveries are pointing towards companion animals and therapy animals significantly impacting the lives of children with autism, veterans experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people in hospitals (Figure 3.1), and more. Through one study, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) living with a companion dog were found to have better social skills and decreased anxiety. According to the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, there is currently extensive research being done to examine whether or not shelter cats adopted by families who have children with ASD can see the same results. In every adoption situation, whether it be dog or cat or another animal type, is about the right fit for both the family and the animal. One of the most fascinating things about dogs is their ability to be attuned to human moods and emotions. The science behind an animal’s senses and brain functions can be the reason for their keen sensitivity to our behaviors and feelings. For example, a dog’s sense of scent can recognize people even after they haven’t seen


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FIGURE 3.1: Healing Power of Dogs. By author, 2020


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them in a long time. Their amazing ability to pick up a scent can also pick up on our hormonal changes that can emit fear or distress. Their brains possess the ability to read the facial expressions we make. These are all forms of empathy, which have been developed through evolution and domestication and are not entirely innate, but still incredible nonetheless. The ability to empathize requires the right environment and experiences, which is compelling in regards to shelter animals (Figure 3.2). Dogs in shelters might not be as attuned to us, they might not follow a human gesture or gaze, because they haven’t had the right experience or environment to learn how to cultivate these reactions (Keim 2020). However, people have a misconception that dogs are automatically attuned to us, because of what they know from past experiences, which might deter them from adopting a great shelter pet who might seem a little aloof at first. FIGURE 3.2: Mutts “Shelter Comics� by Patrick McDonnell


“NO MATTER HOW COMPLETELY DIFFERENT WE ARE, IF YOU HAVE DOGS IN COMMON IT CUTS THROUGH WHATEVER ELSE YOU MIGHT THINK WOULD BE A BARRIER. WE’RE DIFFERENT PEOPLE, WE COME FROM DIFFERENT CULTURES, WE SPEAK DIFFERENT LANGUAGES SOMETIMES, AND YET IF THERE’S A DOG IN FRONT OF US, WE CAN FIND A WAY TO CONNECT,” SAYS AUTHOR KEN FOSTER.

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Once these sensitivities can be expressed through environment and experience, a dog’s open heart, immense affection and desire to comfort can ultimately be their defining characteristic. Another characteristic that defines why humans love dogs so much is the dog’s ability to communicate. One study showed a convincing correlation between dogs who were able to give “puppy dog eyes” and adoption (Keim 2020). Dogs have fairly good memories and the ability to remember individuals, their characteristics and features, as well as their interactions with that individual (Keim 2020). This can be sufficient evidence when it comes to how shelters are run. It might be beneficial for consistent volunteers and staff members to work with the same animals so they can feel more comfortable and be able to express their normal behavior and personalities. On the contrary, it has also been suggested that animals move around the shelter to prevent them from becoming attached to a certain place, which can help them adjust to a new home once adopted (Schlaffer & Bonacci, 2003).


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Animals, especially dogs, are able to express emotions and they are profoundly emotional and social creatures. They have a large capacity for positive emotions such as happiness and love, but they can also experience negative emotions such as sadness, fear, anger, loneliness, anxiety, and boredom, which are all often due to being left alone. Patricia McConnell, a trained animal behaviorist, suggests that dogs need at least of hour of attention a day from their owners. This can include walks, play, learning new tricks, agility training and more. It’s important to exercise their minds as well as their bodies. Since dogs have been domesticated, they need play, they need opportunities to learn and explore, and they need people to provide these things for them (Grandin 2010). Some research even suggests that dogs can experience more complex negative emotions such as grief, sorrow, and heartbreak, which further proposes their propensity for empathy (Figure 3.3). No case of heartbreak is perhaps greater than that of Hachiko the Akita, whose story is on the opposite page (Figure 3.4). When dogs are comforting patients FIGURE 3.3: Emotional Support. By author, 2020


A professor at Tokyo Imperial University, Ueno Eizaburo, adopted an Akita named Hachiko. Every morning, Hachiko would walk Ueno to the Shibuya train station and would greet him at the train station when he returned from work. One day Ueno collapsed at work and died from a brain hemorrhage. Hachiko showed up at the station only for his owner to not get off the train. Hachiko continued to show up at the train station waiting for Ueno for almost a decade after his death. One of Ueno’s former students caught wind of the dog waiting for his owner and decided to visit the train station only to find that Hachiko was in fact there everyday at the same time. The student published the story and it soon became national news. People came from allover to greet Hachiko and give him treats. When Hachiko died, his ashes were buried with Ueno’s and they were once again reunited. Hachiko’s memory lives on in a museum where his fur was stuffed, as a statue in the spot where he waited for his owner everyday, in another statue in Hachiko’s hometown, and as a statue of him jumping on Ueno near the University where Ueno taught (Figure 3..) The story was also adapted into several movies including one in the US starring Richard Gere and Joan Allen. The beloved Hachiko’s bold faithfulness continues to resonate with people worldwide (Dimuro 2020). FIGURE 3.4: Hachiko statue and photo. (Dimuro, 2020).

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A HEARTWARMING TALE OF LOYALTY AND COMPANIONSHIP


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in distress, it’s because they are able to feel their pain. The same goes for stress levels. One study found that when their people were high strung or stressed, the dog was often the same way with no influence based on personality or breed of the dog (Keim 2020). Emotions have been proven through neuroscience by studying brain activity in dogs (Keim 2020). When dogs are happy, a part of the brain known as the caudate nucleus becomes active. The caudate nuclei (one on each side of the brain) is associated with motor functions as well as feelings of pleasure, positive expectations, rewards, satisfaction of learning, and goal directed behavior. This part of the brain contributes to choosing actions that will most likely lead to a positive reward (Grahn J, Parkinson J & Owen A 2008). Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a type of therapy that involves animals with specific characteristics as providing positive effects on different kinds of patients, such as a seeing eye dog for the visually impaired and a hearing ear dog who are able to alert people to certain noises. Interactions between animals and patients has had positive effects on physiological, psychological, and social aspects of wellbeing (Fine 2010). AAT has produced physical benefits to patients with cardiovascular disease as well as mental disorders such as dementia and depression and schizophrenia (Calvo 2016). It has also been suggested that AAT develops a beneficial relationship between patients and the healthcare professionals as animals act as social facilitators and improve the overall atmosphere (Fine 2010). Animals can promote social interactions


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FIGURE 3.5: Service Dog. By author adapted from Freepik, 2020.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE Dogs have also served in law enforcement, the military and on search and rescue missions. Search and rescue dogs can use their sense of smell to aid finding people after natural disasters and in law enforcement dogs are used to help sniff out explosives. In 2000 a law, Robby’s Law, was passed that ensures a dog is given a home after its service has ended after an eight year old dog no longer fit for service was euthanized.


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between people and can improve the experience between visitors, volunteers, and staff. As author Ken Foster said, “If there is a dog in front of us, we can find a way to connect.” There is also a similar concept to AAT, which is AAA (Animal Assisted Activity). This is typically a program where animals simply visit with no specific health benefits or goals other than companionship. Although the specific goals are different, both AAT and AAA programs exist in prisons, hospices, retirement homes, hospitals, homeless shelters, schools, and more (Hatch 2007). Several shelters have implemented a “Shelter Buddies” program that allows children learning to read and/or have learning disabilities come to the shelter and read to dogs, which has a beneficial relationship for the dog to gain exposure to children and human interaction (Figure). The use of pets in medical settings actually dates back more than 150 years, says Aubrey Fine, a clinical psychologist and professor at California State Polytechnic University. “One could even look at Florence Nightingale recognizing that animals provided a level of social support in the institutional care of the mentally ill,” says Fine, who has written several books on the human-animal bond. But it was only in the late 1970s that researchers started to uncover the scientific benefits of that bond. A study conducted in 1980 concluded that heart attack patients who owned pets lived longer than those who didn’t own pets, and that petting a dog has significant benefits, such as lowering blood pressure. Certain dogs have been trained to detect subtle chemical changes that can case seizures and even the odors that are brought on by cancerous cells. Other uses for therapy


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FIGURE 3.7: Shelter Buddy. By author, 2020


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dogs have included calming children who need to testify in court and soothe people who have dementia (Keim 2020). Mobility assistance dogs can help with physical tasks for people who are handicapped, have arthritis or other physically challenging conditions. Other studies have show that humans interacting with animals can increase the hormone Oxytocin, also known as the “love” or “bonding” hormone that modulates feelings of affection. At one time, a dog staring into your eyes was considered a challenge, and it still is considered to be wolves. However, when dogs look into the eyes of their person, it sets off Oxytocin production (Figure 3.9). Oxytocin is activated when a dog sees a human or another dog that they like, since this hormone can be linked to pleasure and attachment. The mutual affection enhances the humananimal bond, because dogs feel good, their people feel good. Oxytocin can be linked to a fondness for offspring, friends, mates, parents, and other forms of relationships. The Internet is flooded with videos of unlikely pairs of animals who form friendships, such as a dog and tortoise (Keim 2020) FIGURE 3.9: Oxytocin. By author, 2020


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FIGURE 3.8: Herman and Lundy. By The Mia Foundation, 2020

HERMAN THE PIGEON AND LUNDY THE CHIHUAHUA: AN UNLIKELY PAIR Herman, the pigeon, suffered neurological damage and can no longer fly. Lundy, the chihuahua, can’t use his back legs. The pair are at a rescue that specializes in rehabilitation for physical deformities and birth defects. The rescue also specializes in educating children about bullying others who may be different. The duo have sparked an interspecies bond that has enabled a large increase in donations through social media (Meredith Digital).


“MY THERAPY IS QUITE SIMPLE: I WAG MY TAIL AND LICK YOUR FACE UNTIL YOU FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOURSELF AGAIN”

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FIGURE 3.6: Therapy Dog. By Randy Glasbergen

and a the story of a pigeon who couldn’t fly and a dog who couldn’t walk (Figure 3.8). According to Rebecca Johnson, a nurse at the Research Center for Human Animal Interaction, Oyxtocin can help people feel happy, trusting, empathy and has powerful effects on the body’s willingness to heal and produce new cells. It is commonly found in high levels when a mother is breast feeding and bonding with an infant (Rovner 2012). Research shows that dogs possess a genetic mutation that is found in people who have a rare condition called Williams syndrome. One defining characteristic of Williams syndrome is an outgoing personality, high levels of sociability, and excellent communication skills (Brazier 2017).


• Vitamin D: Pet owners have increased opportunities to participate in outdoor activities, and are more likely to get outside for more walks, get more exercise, and to stay in shape than people who do not own pets. • Physical Health: Studies have shown that pet parents typically have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, lower triglyceride levels, and overall lower health risks than those that don’t own pets. One study found that heart attack and stroke patients with pets survived longer than those without pets. • Psychological Health: According to the CDC, pets can help decrease feelings of loneliness and pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression. Owning a pet can lead to better psychological health and well-being especially for seniors experiencing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and those in need of any kind of therapy, whether it be physical or emotional. Playing with a pet can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which releases feelings of calmness, relaxation, and happiness. • Quality of Life: Healthy and happy pets make for healthy and happy people, which in turn, improves the quality of life in any given neighborhood. Owning a pet increases opportunities for socializing, especially with other pets and pet parents. (Robinson, L. & Segal, J. 2019)

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3.2 HEALTH BENEFITS OF PET OWNERSHIP


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FIGURE 3.10: Pets at Work. By author adapted from Freepik, 2020

BENEFITS OF HAVING YOUR PET AT WORK: Studies have shown that having a pet at work can greatly benefit employees by boosting morale, lower stress, encourage collaboration, and increase creativity and productivity. About 20% of offices are dog-friendly including major companies like Amazon, which has almost 2,000 dogs in its Seattlebased headquarters (Huspeni 2019). For the dogs, it’s better than being home alone all day.


Pet ownership has drastically increased over the past decade. About one third of Americans own dogs, of that 63% own one dog, 25% own 2 dogs, and 12% own 3 dogs or more. More Americans own pets than have children. As of 2009, the pet industry is the second fastest growing retail industry right behind electronics. The pet industry includes food, bedding, toys, treats, health, clothing, day care, and more (Glasser 2013). The generation at child bearing ages, mainly Millennials, are not having kids right now, and are typically waiting longer to have them. They are turning to pet ownership as a less expensive means of fulfilling their maternal and paternal responsibilities (Vence, 2019). As a generation, Millennials have the most pets with about 70% having at least one pet. At the same time, the birth rate for this generation has exponentially decreased, particularly in high density cities like New York and San Francisco (Hendrix 2019). This could have a direct correlation to the high cost of living in these cities as more and more people are staying in cities and are less able to afford children than previous generations. With the rise of pet ownership comes the necessity for pet businesses, amenities, and places for owners to take their pets to exercise, play, and socialize. According to the Trust for Public Land, dog parks are the fastest growing park type in the United States.

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3.3 PET OWNERSHIP ON THE RISE


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3.4 DOG-FRIENDLY CITIES As of 2018, San Diego ranks in the top ten most pet-friendly cities in the United States. According to Wallethub, San Diego had high rankings for “pet health and wellness” and “outdoor pet-friendliness,” thanks to it’s numerous pet-friendly restaurants and local pet businesses. However, it is one of the most expensive cities in which to live and own a pet, which made San Diego drop all the way to 90 for “pet budget” rank. Primarily for that reason as well as San Diego’s poor walkability score, cities like Scottsdale, AZ and Orlando, FL came in to the top two most pet-friendly cities (Jennewein 2018).

FIGURE 3.11: Cat Nip Latte. Mutts by Patrick McDonnell


1ST

Pet businesses per capita

1ST

Dog-friendly restaurants per capita

17TH

Dog parks per capita

18TH

Veterinarians per capita

26TH

Pet caretakers per capita

29TH

Percent of pet-friendly hotels

30TH

Walkability score

51ST

Veterinary care costs

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HOW SAN DIEGO RANKED AMONG 100 MAJOR CITIES AGAINST SEVERAL METRICS (ACCORDING TO WALLETHUB):


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San Diego is full of activities that include our four-legged best friends such as agility training and paddle boarding (Figure 3.12). Almost all restaurants offer outdoor seating where dogs are allowed and water bowls are handy (Figure 3.12). Many businesses and hotel valets have dog treats waiting behind the counters and some restaurants even have dog-specific menus, such as Starbucks’ Puppacino. The climate allows for never having to walk a dog in cold weather, snow, hail, or even much rain. Even many of San Diego’s beaches serve as offleash dog parks, taking “dog friendly” to the next level. (Ram 2016). Based on the statistics on the previous page, San Diego’s pet-friendly businesses and dog friendly restaurants are the top in the country, but the city is severely lacking in care, such veterinary services and boarding, as well as in dog parks, especially in downtown. Dog parks come with their own set of benefits, for both dogs and for people. According to Animal Sheltering, people viewing and engaging in nature and landscape can result in enhanced moods and reduce mental stress, while interacting with dogs can also provide therapeutic benefits. Additionally, a landscape with more natural features provides stimulation to dogs, enabling them to release energy and reduce behavioral problems.


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FIGURE 3.12: A Dog-Friendly San Diego. Photos by Becca Batista and Paul Body (Ram, 2016).


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A map of downtown San Diego displaying all of the existing petrelated businesses including food and supply stores, daycare and boarding services, veterinary services, and the lack of green spaces pet owners have available to bring their dogs. FIGURE 3.13: Existing Dog Amenities. By author, 2020


chapter FOUR

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CASE STUDIES 4.1

S. LA ANIMAL SERVICE CENTER

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PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER

4.3

CHULA VISTA ANIMAL CARE FACILITY

4.4

OTHER FACILITIES

CASE STUDIES

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I’VE NEVER MET AN ANIMAL I DIDN’T LIKE, AND I CAN’T SAY THE SAME THING ABOUT PEOPLE.

DORIS DAY


CASE STUDIES

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The site for the project is located in downtown San Diego and several shelters in southern California were analyzed. Case studies include the South Los Angeles Animal Care Center and Community Center, The Palm Springs Animal Care Facility, and the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility. The Palm Springs Facility was visited with a guided tour from an adoption facilitator. The San Diego Humane Society was also visited and included a guided tour and an interview with the project manager. Another case study that benefited the project was the Staten Island Animal Shelter. The project has goals of making the typology more community focused and changing the program of a typical shelter so several dog and cat cafes were also researched.


4.1 SOUTH LOS ANGELES ANIMAL SERVICES CENTER 86

LOS ANGELES, CA; 2013 ARCHITECT: RA-DA The facility is spread across a 3 acre site. The main building that houses services, staff amenities, adoption facilitation, etc. is one story in height and 24,000 square feet. There is also a 43,000 square foot outdoor kennel area with 270 kennels.


FIGURE 4.1: South Los Angeles Animal Services Center. Photos by Ralf Strathmann. (ArchDaily, 2013).

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CASE STUDIES

The facility is located in an industrial zone surrounded by residential and close to major avenues. The building is situated so that it is easily visible and accessible. It encourages visitors that are walking from the bus stop and from the main avenue. The facade is clad in bright colors to make it more visible within a gray industrial zone. “Scaling” panels of precast concrete composites, supposed to be similar to that of reptile skin, clads the facade and wrap around the transparent “storefront” of pets. The building is laid out so there is a storefront that acts as a “gallery” of animals


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for adoption that pulls visitors through the building and towards the courtyard garden with dog kennels. The main adoption building and the community center act as gateway to the dog kennel gardens. Kennels are organized in a way so animals aren’t facing each other to mitigate noise. All kennels face green walls or landscaped mini parks. The facility achieved LEED Silver and has a strong emphasis on sustainability. Some sustainable measures in place are lighting regulation, temperature control, indoor air and environmental quality, recycled and regionally available materials, low-e glazing on windows; an energy star roof to reduce heat buildup, and solar panels. Some passive strategies are that the building is a compact design and the main and largest area (dog kennels) is exterior, which lowers the overall cost and needs of air conditioning needs. FIGURE 4.2: South Los Angeles Animal Services Center. Photos by Ralf Strathmann. (ArchDaily, 2013).

SITE PLAN


CASE STUDIES

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FLOOR PLAN

SOUTH ELEVATION

WEST ELEVATION


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DOG KENNELS GREEN SPACE CIRCULATION

Enlarged kennel plan showing the service corridor through the center of each kennel block, how kennels alternate direction so dogs don’t face each other and intermittent green spaces spread throughout.

RELEVANCE AND KEY TAKEAWAYS: This project is particularly relevant due it’s focus on sustainability. The kennel garden is also an interesting way of organizing circulation along with the use of wayfinding graphics. Kennels have retractable roofs, plant screens, radiant heating in raised concrete slabs with misters and shading devices.


INDUSTRIAL

RESIDENTIAL

CASE STUDIES

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DOG KENNELS

PUBLIC

DOG KENNELS

PUBLIC SPACE

MEDICAL

GREEN SPACE

CATS/SMALL/EXOTIC ANIMALS

STAFF

ANIMAL “STOREFRONT”

BACK OF HOUSE/STAFF/MEDICAL

CIRCULATION

CIRCULATION

The facility is located in an industrial site with residential surrounding it. The main building faces the industrial side while the dog kennels face the residential side.

Circulation path leads visitors through the “main boulevard” similar to a retail storefront of cats and other small animals and exotic pets and then opening up to a kennel garden.

FIGURE 4.3: Diagram Overlays South Los Angeles Animal Services Center. By author, 2020

There is a heavy focus on dog kennels with about 270 total kennels. They are raised up for better viewing experience throughout the garden and green spaces.


4.2 CHULA VISTA ANIMAL CARE FACILITY 92

CHULA VISTA, CA, 2002 ARCHITECT: DAVY ARCHITECTURE The main building is one story in height with an area of about 8,000 square feet. There is a outdoor kennel space of about 9,000 square feet with 112 kennels.


FIGURE 4.4: Chula Vista Animal Care Facility. Davy Architecture, 2002

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CASE STUDIES

The 112 dog kennels are completely outdoors and are oriented to face the prevailing winds so that there is always a breeze circulating around the dogs. The kennels are equipped with curvilinear roof forms, which catch the wind and contribute to the air flow. The outdoor kennel buildings are situated in a heavily landscaped park, which contains trellised walkways and an amphitheater for educational presentations. The buildings are also staggered and step back in


response to site conditions. The cats are housed inside a rotunda with large windows protected from the sun by overhangs. This tower is at the corner and is the dominant feature of the building that draws users to the site. It responds well to the curvature of the corner site conditions. Visitors walk on the outside of this structure and look through the windows at the cats on their way to viewing the dogs. Get acquainted rooms are strategically placed throughout the animal housing areas for people to visit with a potential adoptee. The comfortable, meandering outdoor setting has made this animal shelter a link with nature and a destination for the citizens of Chula Vista. The longer edge of the south facade faces a park that allows for views and natural daylight to enter the building. Along this edge are the main public spaces of retail and an educational room.

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FIGURE 4.5: Construction Drawings Chula Vista Animal Care Facility. Davy Architecture

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-

SITE PLAN

-

KENNEL ELEVATION -


CASE STUDIES

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FLOOR PLAN

WEST ELEVATION

SOUTH ELEVATION


-

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AVIARY

RABBITS MAIN BUILDING DOG KENNELS CATS CIRCULATION

Circulation was the key organizing component in this project. Users are intended to enter through the gift shop and circle through the cattery. The cattery is in the shape of a tower that allows for cats to move more vertically while the dogs respond to- more horizontal/lateral conditions. Once circled through the cattery, they walk outside through the kennels where they meander alongside 4 rows of 112 kennels.

RELEVANCE AND KEY TAKEAWAYS: This project is relevant, because it is about 20 minutes from the thesis project site so weather conditions and responses are the same. Outdoor kennels and system integration is an important aspect to this project. Circulation being the driving factor to key decisions is another noteworthy element.


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-

-

-

-

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PRIVATE

MAIN BUILDING

GREEN SPACE

PUBLIC

DOG KENNELS

CATS

ANIMALS

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-

The tower at the corner is the dominant feature to draw users to the site. It responds to the curvature of the intersection of the site conditions. The park to the south where the elongated south edge of the main building can capture the most natural daylight and have views of the park. The kennel buildings are stepped back and staggered in response to site conditions.

FIGURE 4.6: Diagram Overlays Chula Vista Animal Care Facility. By author, 2020.


4.3 PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL CARE FACILITY 98

PALM SPRINGS, CA, 2012 ARCHITECT: SWATT MIERS ARCHITECTS The facility sits on a three acre site while the main building is one story in height and is about 21,000 square feet. There are 56 outdoor dog kennels that surround a courtyard.


FIGURE 4.7: Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Swatt Miers Achitects. (ArchDaily, 2012).

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CASE STUDIES

The design reflects Palm Springs’ unique mid-century architectural heritage and responds to the San Jacinto Mountains that provide a backdrop for the buildings. Large overhangs of the building help to provide shade as well as frame views of the mountains. There is a special emphasis on water conservation as the project is in a desert climate and has significant needs for water, mainly to clean animal habitats. Water is recycled from the adjacent sewage treatment


100

plant and is used for cleaning all animal areas as well as landscape irrigation. Dog kennels surround an adoption courtyard garden with fabric shading and misters. There is also a community room for educational and evening uses. It is adjacent to a large park and a sewage treatment plant where is gets its recycled water from. The site is completely flat and has plans on expanding the dog kennel area as the project was done in phases due to budget restrictions. The project, although not pursuing LEED status, is the equivalent of LEED Silver in terms of sustainability measures.

SITE PLAN

FIGURE 4.8: Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Swatt Miers Architects


SECTION

NORTH ELEVATION

FLOOR PLAN

FIGURE 4.9: Palm Springs Animal Shelter. City of Palm Springs Planning Department, 2009

CASE STUDIES

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102

STAFF

DOG KENNELS

PUBLIC

CATS

MEDICAL/BACK OF HOUSE

-

CIRCULATION

-

RELEVANCE AND KEY TAKEAWAYS: Key takeaways include the project’s response to site in both design and system integration, especially using recycled water from the adjacent plant. The circulation around courtyard style kennels and sustainability strategies are other key elements of the project.


-

-

PRIVATE

AVIARY

DOG KENNELS

PUBLIC

RABBITS

GREEN SPACE

-

The plan layout was created to optimize a desired operational flow of people and animals into and out of the facility organized around a central Canine Adoption Garden. Dog kennels face an interior courtyard that is covered by fabric shade structures. The form of the building responds to The San Jacinto Mountains and the mid-century modern style of Palm Springs. Large overhangs protect from sun and hot, desert climate. FIGURE 4.10: Diagram Overlays Palm Springs Animal Shelter. By author, 2020.

MAIN BUILDING

-

CATS

The building responds to site in order for the main building, which encompasses the “cool cats� area, adoption lobby, reception, and more public programming to have views out to the San Jacinto Mountains and adjacent park.

CASE STUDIES

103


104

FIGURE 4.11: Palm Springs Animal Shelter. By author, 2020.

The Palm Springs Animal Shelter was visited through a guided tour and interview with an adoption counselor. Upon entry, the “Cool Cats” area has a playful series of windows that have spectacular views of the mountains without causing excessive heat gain. There is also an outdoor cat porch for older cats under a series of trees with fun interactive elements for the cats to jump, climb and play on. Aside from the sustainable features already mentioned, such as their recycled water coming from the nearby sewage treatment plant, the landscape around the building boasts an extensive sustainable garden all with drought tolerant plants in response to the desert’s hot climate. There are


CASE STUDIES

105

also shade structures that cover the large outdoor dog adoption courtyard. But perhaps the greatest thing about the Palm Springs Animal Shelter is their strict no-kill policy and the volunteers and staff that work there. One senior dog was brought in after his owner, a homeless man, had passed away and the staff members are fairly sure he will not get adopted due to his aggression to small dogs. The homeless man had trained the dog to kill mice on the street, and the dog ended up killing a small dog. However, the volunteers bring him homemade cookies and other treats daily and have done their best to make him a nice home at the shelter.


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SOUTH LOS ANGELES ANIMAL SERVICES CENTER

CHULA VISTA ANIMAL CARE FACILITY

PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL CARE FACILITY

FIGURE 4.11: Diagrams comparing the kennel layouts and circulation patterns from all three case studies. By author, 2020.

RELEVANCE AND KEY TAKEAWAYS: At South Los Angeles the kennels are laid out in a series of blocks with intermittent green spaces throughout. Chula Vista is arranged into rows and Palm Springs is organized around a central courtyard. Each is designed to provide optimal user experience through circulation and kennel organization.


4.3 OTHER FACILITIES

FIGURE 4.12: San Diego Humane Society. By author, 2020

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CASE STUDIES

The San Diego Humane Society, has several locations throughout San Diego, but the central campus is located in the Mission Valley area where there are several buildings including adoptions and admissions, the PAWS program, the Project Wildlife program, a kitten nursery and foster center, and a behavior center. In a guided tour and interview with a project manager, it was explained that the PAWS program provides essential pet services, such as spay/neutering, to low income families. Project Wildlife helps to rehabilitate injured, abandoned, and sick biologically diverse animals including owls, pigeons, opossums, coyotes, and more. Within the main adoption building, animal enclosures varied tremendously from 10’x15’ rooms with home like furnishings in the main building to average sized 4’x12’ kennel runs with a guillotine door for the behavior center.


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At the Staten Island Animal Care Center, animals are housed along the perimeter of the building while offices and service functions are placed on the interior, which aligns with the goal of providing animals with natural light in this project. The building has a strong emphasis on sustainability while also focusing on designing with a low budget. It is sheathed in an insulating, translucent polycarbonate envelope which maximizes natural light and allows for very light structure. A recessed clerestory allows light to enter the building and also provides natural cross ventilation. All materials are locally sources with high recyclable content. Materials were chosen to withstand abuse and minimize long term maintenance costs, further reinforcing the life cycle sustainability of the building. The facility achieved LEED silver and was the winner of the NYC Public Design Commission Award in 2011. FIGURE 4.13: Staten Island Animal Care Center. Garrison Architects. (ArchDaily, 2011)


FIGURE 4.14: The Dog Cafe LA. Photo by Tatiana Ernst, 2016

FIGURE 4.15: Boris and Horton

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CASE STUDIES

This project is looking to change the typology of animal shelters by incorporating different programmatic elements so several dog and cat cafes were researched. Cat cafes have been around for awhile now, due to cats calm demeanor and ability to almost always get along with one another. Recently, dog cafes are becoming popular as well. According to it’s website, The Dog Cafe LA is a reservation-based, fun and comfortable space where people can bring their own pets to play as well as interact with adoptable animals with no pressure of adoption. Boris and Horton is another dog cafe located in New York. According to TrendHunter, Boris and Horton serves as a neighborhood coffee shop that allows dogs and hosts adoption events for local rescue groups. In both dog cafes, the goal is get awareness out about adoptable dogs that a website just can’t provide through interaction and sociability.


chapter FIVE

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SITE ANALYSIS THE URBAN CONTEXT

5.2

SITE CHARACTERISTICS

5.3

ADAPTIVE REUSE

5.4

EDUCATION

111

S I T E A N A LY S I S

5.1


112

“

THE BETTER I GET TO KNOW MEN... ...THE MORE I FIND MYSELF LOVING DOGS.

CHARLES DE GAULLE


S I T E A N A LY S I S

113

Contemporary shelters are typically on the outskirts of towns and/or in rural neighborhoods making them only accessible by car, which can be discouraging for those who may already turned off by the sad factor of a typical shelter. Instead of opting for a remote site, the project will be an adaptive reuse of an old public library in the urban location of downtown San Diego. This strategy places the shelter near where people can access it easily by foot and encourage more adoptions, volunteer work and donations.


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5.1 THE URBAN CONTEXT

FIGURE 5.1: Downtown San Diego. By author, 2020

115

S I TE A N ALY S I S

Public work has become alluring for architects who want to create spaces that are about the user, and civic architecture is responsible for a lot of our environment (Murdock 2011). Instead of a remote site, the urban location of downtown San Diego places the animal shelter and community center near where people can access it easily. This strategy will encourage more visitors and foot traffic, which will in turn increase public awareness of the shelter, more adoptions, volunteer work and donations. This aligns heavily with several challenges discussed in Chapter 1. Contemporary shelters are typically on the outskirts of towns and/or in rural neighborhoods making them only accessible by car, which can be discouraging for those who may already turned off by the sad factor of a typical shelter. The main entrance is on E. Street, which currently gets a moderate amount of foot traffic already. A lively facade at the entrance will be populated with animals such as cats, exotics and reptiles, and small animals like guinea pigs and rabbits that will help to draw visitors into


TROLLEY

E. STREET

9TH AVE.

BROADWAY 8TH AVE.

116


N FIGURE 5.2: Land Use. By author, 2020

117

S I T E A N A LY S I S

the space. There is also a linear park planned along the North side of E. Street where the main entrance will be that will enhance the access into the facility. The East Village neighborhood is changing rapidly and this building can help to serve as an agent of change within the existing community to facilitate community building. The site is centrally located at a crossroads between residential and commercial sub-neighborhoods. It is also located a couple of blocks from several trolley stops. Downtown San Diego is currently lacking in community spaces and this building, along with being an active animal shelter will serve as a public urban space for the community. By incorporating mixed use components within the program, such as adoption events, “yappy” hours, dog and cat yoga, “paint your pooch” night, and many more, people can enjoy the space with their existing pet and/or be enticed to adopt an available animal.


5.2 SITE CHARACTERISTICS

118

NORTH

TOPOGRAPHY

VEGETATION

The topography of the site slopes significantly from the east to the west. There is also a slight slope from the north to the south (Figure 5.3).

The site currently has no vegetation. However, there is a future linear park planned for E. Street (Figure 5.1).

EAST SOUTH

WEST

FIGURE 5.3: Elevations. By author, 2020

FIGURE 5.4: Context. By author, 2020


CONTEXT: FUTURE NEIGHBORS

1. Parking 2. Salvation Army 3. Small Businesses 4. Women’s Center 5. Peachtree Inn 6. Post Office

More mixed use commercial and multiple family housing means higher density and more foot traffic to the site and more high rises to look down onto playful rooftop dog park. There is a proposal for a future linear park on E. Street that will increase curb appeal, foot traffic, and sustainability

7. 900 F Street Apts 8. Tajima Ramen 9. Library/Church Lofts 10. Celadon Apts 11. Hodad’s 12. Carnegie Apts

11 12

10

1

9 E. STREET LINEAR PARK

8 6

2

7

3

N

4

N

5

TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATIONS, UTILITIES

MIXED-USE

COMMERCIAL

TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATIONS, UTILITIES

MIXED-USE, SPECIFIC PLAN AREA

MULTIPLE FAMILY

INSTITUTIONS

EXISTING & FUTURE PARKS AND GREEN STREETS

MULTIPLE FAMILY

INSTITUTIONS

COMMERCIAL, OFFICE, MIXED-USE EXISTING & FUTURE PARKS GREEN STREETS

119

S I T E A N A LY S I S

CONTEXT: EXISTING NEIGHBORS


D

C 120

D

1

4

B

2

1

3

2 A

1


PEDESTRIAN & VEHICULAR ACCESS

1. Sun angles are significant to ensure animal enclosure spaces have access to natural daylight 2. Low-e glazing will be implemented on the south and west facades 3. Shading structures on rooftop will help to cool rooftop park 4. Atrium allows for daylight to enter the center of the space

A. The entrance on E. Street will gain the most foot traffic and remain the main access point B. The side entrance can be used for staff and volunteers with access from the parking C. Existing parking on NW corner serves as staff parking lot and animal intake D. For the public, there is street parking plus a parking garage to the west and a parking lot to the north

PRIVATE PARKING

PRIVATE ENTRANCE

PUBLIC PARKING

PUBLIC ENTRANCE

FIGURE 5.5: Site Plan. By author, 2020

121

S I T E A N A LY S I S

DAYLIGHTING


122


OPPORTUNITIES

• Views into the site from adjacent high rises onto green roof and dog play area • Rooftop and clerestory for cross ventilation and natural daylight • Strong daylight on three major sides • Use existing structure and grid to recycle materials and hit goals for net-zero

• Rooftop opportunities for outdoor space and dog play yard • Maintain interior quality of a library • New developments on adjacent sites to create foot traffic and density • Historic building has cultural significance • Centrally located between businesses and office buildings and residential and entertainment

WEAKNESSES

THREATS

• City owned property • Two basement levels aren’t usable spaces with low ceiling heights • Outdated design

• City will not make money off project • Hazardous materials will most likely be found in the building

FIGURE 5.6: Site Plan. By author, 2020

123

S I TE A N ALY S I S

STRENGTHS


5.3 ADAPTIVE REUSE HISTORIC STATUS

124

The building that the new shelter facility and community center will be housed in is the Old San Diego Public Library, which was abandoned in 2013 for the new public library just a few blocks away. The building was built in 1954 and is considered a San Diego Historic Landmark. The historic status particularly applies to the building exterior, the terrazzo sidewalk that contains the city seal and the state seal. Walking by this building today is pretty dismal. It usually functions as a homeless encampment at the entrance due to the large overhangs that provide shade during the warm San Diego days. This project will help to create a street scape for the block and will help program and maximize the future linear park on E. Street. Having a civic project like this can strengthen a community. Through architecture, social, environmental, and urban design challenges can be solved. James Polshek believes the civic architecture can enhance communities by encouraging socialization and recreation and restoring pride in a place. This building used to be the city’s public library, a symbol of the city, and now it stands as the city’s eyesore. With this project, a cultural identity can be reinforced as a place to bring your pets, adopt a new family member or even just gather and socialize. With construction costs being the highest they’ve ever been, adaptive reuse projects are more necessary than ever.


EXISTING STRUCTURE

FIGURE 5.7: Structural Diagram. By author, 2020

FIGURE 5.8: Atrium Diagram. By author, 2020

125

S I TE A N ALY S I S

In order to promote sustainability and conserve material resources, most of the existing building and it’s materials will remain. The structural grid of the building is a key component to how the kennels will be laid out between bays (Figure 5.7). The largest changes are the partial removal of the second floor and the roof above in order to create an atrium through the building (Figure 5.8). This will enhance verticality and transparency in the three story building and allow light to enter the ground floor and the center of the space as there are currently no windows along the North facade.


PREVIOUS PROPOSALS

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For the seven years that the building has sat vacant, many proposals have been circulated. The proposal that almost came to fruition was from the developer, Bosa. In 2014, Bosa proposed a development that consisted of a 42 story apartment building. The proposal fell through for several reasons, including the city being concerned that the cultural heritage of the building would be lost. Bosa eventually backed out, citing high construction costs. Another proposal from Lincoln Property Company was for 1,000 square feet of retail on the ground floor with the rest of the space consisting of 85,000 square feet of office space primarily for innovation and technology tenants. The vision was to have an entrepreneurial startup hub, equipped with a food truck style dining hall and an art gallery and exhibition space. There was another proposal for the building to become a homeless shelter, as the exterior would currently suggest. It was deemed too expensive to retrofit for human habitation (Molnar 2018). If an apartment high rise, a commercial office complex, and a homeless shelter all fell through, why not try a place for animals? According to historical architect, David Marshall, public use would be an “easier fit� for the building. He agreed that a residential building doesn’t fit in due to compliance issues and it would serve better for the neighborhood as a mixed use center for recreation and entertainment (Bowler 2015).


5.4 EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT

127

S I T E A N A LY S I S

The old library is culturally significant within the city. Because of it’s historic status, the city isn’t going to tear it down. It needs to be something - something that blends it’s historic roots with the future of the city. There is a strong opportunity to make a connection between the city’s past and it’s future. In addition to creating a place for animals, there should also be an educational component associated with the building so that the building doesn’t lose it’s cultural heritage as the city once thought it would if it were to become a residential high rise. An educational component will spread awareness of animal welfare in order to address many challenges associated with current shelters. Education is necessary when it comes to teaching the general public about humane practices, population concerns and spay/neuter programs, relinquishment, contemporary shelter life and pets in shelters. Other educational components can include dispelling myths about breed stereotypes, and teaching kids about bully for animals and people who might be different as mentioned in the case of Herman the pigeon and Lundy the Chihuahua. Lastly, when the human-animal bond was discussed, the science behind companion animals was staggering. Creating a program for children to read to animals could be another aspect that will draw users and facilitate a symbiotic relationship where children can practice how to read while animals get human interaction.


ch a p t e r s i x

128


DESIGN IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM

6.2

SYSTEMS & SUSTAINABILITY

6.3

DRAWINGS 129

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

6.1


130

“

THE GREATNESS OF A NATION AND ITS MORAL PROGRESS CAN BE JUDGED BY THE WAY ITS ANIMALS ARE TREATED.

MAHATMA GANDHI


ANIMALS

STAFF & VOLUNTEERS

FIGURE 6.1: Synergies. By author, 2020

VISITORS

The benefits of good shelter design can help the quality of life for the animals who live there and help them get adopted. Good design is also beneficial for the people who visit, volunteer, and work at the shelter. The facility should foster interactions between staff/volunteers and guests, interactions between staff/volunteers and animals, and interactions between guests and animals. The design goal is create an overall better shelter experience for volunteers and animals, provide a better work environment for staff, to integrate an educational program for the public and to seek synergies between humans and animals (Figure 6.1).

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

131


6.1 PROGRAM: ANIMALS

132


DOG KENNELS: General: Kennels should never be more than 80% full. Open units are essential for shelters to function effectively. Kennel layout and circulation are the root of the entire shelter layout to ensure every animal gets a chance to be seen by visitors.

Kennel size: The kennels are 7’x15’ (larger than the typical 4’x12’ kennel at most shelters) with two 11’x15’ kennels in each courtyard for bigger breeds, bonded pairs, and moms with litters. In the three case studies that were analyzed, dogs typically had about a 4’x12’ kennels with about 6’ of indoor space and 6’ of outdoor space. At the SD Humane Society, animals were housed indoors with no natural light, but a larger area of about 10’x15’ in rooms with homelike furnishings. The program for this project will be a blend of having larger kennel spaces with access to natural light. Stimulation: Create home like conditions to reduce stress and noise. Animals can experience negative emotions, mentioned in previous chapters, which can stem from monotonous living quarters and no social interaction. Kennels will have home furnishings with a variety of spaces. FIGURE 6.2: First Floor Plan. By author, 2020

133

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

Adjacencies: Key adjacencies will be next to exercise and play spaces, get acquainted areas for potential adopters as well as key circulation points.


134


DOG KENNELS: Daylighting: Kennel areas with plenty of windows that bring in as much natural air and light as possible. Being by natural light gives dogs a sense of circadian rhythm and provides better viewing to any exterior events that provide mental stimulation.

Guillotine Door: Animals will have access to double compartments with animal/ visitor interaction (public) at the front of the housing unit and animal/staff interaction (private) at the back of the unit. Guillotine provide lots of flexibility within the unit. Dogs can be grouped in compatible pairs in the runs, with the doors left open to allow for more space to run around. The door can be lowered to facilitate quick cleaning procedures and used to promote good bathroom habits by separating between eating and sleeping are and waste elimination area. Materials: Surfaces, such as sealed concrete flooring, are easy to clean and disinfect in order to manage odors and helps disease control. This type of flooring also saves significant amounts on heating and cooling bills. High-density coatings for interior walls and floors will be used to withstand hoses and cleaning materials. FIGURE 6.3: Dog Enclosures. By author, 2020

135

D E S I G N I M P LE M E N TAT I O N

Ventilation: Adequate ventilation helps reduce odors and creates a healthier experience for both the animals and their visitors.


136


CAT ENCLOSURES:

Individual Cat Suites: Individual cat rooms are 4’x6’ and 6’x6’ at 10’ feet in height (the recommended minimum is 18 square feet per cat with no vertical minimum). Cats who aren’t socialized will have their individual kennels that can be expanded and flexible in order to accommodate more room (Figure 6.4). The 4’x6’ suites have a divider with holes, similar to the guillotine door, that allows for flexibility and the ability to house more cats. Environment plays a huge role in a cat’s physical, behavioral and mental health. In one shelter, cutting down the number of cat cages boosted adoption due to cats being in great health and having room to play (Hettinger, n.d.)

FIGURE 6.2: First Floor Plan. By author, 2020

137

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

Community Rooms: It is common for cats to be housed together and will be at the entry of the building. Most people go to the shelter to adopt a dog, but having cats and other animals at the entry might help change people’s minds to promote higher adoption rates of these animals, similar to a retail shopping experience. Cats are housed along the South facade, because they like to sunbathe near windows. A similar strategy was seen in the case study examples. Circulation and play for cats occurs on less square footage with more verticality.


138

FIGURE 6.4: Cats. By author, 2020


D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

139

FIGURE 6.5: Play and Exercise Yard. By author, 2020


140


GET ACQUAINTED AND VIEWING SPACES:

Interior Courtyards/Play & Exercise Yards: Areas for play and exercise can vary from larger spaces of 3,000 SF to smaller ones of 500 SF depending on sizes of dogs (Figure 6.5). The roof will be the main play area, which is about 20,000 square feet. Viewing Spaces: Watching how dogs behave outside their kennels gives potential adopters insights into their personalities and helps them look beyond breed stereotypes, resulting in increased adoptions and better matches.

FIGURE 6.2: First Floor Plan. By author, 2020

141

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

Get Acquainted: This is where potential adopters will get one on one time with a dog or animal of their choosing. The rooms should be filled with natural light and promote a positive, healthy and happy environment. Rooms should be set up with amenities to create home like scenarios that can help acclimate animals to their new homes when are thy are adopted. These spaces are flexible and can also be used to house compatible dogs together or for staff and volunteers to help socialize dogs in smaller groups aside from the larger play yards. The rooms will have extra insulation and zoned for HVAC appropriately to mitigate noise and odors so that visitors and dogs are not distracted by exterior noises and smells. Cat Get Acquainted Rooms are the same concept, but smaller in square footage.


142


ANIMAL AMENITY SPACES: Behavioral Testing Areas Dogs & Cats: Aside from their kennels and play/ exercise areas, dogs and cats will need to be assessed for their behavior; i.e. do they mind if you are near them while they are eating. This function will simulate a home-like atmosphere.

Grooming: Grooming services will be necessary so animals look their best for potential adopters. This space doesn’t need natural daylight, and could be located near restrooms to shorten water pipes. Daycare & Boarding: The facility is also equipped with 28 overnight boarding kennels and 3,000 square feet of doggy day care.

FIGURE 6.6: Second Floor Plan. By author, 2020

143

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

Dog Training Areas: Training areas will be in the play and exercise yards as well as a designated 3,000 square foot indoor training yard on the second floor. Basic training socialization will be provided for animals prior to being adopted.


144


VET SPACES: VET SERVICES AND OFFICES: Medical clinic will include space for procedures, a waiting room, prep room, recovery room. Just as in any hospital animals need to wait, be prepped, have surgical treatment, and recover. There will also be smaller private rooms for simpler things such as routine check ups, blood work, etc.

PUBLIC INTAKE: This is where people can come in at any point day or night to drop off an animal. This will not be near any major circulation or adoption points. Animals are held here to be evaluated before being placed in a kennel. DOG & CAT ISOLATION: These kennels are for dogs and cats with medical issues that are not allowed to be exposed to other animals as to spread disease. A selfcontained ventilation system will allow ill dogs to be treated without jeopardizing other members of the population.

FIGURE 6.6: Second Floor Plan. By author, 2020

145

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

SPAY, NEUTER AND MICROCHIPPING CLINIC: A separate clinic specifically for spay and neutering service as well as a place for animals to be microchipped. Basic vet and veterinary technicians training can take place here.


6.1 PROGRAM: PUBLIC

146

4

3

2

1


COMMUNITY CENTER:

Cat Cafe: A cat cafe is at the ground level with street front access. The front half is a cafe and the back half is where visitors can interact with adoptable cats. Retail: Adopters will need first time pet parent basics that they might not be prepared with. This feature will have access to E. Street as well as within the facility. Aviary and Reading Area: within the atrium space (Figure 6.8)

FIGURE 6.2: First Floor Plan. By author, 2020

147

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

Entry & Lobby/Reception: Users will enter through the current main entrance off E. Street and enter into a bright and fun atmosphere. A large lobby will feature small animals (guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, etc.), exotics and reptiles, and cats at storefront entry. The lobby is equipped with comfortable waiting spaces and touchscreens along the circulation path that feature adoptable pets, adoption success stories and events at the facility (Figure 6.7).


148

FIGURE 6.7: Entrance and Lobby. By author, 2020


D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

149


150

FIGURE 6.8: Atrium. By author, 2020


D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

151

FIGURE 6.9: Photo by Tim Hawk/NJ Advance Media (Babcock, 2019).


152 FIGURE 6.10: Third Floor Plan. By author, 2020

FIGURE 6.11: Roof Plan. By author, 2020


Rooftop Dog Park: for play and socialization for dogs and also has a patio bar for humans to enjoy (Figure 6.9). Event Space Program Considerations: Adoption events, Happy (Yappy) Hours, movie nights, birthdays, yoga, Shelter Buddies program where children come read to dogs, Love on a Lease where people come and walk dogs without the commitment of adoption. Education: An area to educate on training tips, behavior, breeds, will be in classrooms and lecture rooms as well as on touch screens in the lobby for users to engage with. The educational aspect can be used to include evening use/multipurpose when the rest of the facility would need to be secure. This component will play nicely into the old library as both cultural and historical aspect. After hours, this space can serve as a classroom for a variety of functions.

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

153


6.1 PROGRAM: PRIVATE

154


Volunteer: Several offices will be dedicated for volunteer use as they are an integral part to the shelter environment. A dedicated volunteer room with lockers for personal items and a place to sit down, socialize, and relax supports morale and makes the shelter a fulfilling and comfortable place to spend time.

Other Considerations: Small sink areas throughout the space, janitor supplies and wide hallways for animal transfer and cleaning carts as well as easy access workstations, lockers, break rooms, and areas to discuss adoption with future adopters.

FIGURE 6.10: Third Floor Plan. By author, 2020

155

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

Administration Offices: These offices support all other staff who don’t facilitate in the adoption process as well as support spaces for everyone including volunteers


156

PRIVATE

PUBLIC

ANIMAL

POINTS OF INTEREST: break room, match-making, humananimal interaction

POINTS OF INTEREST: lobby, retail, cat cafe, reptiles, small animals, viewing spaces, aviary, reading area

POINTS OF INTEREST: play & exercise yard and get acquainted spaces


CIRCULATION:

157

D E S I G N I M P L E M E N TAT I O N

Circulation is key in ensuring users see every potential adoptable animal and for people to know they can come here to find lost pets. The existing building is a rectilinear form, but the way users move through the space makes the facility a more dynamic experience. Circulation needs to be clear and will include wayfinding graphics. Plant screens and digital screens will align circulation and allow all dogs to face something green instead of other dogs, which helps to mitigate noise and provide visual stimulation for visitors and animals.

FIGURE 6.12: Circulation. By author, 2020


1 9 8

6 10

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7

11

7

9

5

2

12 3

1:12 SLOPE

13

1:12 SLOPE

4

FIGURE 6.12: Circulation. By author, 2020

1. Wall Type A: Precast concrete with exterior stucco finish 2. Wall Type B: Precast concrete with stone finish 3. Floor Type A: Cast in place floor slab 4. Floor Type B: Cast in place floor slab with wood veneer 5. Uplighting on kennel wall to be reflected back to animal 6. Supply register to be at public side 7. Ambient kennel lighting within drop acoustical ceiling 8. Return register on bathroom (private) side of kennel

9. Gable “roof” over kennels assembled to wall enclosing kennel modules 10. Acoustic baffles for extra noise mitigation 11. Precast concrete 18”x18” square structural columns 12. Raised concrete slab kennel flooring with radiant heating, rubber finish 13. Trapless floor drains and piping within slab to ensure no standing water or odor


6.2 SYSTEMS AND SUSTAINABILITY Sustainability and efficiency are primary design drivers while incorporating functional and safety requirements for an animal care facility. While implementing certain elements and systems might cost more up front, the benefits of the building’s life cycle cost will be tremendous through energy savings and maintenance. Some passive strategies are already apparent in the building, such as it’s fairly compact design. All the program is in one building rather than spread out on site as was seen in most case studies, which means all systems are centrally located. The building gets sufficient light and cross ventilation through the space, especially with the addition of the atrium. HVAC: Controlled air-conditioning system that can shut off based on temperature control with different zones. Different zones will minimize odor and disease transfer, and constant fresh air should be exchanged in the system with 12-15 air changes per hour. Air circulated to animal spaces should be 100% fresh outside air to minimize air borne contagion from spreading. Roof: Green roof with high-performance insulation and 140 kw PV system that will act as shade structure and should provide enough energy for ~40% of building. Other Considerations: • Landscape: Use exclusively native trees and grasses that are drought tolerant. • Efficient light, flush, and flow fixtures reduce water use and electricity indoors. • All paints and finishes used in the project contain low or no emissions of VOCs, • Efficient kennel cleansing system to reduce water use

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PROGRAM: ANIMALS ALONG THE PERIMETER •

House animals along the perimeter of the building as much as possible to promote a lively facade and for animals to gain access to natural light and ventilation, which enhances circadian rhythm. This strategy will increase foot traffic, visitors, and adoption.

FORM: INCREASE TRANSPARENCY •

FIGURE 6.13: Parti. By author, 2020

An atrium with clerestory windows in the center of the building will allow for daylight to get into the center of the space. This strategy creates more transparency and centrality in the public spaces of the building, while the perimeter is designated for more private animal adoption courtyards and services. The atrium presents more verticality within the 3 story building.

GREEN SPACE: THE URBAN CONTEXT • •

A green roof will serve as a community dog park Residents in surrounding high rises will have ample views onto the playful roofscape. A linear park is planned for E. Street, which will be an enhancement to draw users into the space. Increased landscaping along the building perimeter.


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1. Entrance and Reception/Check-in 2. Waiting Area with semi-private cubes built in for counseling, matchmaking, and adoption facilitation 3. Lobby with digital touch screens to feature adoptable pets, adoption success stories, event schedule, education, and more. 4. Raised viewing area of adoption courtyard and play/exercise yard 5. Human size scratch post in waiting area 6. Kitten porch at entrance to facilitate more cat and kitten adoptions 7. Exotic animals and reptile area near entrance to populate facade and enhance adoptions 8. Small animal room including rabbits, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, etc.

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9. Retail store to have entrance within facility and an entrance for visitors coming in off E. Street. 10. The Cat Cafe at the corner of the facility with the front half cafe and the back half for visitors to interact with cats for potential adoption 11. The community room is a flexible space used for large groups (such as a school trip) to gather upon entry, after hours education, and more. 12. Aviary in the atrium will house birds, butterflies, insects, and more. 13. Surrounding the aviary within the atrium is a community space that will house books, magazines, and other literature focused for children to gather, read, play, and learn. 14. Large dog play and exercise yard

FIGURE 6.14: Dynamic First Floor Plan . By author, 2020

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15. Large dog raised kennels with guillotine door for separated eating/sleeping and bathroom areas and integrated systems 16. Larger kennels for other animals that could include pigs 17. Rooms flanking the adoption courtyard are flexible spaces that can be used as staff training areas, get acquainted spaces, and for back of house 18. Small dog raised kennels 19. Small dog exercise and play yard 20. Cat kennels flexible to house a varying number of cats 21. Cat get acquainted spaces 22. Sallyport 23. Staff lounge and storage space

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1. Grooming with self wash rooms 2. Educational and training yard 3. Offices and Behavior Testing 4. Daycare reception 5. Daycare play yard (old children’s library) 6. Overnight boarding 7. Vet Reception 8. Exam Rooms 9. Xray, laundry, food prep and lab spaces 10. Isolation/quarantine FIGURE 6.15: Dynamic Second Floor Plan. By author, 2020

11. Rehabilitation pool 12. Walking yard 13. Staff break room and offices 14. Vet offices 15. Vet education and training 16. Clinic for surgery, microchipping, spay/neutering, and storage for these procedures 17. Public intake and animal control to have direct access to sallyport below and have varying size kennels for different animals


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1. Small dog raised kennels with guillotine door for separated eating/sleeping and bathroom areas and integrated systems 2. Play and exercise yard 3. Offices and staff break room 4. Rooms flanking the adoption courtyard are flexible spaces that can be used as staff training areas, get acquainted spaces, and for back of house storage and food preparation 5. Classrooms 6. Conference room FIGURE 6.16: Dynamic Second Floor Plan. By author, 2020

7. Event and community space with cafe for adoption events, happy hours and more 8. Outdoor patio (old librarian offices) 9. Play and exercise yard 10. Large dog raised kennels 11. Kitchen 12. Staff break room and offices 13. Main back of house area 14. Aviary and atrium extend beyond rooftop


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• • • • •

Rooftop opportunities for outdoor space and dog play yard Views into the site from adjacent high rises onto green roof and dog play area Atrium for cross ventilation and natural daylight Strong daylight on three major sides New developments planned on adjacent sites to

• • •

create foot traffic and density Historic building has cultural significance Centrally located between businesses and office buildings and residential and entertainment Great opportunity to provide something meaningful for the community and activating the neighborhood


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1. Entrance to rooftop 2. Rooftop dog park for public use 3. Raised mound for dog run and enrichment 4. Outdoor seating 5. Patio bar

6. Dog park will feature colorful shade structures, trees, planters, and seating 7. HVAC equipment and potential water recycling 8. Dog park for private use for in house dogs and training purposes


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FIGURE 6.17: Dynamic Sections. By author, 2020


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OPPOSITE PAGE: FIGURE 6.17: Dynamic Sections. By author, 2020


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NewSchool of Architecture & Design

San Diego, CA 2020


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Cover Figure: Pro Pet Supplies

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