The Coronavirus pandemic affected everyone. Many felt disconnected + isolated from others, as the entire nation was encouraged to quarantine to help stop the spread. During this unprecedented time, people began seeking ways to combat loneliness. It became popular to adopt and foster shelter dogs, in an effort to fulfill a companionship void.
The heavy traffic to animal shelters resulted in record breaking adoption numbers, as shelters were emptied nationwide. Adopting or fostering a dog often allows for rewarding and overwhelmingly positive results, yet why does the overall experience of visiting a dog shelter feel depressing + negative?
How can design professionals modernize animal shelters so that visiting becomes enjoyable for multiple reasons, not just the traditional “in and out” visit to select a pet?
