Dogs won’t be ruffin’ it in these luxurious digs
Over the next few weeks, travelers passing through Denver International Airport might instead find themselves at the doghouse.
Sixteen deluxe doghouses — complete with solar panels, heated floors, filtered-water systems and other amenities for pampered pooches — are on display through Oct. 9 as part of the Sustainable BARKitecture Doghouse Competition.
Fifteen of the structures were designed and built by local firms and are on display on the plaza between the Westin hotel and Jeppesen Terminal, just steps away from the commuter rail station. The other house, designed by DIA staff, sits inside the Great Hall of Jeppesen Terminal.
Panasonic donated the solar panels for the competition, and the firms donated their time and materials. These top-of-the-line doghouses, each of which carries a $5,000 price tag, integrate sustainable features such as rainwater collection, solar-powered lights and fans, and reclaimed materials. Some also feature treat dispensers for the dogs alongside charging stations and beer coolers for their owners.
Each house was designed with a special dog in mind. The Canine Airport Therapy Squad is a volunteer program that consists of 90 privately owned therapy dogs, who with their owners walk the airport and interact with travelers as a way to help relieve stress and anxiety. Sixteen of those dogs inspired the designs, which included consideration of their personalities and preferences. Some houses feature walls made completely of bright-green tennis balls, and others have ramps or space for digging.
Voting in the doghouse competition will continue online through Oct. 5, and an awards ceremony will be held at the airport plaza from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 9. Dog lovers can also take home the fancy doggie digs through an online auction. All proceeds will support the Dumb Friends League.