Each year, millions of companion animals – including cats, dogs, and other small animals – end up on the streets or within shelter environments. This puts strain on these shelters, creating environments that are stressful, overwhelming, dysfunctional and deterring for everyone, including the animals who often react negatively in response, reducing the likelihood of animals getting adopted. The stress on animal shelters needs to be alleviated through design that works to attract the public, create opportunities for people to connect with animals and prioritize animal education.

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Pawsitive Connections is an animal centre that aims to connect the local community with animal shelter environments as a way to encourage adoption and animal education. The design of the space creates smooth and encouraging journeys for all, by considering animal behaviour patterns and environmental stressors to ensure everyone feels comfortable within the centre. With communal spaces to inspire conversation and various formal and informal educational opportunities, Pawsitive Connections brings people together and allows them to learn
to become better pet owners as a way to reduce animal surrenders. Independent spaces for animal bonding and care encourage people to truly connect with animals and ensure they are making informed decisions, inspiring a sense of confidence in all pet owners and getting animals into the best homes possible.