In New York City, we know all too well how much people adore their animal companions. In fact, one could say you are not a true New Yorker unless you have seen someone pushing their poodles in a baby carriage, or strutting down Broadway with a Great Dane at their hip. As we transition into the chilly winter season, keeping one’s beloved pooch safe and warm becomes increasingly important. Dog Parker wants to ensure your pup’s protection on even the coldest winter day.
In 2016, Dog Parker launched their line of temperature-controlled dog houses in Brooklyn. These snug abodes allow pet owners to pay per minute for peace of mind when they head into grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops and more. Rather than leaving their dog’s leash tied to a street sign or bench, owners can rest easy knowing their dog is secure.
Chelsea Brownridge, Dog Parker’s co-founder and CEO, told Built In NYC that Dog Parker was born out of genuine love for her own dog, a rescue terrier-mix named Winston.
“Winston is extremely high-energy and suffers from FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). For a long time, it was difficult taking Winston around the city because so many places don't allow dogs inside. I wouldn't tie him up because, like many, I worried he'd get loose, scared or stolen. Sometimes, Winston needed to stay home more often than either of us wanted just because I'd go into a store for a few minutes where he wasn't allowed.”
“As a solution,” Brownridge continued, “I created the Dog Parker — a shareable dog house — so that the Winstons of the world can enjoy exploring the city life more with their owners.”
Additional features of Dog Parker include an in-house camera that connects to the dog owner’s phone, automatic UV sanitation in-between uses, and routine thorough cleanings. “The Dog Parker combines dog-first design with technology to create a safe and comfortable house for dogs,” Brownridge said. “It is important to me to make Dog Parkers accessible for all dog owners and to better enable dog-friendlier communities with the help of local businesses.”
Though Dog Parker is seen as a welcome gift to many pet parents, others remain hesitant, citing concerns that their pet might feel uncomfortable in the small space, or that a power outage might leave their dog stuck inside one of the units. Brownridge explained how each Dog Parker unit has numerous safety features, and was designed with dog psychology in mind:
“There is heating and cooling for year-round safety and comfort. If temperatures go outside the safe range [of] 32 to 80 degrees, the house makes itself unavailable for use. There's battery backup in case of a power outage, and a physical key located in a lockbox on the house [accessible by Dog Parker’s team] in case you lose your member card or your phone loses battery.”
It's amazing to watch the dogs step right in with confidence and comfort."
Brownridge continued, “Dogs are den animals and feel safer in den-like environments, such as a dog house! This is why when they hear thunder, you may see your dog hide under the couch or bed. We host events at dog parks and welcome people to our offices to try [Dog Parker] out, and it's amazing to watch the dogs step right in with confidence and comfort — it's been designed for them with attention to details, including choosing the size, materials and features.”
For those who remain uncertain, Brownridge encourages pet owners to simply give it a try. The first week of Dog Parker is free, followed by a rate of just $0.20 per minute.
Regardless, Dog Parker is leaving its detractors in 2017, and heading into 2018 with exciting plans for expansion. Brownridge told Built In NYC the company has lined up 20 cities eager to use Dog Parker to make their neighborhoods more dog-friendly.
“My vision for the world is a place where every dog owner has an option to have their dog join them for a walk, anytime and anywhere,” Brownridge said. “I'm committed to giving dogs a safe home away from home — one Dog Parker at a time.”
