FUR YOU

The very best accessories, toys , and home improvements for your beloved animal companions

- Miriam Methuen-Jones

This time last year, the BBC was reporting that more than three million UK households had acquired a pet since the start of the pandemic, joining the 14 million already with a furry (or feathered or scaly) friend. The desire for companionship and distraction, more time spent out in the fresh air, the switch to home-working... whatever the reason for taking that first step, there's no denying we're a nation of pet-lovers – and our homes should reflect that.

One of the downsides of owning a puppy is, undoubtedly, the pong. Dogs seem unrivalled in their desire to seek out filth, and often a shower under the garden hose just won't cut it. Don't stop Fido and co from having their fun; instead, build a small washing area into your utility room to make things easier. It's a game-changer. Cover the area with durable, scratch-resistant tiles, and include a specialised showerhead - some attach to your palm for a stress-free clean, some are long and wand-shaped to reach the grubbiest bits. Reinforced glass doors, demonstrated by Martin Moore (above, right), look sleek and are ideal for hounds that can't be trusted to sit still. An elevated walled bath area means no back pain for you as you scrub them clean.

And it's not just the pooch who'll benefit from a smart set-up like this. You won't need to share your bath with hundreds of hairs, and it's a convenient spot to give your houseplants a thorough soak too.