Pet owners make up a large share of renters and buyers, and they look for buildings that make life with a dog easier. A self-serve dog wash station, often called a pet spa, has become one of the most requested amenities in apartments, condos and HOA communities. It keeps muddy paws out of hallways and units, and it gives residents a reason to stay.
Pick the right location
The best pet spas sit close to where dogs come and go: near a side entrance, the dog run or the parking garage. A ground-floor room with an existing floor drain and nearby plumbing will keep installation costs down. Avoid placing the station next to quiet spaces like a fitness studio or leasing office, since barking travels.
Choose a tub that handles heavy use
A shared tub will see dogs of every size, every day, used by people who are not professional groomers. That calls for equipment that is durable and simple:
- Stainless steel construction. Our Standard Series wash stations use 16 gauge, 304 grade stainless steel, fully welded, with a 10 year limited warranty.
- Walk-in access. A slide-away door lets large dogs step in, so residents never have to lift them.
- A hair catching system. Keeps hair out of the building’s drain lines, which your maintenance team will appreciate.
- Two sizes. The 48″ and 60″ wash stations fit different rooms and dog sizes.
Round out the room
Add a wall-mounted dryer, safety steps for small dogs, a grooming table if space allows, hooks for leashes, a towel shelf and a dispenser for shampoo. Washable walls, slip-resistant flooring and good ventilation make the room easier to maintain.
Set simple house rules
Post clear rules by the door: reservation times or time limits, rinse the tub after use, clear the hair catcher, no dogs left unattended, and who to contact if something breaks. A short sign with these steps keeps the space clean between maintenance visits.
Plan for maintenance
Add the pet spa to your daily cleaning rounds and check drains and fixtures weekly. Our guide to keeping a wash station clean has a simple routine your staff can follow.
Make the most of the amenity
Feature the pet spa in listings and tours, and host a “spa day” event when it opens. It is a small investment that helps your community stand out to pet owners.
Planning a pet spa for a new build or renovation? Request a quote and our team can help with sizing, plumbing side and volume pricing.