XV. Accommodation for Family Pets

I am not aware that any special modifications of plan have yet been made to meet the demands of the family pets. I do not suggest that the fitting of the ingle should include a special niche for a dog or cat, for such is the contrary nature of these animals that it is doubtful whether such accommodation would be appreciated or used. It is the same spirit which makes them whine or scratch at a closed door which has been open five minutes before and which must often be opened again in deference to a change of plan in the movement of the cat or dog. In view of this erratic dis-

Wall position in these animals it might be reasonably suggested that a little passage made in the thickness of a wall or chimney breast might be introduced, provided with self-closing valves or doors hung from the upper edge.

This would allow free ingress and egress without draughts, and the animals would soon learn how to push open these little doors. Such an arrangement in connection with a chimney stack might even be made large enough to afford a sleeping place for a cat or dog, and its position near the fire would make it warm and dry.

Such arrangements would probably appeal only to lovers of animals, but I feel sure would be appreciated by those who are in the habit of keeping family pets.