Exploring the Built Environment and Pet Ownership in Urban Apartments: A Preliminary Analysis

Abstract

The built environment is part of the physical environment, encompassing structures built for human activity. These elements include buildings, transportation lines, parks and more, which both impact humans and animals. Although a lot of research has been conducted on the effects of the built environment on human well-being, less research has been done on how it affects pets, especially in apartment settings, where certain shared areas and design elements can have a big impact on pet ownership experiences. The study’s purpose was to understand the relationship between pets and pet owners and their residential built environment. A 21-item online survey, administered via Google Forms, was distributed through social media platforms. The study employed a qualitative approach, drawing on the responses collected from 55 respondents, who were apartment residents aged 10 years and above, who currently or previously owned pets. Thematic analysis of the survey data revealed three key themes, demonstrating the relationship between pets and their built environment within urban apartment settings. These findings emphasize the importance of urban planning and its role in shaping pet ownership experiences, which highlights the necessity to consider the needs of pets and pet owners in urban settings.