.jpg)
As part of my final project, I decided to focus on the need for pet safety in emergency relief scenarios. I noticed that pets are often overlooked or inadequately accommodated during crises.
Custos aims to address this by creating an expandable and versatile pet carrier equipped with essential supplies, designed specifically for emergency responders to safely rescue and care for pets in need.
Context
Class - Unfolding Nature and Form
September - December 2023
6 Weeks
.png)
Skills
User Research, Product Fabrication, Pattern Creation, Sewing and Construction
In the face of increasing disasters caused by climate change, there is a growing need for specialized pet emergency products that can help first responders in rescuing, evacuating, and caring for pets in emergency situations.
Many existing pet carriers lack the necessary features to facilitate swift rescue and transport, often leading to delays in response times and increased stress for animals.
To better understand the needs of both pet owners, I conducted user surveys involving 17 pet owners. The survey results provided valuable insights into the pain points and key features necessary for a pet emergency carrier kit:
17 Pet Owners
- 9 College Students
- 7 Others
How?
For this project, the user surveys were conducted using a combination of online questionnaires and in-person interviews to gather detailed, actionable insights.
Key Insights
- 92% of pet owners expressed that they felt unprepared to evacuate their pets quickly during emergencies, indicating a need for efficient solutions.
- Owners of different-sized pets indicated that a one-size-fits-all approach would not work, so I looked to expandable designs.
- Pet owners favored a carrier that combines both transport and essential supplies.
.png)
Based on the insights gathered from the user research, several design opportunities emerged that could significantly enhance the effectiveness of this project.
Expandable Design
A carrier that can expand or contract can ensure flexibility for different sized pets.
Ease of Access
By focusing on one-handed operation mechanisms, such as quick-release clasps or zippers, it make it easier for owners to access necessary supplies.
Community Engagement
Rather than individual use, engaging with local emergency services and rescue organizations will foster a collaborative approach to pet safety.
My design process began with a thorough ideation phase. I started by creating a moodboard filled with inspiration drawn from nature, innovative product designs, and emergency equipment in existence.
Taking inspiration from nature, I studied various natural forms to influence my design because nature offers elegant and efficient solutions to complex problems. The organic forms, adaptability, and resilience found in natural structures served as a guiding principle in my design process.
Taking a short trip to our local fabric store, I gathered all the fabrics and hardware needed for this design project.
I explored new materials during the process, incorporating ones I hadn't worked with before, such as:
- Grommets
- Zippers
- Buckles/Clasps
- Drawstrings
.png)
Unfortunately, some needles had broken along the way...
The emergency carrier is designed to serve as a reliable and adaptable solution for evacuation situations in time of emergency.
First Aid Materials provided in each carrier for pets in place for injuries and emergencies. The compact kit includes essential supplies such as bandages, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, and other medical necessities tailored for pets.
.jpg)
The expandable fabric of the carrier is essential for accommodating pets of different sizes during emergency situations. The adaptable design ensures comfort and security for small and large pets promoting versatility in rescue operations.
.jpg)
As part of my research, I observed people walking their pets in urban settings and asked to test the carrier with different pets. I focused on varying sizes, breeds, and behaviors, while noting challenges like busy streets and sudden pet movements.
These real-world tests gave me valuable insights into how adaptable the carrier needed to be.
Adaptability is Crucial
Designing a versatile carrier that can accommodate various pet sizes and behaviors is essential for effective use in emergency situations.
User-Centered Design
Direct feedback from pet owners was invaluable in shaping the functionality, ensuring the carrier meets real-world needs.
Material Selection Matters
Selecting lightweight, durable, and waterproof materials was crucial for ensuring adaptability in various disaster relief scenarios.
