Luigi Ippoliti and Rosita di Mizio
Shake Off is a dog washing station designed with a zoo anthropological approach, based on a deep understanding of the human-animal bond and its influence on product design. It integrates solutions that promote the psychological, emotional, and physical well-being of dogs. Made from r-PETG, a recycled polyester reinforced with 30% fiberglass, it offers strength, sustainability, and high durability thanks to its UV resistance. The manufacturing process utilizes LFAM 3D printing technology.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Shake Off is made using a zoo anthropological approach that focuses on a deep understanding of the human-animal bond and how this influences product design by studying practices that promote the psychological, emotional and physical well-being of the dog. Shake Off is made of r-PETG, or recycled material; given its size and the material from which it is made, it is easily transportable.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Shake Off is designed for small/medium sized dogs. Dimensions: Length: 120 cm. Width: 100 cm. Total height: 125 cm. Washing surface height: 45 cm. Fixed glass height: 50 cm. Movable glass height: 20 cm. Washing compartment height (side walls): 80 cm. Access step height: 15 cm. Width of access step: 30 cm. Access step depth: 80 cm.
- Tags
- dog washing station, animal care, dog shower, zoo anthropological, shake off
- Production Technology
- Shake Off is designed for ease of use, made of r-PETG, a material that offers significant advantages in terms of strength and sustainability: a recycled polyester loaded with 30 percent fiberglass. Shake Off is also highly UV-resistant, ensuring durability despite possible exposure to weathering. The technology chosen for creation is LFAM 3D printing, which, thanks to a robotic arm, allows the creation of the wash station layer by layer, a choice that is not only environmentally friendly but also economical in terms of space and travel. In fact, additive manufacturing is a technology that allows the creation of the object on site, eliminating the need for complex transportation and assembly.
- Design Challenge
- Translation of the needs for active and positive interaction between operator and animal into design.
- Project Duration
- The project started in September 2024 and ended in February 2025.
- Operation Flow
- Shake Off was created to create a positive interaction between man and animal at a time of stress represented by washing. The choice was made to allow the dog to access the washing area independently, and accessible via steps: the animal's active behavior reduces stress; the presence of a fully glass and adjustable sidewall allows the dog to see and visually interact with the operator. This stimulates curiosity and social interaction, fosters a bond of trust, and makes the experience more engaging. The operator washes the animal, adjusts the temperature via a thermostatic mixer that ensures the animal's comfort. In addition, the dog can activate jets of water by pressing them with its paws; this results in positive interaction and a playful, dynamic experience that turns washing into a time of play. Incoming water is connected to external supply systems and outgoing water is removed through connection to drains equipped with filters to prevent the accumulation of hair, thus facilitating maintenance. A drying system is provided that is located inside the washing station. In addition, Shake Off is equipped with a front drawer, where towels can be stored to manually dry the animal.
- Research
- The research took place in the field, collecting primary data through surveys, observations of interviews with veterinary behaviorists, dog trainers and handlers.
The goal of the research is the development of an ergonomic and functional dog washing station. The research led to the definition of a product that combines functionality with aesthetics. - Inspiration
- Dog washing stations currently on the market do not adequately take into account the needs of the animal, who often experiences bathing time with stress and emotional tension. We have developed an innovative solution that makes the washing experience more comfortable and effective, transforming it into an enjoyable activity, no longer perceived as an obligation, but rather as a moment of play and connection with one's handler. Background: Executive Course in Pet Design at POLI.design.
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