Veterinary Clinic Design
The Challenge
Most veterinary clinics are designed for human efficiency, not animal wellbeing. Our client asked: how might we create a care experience that works across species?
The Outcome
Multi-species blueprints for clinics that improved staff wellbeing, patient calmness & client satisfaction.
Key contributions
Separate sensory-based service routes → reduce noise and scent exposure.
Clear visual cues → help clients navigate calmly, reassuring dogs.
Noise- and odor-insulated end-of-life pods → for dignified care.
Lighting, CMF, and furniture guidelines → aligned to canine perception.
Patient personas → guided design for different care needs.
At a Glance
Client: MARS Petcare / VCA
Methods: Wearable canine POV cameras, stakeholder interviews & sensory mapping.
Deliverables: Multi-species service blueprints, interior CMF guidelines & patient personas.
Our Approach
We interviewed veterinarians, staff, and program champions to uncover systemic challenges in clinic design. In parallel, we integrated canine “participants” by using wearable cameras that captured their perspective during visits. Together, these methods revealed key stress triggers — such as wellness patients being routed past surgical areas.
Client Reflection
“Eye-opening ; pH-auna’s approach helped us understand what we do and how we could do it better from an entirely different viewpoint, that improves care for all stakeholders involved.” — MARS Petcare