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 The Dogcatcher's House
Working on a themed project is fun as it inspires you to see how much you can create to match that theme. In this case, the house belongs to a retired dogcatcher who decides to share his home with as many unwanted dogs as he can. And, as you can see, the dogs have literally taken over the house! The house was featured in American Miniaturist #46 (Feb. 2007). I've included more photos here. (NEW! My good friend Courtney Mroch wrote about my miniature dogs! See story here at Families.com.)
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As you'd expect, the house interior was initially pretty run down. Thanks to an endowment from a generous friend and fellow dog lover, Mr. Dogcatcher did some renovations to his well-worn home. Of course, that doesn't mean he's gotten around to taking down his Christmas decorations yet. (At least he has an excuse. With all those dogs, who has time?) Anyway, let's start the tour. Knock on the door and come in. Don't worry, the dogs are friendly. 
If I had to pick a favorite room and photo, it would be the living room. It was fun arranging the dogs everywhere. All the furniture is handmade and has the expected rips and tears. Below: Of course, even in a dollhouse, the dogs prefer the kitchen. A German Shepherd dog eyes the cabinet, puppies play (and piddle). Other dogs are perched here, there and everywhere. 
Upstairs, it's dogs, dogs, dogs! Dalmations, a Basset, Poodle, Sheepdog and more (oh my!) have made the balcony their domain. In the bedroom, the space under the bed makes the perfect place for hide and seek!
Below: The bedroom, before and after. What a difference an interior design change makes! Matching fabric, new curtains, a new rug, a bathroom door and other little touches make the whole house feel more comfy. Funny thing, the house was improved and the dogs multiplied. Oops! The dogs knocked off the toilet seat again after drinking from the toilet. (Oh, like your dogs don't?) 
One more view: Oh, there's where my false teeth went! (*&^! Dogs don't leave anything alone!) Next: Outside, dogs check out the overflowing garbage, perch under the bench and peek through the railing. An original design, the house was inspired by a photo of an antique dollhouse. The exterior siding was made with small fishtank gravel and scale flooring. The top siding was painted red, aged with a coat of gray paint and a "dirty water" wash, then sanded to look worn. Even the yard has realistic touches - watch where you step! 
