A woman’s search for her missing dog took an unexpected turn when she discovered Summer, her Cavapoo, nestled in a cardboard house created by her children. Sindy Smart, a 38-year-old mother of two from London, spent over 30 minutes looking for her dog before stumbling upon the cozy setup in her son’s room.
Her son, aged 11, and daughter, aged 13, had been using a cardboard box for play earlier that day. Unbeknownst to Smart, they had cut a window into the box and placed Summer’s blanket inside, transforming it into a makeshift home. The video, shared on December 7 on TikTok, has garnered nearly 69,000 views on the platform under the handle @sindy_smart.
Commenters were quick to appreciate the children’s creativity, with one user noting, “Detached house, window and next to a radiator with a blanket—what not to love?” Smart responded, highlighting her son’s thoughtful design. Another user praised the makeshift house, describing it as “great.”
The cardboard house, topped with paper to mimic a roof, showcases how even simple items can provide enrichment for pets. While Summer likely has toys and a dog bed, many pets are naturally drawn to cardboard boxes. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), DIY puzzle toys are an inexpensive way to keep dogs mentally stimulated indoors.
The AKC suggests several creative activities for dog owners. One option is the **Toilet Tube/Box Dispenser**, where empty toilet paper tubes are filled with soft treats like peanut butter or cream cheese. Alternatively, a box with treat-sized holes can be used to encourage dogs to work for their food.
Another engaging activity is the **Muffin Tin Shell Game**, where treats are hidden in muffin cups and covered with balls that dogs can safely lift. For an interactive challenge, the **Shoebox Hide-and-Seek** involves setting out empty boxes or tubs, with one or more baited with smelly treats, allowing dogs to use their noses to find hidden rewards.
While Summer seems content in her cardboard abode, pet owners should be cautious about allowing dogs to chew on cardboard. Although it is non-toxic, ingesting large amounts can lead to gastrointestinal blockages, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of obstruction include vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, fever above 103°F (39.4°C), and signs of abdominal pain. If any of these symptoms arise, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian promptly.
Despite the potential risks, Summer remains blissful in her new hideaway, a testament to the ingenuity of children and the joy pets find in the simplest of creations.