For my main project I want to build at least one snuffle mat for my dogs. I have two dogs and a cat, so if time is on my side, I would love to make three. Two larger mats and one smaller one. A snuffle mat is essentially a flat mat that has bits of fabric attached to it that create pockets and folds. The pockets and folds are meant to hold kibble or treats. It requires for the pet to use their sense of smell and move around the pieces of the mat so that they are able to access the treats or food. Examples of regular snuffle mats are shown below in Images 1 and 2.

Snuffle mats have so many creative possibilities. Some mats are built to look like food and football fields. There is even an option called a snuffle ball, which is essentially the same thing but wrapped up in a ball form. Examples of the more creative approaches to these mats are shown in Images 3, 4, and 5.

The point of using a snuffle mat is to encourage enrichment for the pet. Enrichment allows for animals to express their natural behaviors. It encourages physical activity and provides mental stimulation that reduces stress and enhances things like learning ability and memory. It also just gives them something to do so they are not bored. I am a very proud dog [and cat] mom and I tend to spoil my pets to the best of my ability (given the college budget). I have always wanted to get each of my pets a snuffle mat but I have never really found one that I’ve liked enough for the fairly hefty price tags. For my two dogs, I need larger mats because they are both large breeds. For my cat (who acts like a mini dog) I could make a smaller mat.

For art and crafting projects I tend to stick to my favorite aesthetic, which is surrealism. I can’t really imagine how I would make this project within the realm of surrealism so I’ve decided to pick up an aesthetic that I do not typically lean towards. After looking at tons of snuffle mats, I landed on the Bloomcore aesthetic. Bloomcore is essentially an aesthetic based on flowers, gardens, and nature [1]. It is a bit different that Naturecore because it focuses more on the flowers and bright colors. I chose this aesthetic because I am an environmental engineer and I liked the snuffle mats that looked more like they belonged in gardens. I also think that adding more color will enhance the enrichment experience for my pets. I am planning on doing something inspired by the mats shown below in Images 6 and 7.

I decided to make the snuffle mat my project because it is functional and will also be a fun way to challenge myself. I have only sewed a couple times in my life, so this will be a new experience for me. I love crafting and my pets so I’m hoping that the final product turns out good for both me and my fur babies.

Citations:

Images:

[1-4] Schwab, S. (2021, May 6). 5 snuffle mats that will actually keep your dog busy. The Dodo. https://www.thedodo.com/dodowell/best-snuffle-mat-for-dogs

[5] Interactive dog toys, portable pet snuffle ball toy,for encourage natural foraging skills, dog chew toys(red rainbow). Walmart.com. (n.d.). https://www.walmart.com/ip/Interactive-Dog-Toys-Portable-Pet-Snuffle-Ball-Toy-for-Encourage-Natural-Foraging-Skills-Dog-Chew-Toys-RED-RAINBOW/3665914636

[6] Anika Kitka. Kitka, A. Giant Wildflower Meadow Forage Mat. Etsy. https://www.etsy.com/listing/1061135746/giant-wildflower-meadow-forage-mat?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=snuffle+mat&ref=sr_gallery-1-17&frs=1&search_preloaded_img=1&organic_search_click=1

[7] Anika Kitka. Kitka, A. Giant Succulent Garden Forage Mat. Etsy. https://www.etsy.com/listing/1336292508/giant-succulent-garden-forage-mat?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=garden+snuffle+mat&ref=sr_gallery-1-16&frs=1&search_preloaded_img=1&organic_search_click=1

Articles:

[1] Wiki, C. to A. (n.d.). Bloomcore. Aesthetics Wiki. https://aesthetics.fandom.com/wiki/Bloomcore