Mindy Rhodes and John Braxton considered Spike’s needs when searching for an area home six years ago. The six-acre site they found in West Chester was perfect for him.

Spike is not their child; he’s a horse. And his influence on their real estate purchase is becoming a widespread trend, reports Cynthia Henry for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Rhodes thought it would take several years to find an appropriate site for all their animals.

In addition to Spike (not theirs but a boarder), the family was host to three dogs, two cats, two rabbits, four chickens in a coop, and a duck named Lucy. She, at least, wears a diaper when she comes inside. (”I don’t know whether I’d do that again,” Rhodes said.)

But a West Chester listing that cited ample acreage fit their needs perfectly.

The extra space also enabled Rhodes and Braxton to create a small herd for Spike, to give him companionship. Donkeys Mama and Mia were added to the menagerie.

The house fits the family perfectly. The animals love having free run of the three acres, along with a spot by the fire.

“It’s a luxury not to have to walk the dogs,” said Rhodes, citing the advantage of being able to let them run on the vast property.

Read more about these happy pet owners in The Philadelphia Inquirer.