It's been throw in a bit of animal decor in my main living spaces. In our dining room, I've used a cowhide rug under the table. It's a great choice for in an eating area because it's pretty stain resistant (Red wine doesn't stain it!).
http://www.designocd.com/2011/07/the-history-of-the-dining-room/
In the living room, I added a faux tortoise shell as focal point on the wall. I love the lacquered finish of this one from the Nate Berkus line at Target.