Last year, Americans spent nearly $76 billion on their pets, dogs receiving the majority of those doggie dollars for food, vet visits, supplies and more. Treats, boarding, vitamins, grooming, and toys added up to more than surgical vet visit expenses and twice as much as food. Faux fur soothing beds, gemstone collars, doggles (sunglasses), organic fur coloring, helmets (with visors, of course), down full body jackets and hand-knit alpaca sweaters. We love our dogs? What can we say?
As more pet owners juggle work, travel and play with pet care, they are looking for ways to keep dogs engaged, healthy and happy during the workday or during travel away from home. Still, others prefer their pets to be utterly spoiled, and if pets are boarding for a day or weekend, then you better believe the expectations will be high for Fido’s care and pampering.
Indoor and outdoor play spaces must be temperature regulated, spacious, clean and interesting. A water playground and pool are always nice, water heated to a comfortable temperature with zero-entry and shallow options. Toys must be in good condition and of various sizes and shapes, with plenty to go around.
Tech-savvy pet owners expect online reservation systems with reminders, digital report cards, and other digital interactions. Luxury services like high-tech medical therapies and medicines plus spa services and premium lodging accommodations are expected.
At Pet Paradise Naples, a large synthetic grass play area, water playground, and group play parks are part of the landscape. Owners can also watch their pets via webcam to ensure their dog or cat is having an outstanding visit. The 10,000 square-foot facility offers air-conditioned indoor luxury lodging and play areas, three hours of daily time for play and socializing and peaceful, private cat condos.
There, comprehensive pet care including grooming and veterinary services are offered during boarding and day camp, catering to even the most discerning pet owners. Imagine a perfect spa day with a shampoo, cut, ear cleaning and nail trim.
The daycare should provide a trial day. “We offer a free get-acquainted day so pets and owners can meet our well-trained associated, view our state-of-the-art resort and let your dog or cats enjoy a free day of play on us,” says Michell Gilliam of Pet Paradise.
