Posh Vacations for Pampered Pets
At Gadling, they mentioned an article from the New York Times about traveling with pampered pets, where people are seeking out high end services for their pets, as well as for themselves, when they travel. Among the things offered at the various hotels hoping to cash in on the $38 billion per year owners spend on their pets are animal massages/aromatherapy, plush beds with fine linens, dog biscuits baked by pastry chefs and even portable pet cabanas at the pool.
To find out what hotels will accept pets and what services they offer, check out the website Dogfriendly.com. The W San Diego and the Hotel Helix in Washington offer pet-friendly cocktail hours, while the Loews Coronado Bay Resort in San Diego offers a $300 learn-to-surf package for dogs (not owners). In Aspen, the animal shelter allows visitors to "borrow" pets for the day, a service which often leads to the permanent placement of the animal, as well as giving travelers a chance to strut around town with their furry friend - an important means of blending in in a town where almost 40 percent of guests have pets with them.
Adrienne definitely has a point with Gadling's piece when she questions whether it is appropriate to use man's best friend as a status symbol and an accessory, rather than doing something more "worthwhile" with the money being used, such as donating it to charity. If you and your pet are enjoying it, though, what's the harm? It brings a whole new meaning to the phrase "it's a dog's life."
