Edith Wharton said it best: “My little dog — a heartbeat at my feet.”
Of course, the same can be said for my little cat, my midsized Aussie or my oversized Great Dane.
When a wonderful pet steals your heart, you return that sentiment by providing him or her with love, attention and a comfortable place to land.
Today, many pet parents are taking their devotion for their animals to another level, creating actual pet suites for their tail-wagging friends.
And why not? A dedicated space for your pets provides a soothing environment for them when you are away, a comfortable place where they can sleep at night, and a safe haven during lightning storms or when company visits.
Whether you can devote a small room to your pet, or space within a room, creating the perfect pet suite is fun and satisfying.
The first step: choosing a space adequate for your pet’s needs. Your pet will need good air circulation, proper temperature control and safety from electrical cords, plants, chemicals and items that may easily tip over.
It’s also important that your pet not feel boxed into a small space. Most professional pet suites are enclosed on three sides, with an open view from the fourth.
To allow for ease of cleanup, provide the space with a hard surface floor. A water-, stain- and odor-resistant epoxy coated floor is an ideal option. Plus, the heavy duty surface stands up to wear and tear and is quick to sweep or mop. Do-it-yourself epoxy floor systems are available as floor tiles, roll-out mat flooring or as paint-on kits.
When it comes to bedding, you have dozens of choices. Julie and Al Winters, owners of Canine Cozy Care Resort in Stanwood, opted for cots made from PVC and nylon mesh weave for the pet suites at their resort. “They are very durable and the dogs seem to absolutely love curling up on them,” Julie said. Even her kids love the cots. “I’ll find them sitting in the cots with a dog in their arms,” she said.
Julie and Al have been so impressed with the cots that they now offer them for sale. They range in price from $61 to $81. Soft covers are also available.
If you have several pets who love to snuggle together, or a supersized dog who sleeps alone, a toddler bed might be the perfect option.
Another possibility is a self-warming thermal pet bed that reflects your pet’s own body heat back to the animal. The thermal heat is soothing to kittens and puppies, aging adults and pets recovering from illness or injury.
The felines in your life will love a kitty hammock, window perch or towering cat condo with shelves for lounging and a post for climbing. And don’t forget, a window view will provide them with added entertainment.
Extra special luxuries are the topping on the cake. Or, in this case, the gravy on the Milk Bone. A PetSafe Cat Veranda will give your cat or small dog a chance to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the house. The veranda is basically an outdoor sun room that mounts to a sash window. It includes a covered roof, an indoor lounging platform and a flap that can be secured for restricted use.
Another luxury: a pet spa. A small-scaled shower, portable pet tub or professional tub, such as the Booster Bath sold online at www.petsuppliespro.com, can save you time and trips to the groomer. With the addition of a sturdy table or countertop and your favorite grooming tools, you’ll be able to give extra pampering to your cherished four-legged friends.
Canine Cozy Care Resort
2919 317th Street NW
Stanwood, WA 98292
(360) 939-2227
www.cccresort.net
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