[News] Doggy Daycares Are Big Business

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Mississauga, Ontario, Canda - Rover and Spot never had it so good.

In fact, there's plenty of room (and board) around town for their four-legged friends, as well.

Doggie destinations, where man's best friend is pampered to the hilt by trained dog handlers, abound in, and around, Mississauga.

There are many options available to Mississauga's estimated 45,000 dog owners, whether they're seeking a daycare for their animal, overnight lodging or a range of other services.

A scan of the Yellow Pages is testimony to that. Dozens of kennels, resorts, spas, salons, grooming services, training centres, pet transportation services and daycare facilities for dogs -- and cats -- vie for the attention, and business, of pet owners. Pet-sitting services, in which bonded and insured dog-lovers come to clients' homes to walk, feed and play with Rover, are also easily found in Mississauga.

Of course, people can also leave pets with their veterinarians. The demand for dog care is huge.

Janet Michaud, City of Mississauga animal shelter supervisor, said while there are currently 15,740 licenced dogs here, the actual number is much greater.

"I would say (the real number) is about triple that, if not more," said Michaud, noting the majority of dog owners don't licence their pets.

In on the Bark, a 2,800-sq.-ft. dog daycare located in the heart of the Meadowvale business district on Argentia Rd., opened in September.

Customers, the majority of whom work nearby, drop their dogs off in the morning and pick them up at night.

In between, the dogs are treated to companionship, playtime with other dogs, much-needed naps and two nature walks. Anne McIntyre, managing partner of the fledgling business, describes the operation as a full-service dog care facility for busy people who want the best for their pets.

In addition to daycare, In on the Bark also provides training sessions, grooming, spa treatments and other services.

In on the Bark trainer Karen Minaker, who has been working with dogs for 25 years, said their location is a bonus.

Backing onto a large green belt, and in the midst of the business area, In on the Bark allows its working customers peace of mind knowing their animals are enjoying the outdoors and being cared for only a stone's throw away.

"We know how to pamper your pet when you can't be there. Pets are like children -- they're part of the family," said Minaker.

Known affectionately among her clientele as the "Dog Whisperer", for her ability to relate to dogs and get positive results during training and behaviour modification sessions, Minaker describes the new business as a "forward-thinking...doggie daycare, spa, boutique and agility training centre." She said response from the public has been good and they're getting new customers every day.

Laura Rodrigues, a corporate affairs co-ordinator with a Meadowvale insurance company, leaves her year-old Yorkshire Terrier, Bijou, at In on the Bark each morning.

"He used to be home alone during the day and seemed depressed," said Rodrigues. "Now, Bijou gets a lot of personal attention. He's become a better listener and is definitely more happy and social."

In on the Bark, located at 2283 Argentia Rd., unit 19, is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m., with dog training sessions running a bit later in the evening.

Daycare spaces must be reserved at least 24 hours in advance. Customers pay $20 to leave their pets for a half-day (five hours), $30 for a full day and $125 for five days.

For more information, call 905-542-3647, or visit online at www.inonthebark.com. Other dog daycares and/or pet-sitting services in Mississauga include Peti Paws Pet Salon and Spa, For Dogs Only, Creature Comforts Pet Services, A-Plus Pet Pro, Wetnose Pet Service Inc., For Pets Sake, Home & Pet Guardian, Crazy About Pets and While You Were Out.

http://www.mississauga.com/mi/busine...-2822113c.html