Field Guide: 5 Insanely Posh Dog Hotels
The cheery check-in area at What A Good Dog on the Main Line. | Photo by Jauhien Sasnou.
What A Good Dog // Frazer
Owner Mary Remer, who’s spent more than 30 years training dogs, believes socialization makes most canines happiest, so she designed her state-of-the-art, 18,000-square-foot facility around that concept. There are 20 play yards and five fields for small-group romping, a misting system for refreshing dogs, and an indoor agility course. Come sleepy-time, staffers match dogs to their neighbors by breed, age, sex and temperament to reduce anxiety. Overnight stays come with lots of time in the sun; you can also add one-on-one leash walks, games of catch, swimming lessons and straight-up cuddle time. go here for: Extra love and attention for your senior dog. // 295 Three Tun Road.
The Cottage Small Dog Daycare // Glen Mills
You don’t have to stress over big bullies at this niche kennel for the under-20-pound set only. Pint-size pups interact all day, running around the playroom and through the back door to a fenced-in play space. (For those who need a break from the action, there’s plenty of baby-talk time in the arms of staffers.) go here: If you’ve got a shih tzu, chihuahua, Yorkie or other small dog who prefers to fraternize with her own kind. // 3 Woodland Drive.
DogVacay // Everywhere
It was only a matter of time before someone created a social network that took a bite out of the pet-sitting space. On DogVacay, you can search by zip code and find dog-lovers who live nearby and are willing to take your pet into their own homes. The profiles are extensive, and Amazon-like customer ratings are helpful in determining who will be the best fit. Prices start at $25 a night, and the site guarantees pet insurance, handles all monetary transactions, and promises daily photo updates. go here: If you’re a city dweller without access to kennels that have lots of space. // Dogvacay.com.
Country Kennel // Lindenwold
The ultimate stamp of approval: This is where local vets send their pets. Each individual kennel has indoor and outdoor space, so dogs can lounge alfresco on their private patios, protected from sun and rain, when they please. There are large outdoor runs for individual and group play, and dogs enjoy one-on-one time with walks, ball tosses and tummy scratches. One serious perk: delivery pizza, made by a local pizza shop to canine-friendly specifications. go here for: The convenience. Country Kennel provides a shuttle or private limo pickup and drop-off in South Jersey and many parts of Philly. // 2750 Egg Harbor Road.
Family Pet Resort // Newtown Square
You can’t miss this pet palace — the big red barn makes an immediate impression. Dogs can spend the night in either suites or luxury villas (which are perfect for siblings), complete with flat-screen TVs. The add-on options here are endless: group or private play, moonlight strolls, special customizable treats and tuck-ins at night. go here for: Peace of mind — an on-site emergency vet facility is staffed 24 hours a day. // 3921 Miller Road.
