Dog Spa... Is it Torture or Pampering?

Pamper or torture? Over the past few years, dog spa's have steadily increased in popularity. Your almost certain to find at least one in every large city, and several in major cities. It's understandable to love your pet, but how far should you take it. Do dog spas offer an unforgettable time of luxurious pampering for your pet, or does your dog look at it as torture?

Most dogs are timid, and reluctant of new places, especially when they are left behind by the owners they trust. The combination of new smells, a strange place, and unfamiliar faces leads to up to very tense hound. My dog hates baths, more then anything, and using a great smelling shampoo just seems to add to his aggravation. I guess you can say my pup is just like a kid, the muddier he can get, the better.

Prices, that's another issue. Have you seen the rates these dog spas charge? Some of them are affordable, and offer overnight, to weekly care. This is great if your going on vacation and can't take them with you. However, I believe leaving your pet with a family member, or neighbor that they all ready know is in the best interest of the animal. Amazing though, some of these spas only offer spa treatments, which can last anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours. And the price of a pampered pooch, don't come cheap. Here is an example of the spa prices you'll have to pay for Rover's day at the spa.

Full body message, $10.00 for 15 minutes and up.

Doggie bath, with luxurious shampoo $15.00 and up.

Pawdicure, which includes a nail trim, and polish $12.00 and up.

Aromatherapy $10.00 and up

Paw treatment, which includes a paw massage with paw balm to soothe tired feet $10.00 and up.

Heated hydrotherapy baths start at $35.00.

These are just a few services that most dog spas offer. Other pampering options at more designer spas include, your dogs own private room complete with a television, and bed. You can also select movies for your dog to watch. They'll even serve your pup fresh warm doggie popcorn. How about a body wrap, with non the less then warm fluffy towels. These high end spas can cost hundreds of dollars for full packages. If your unable to get out, not need to worry, mobile spas can come to you. Some dog spa resorts also offer taxi services for additional fee's. But, the question remains is it really pampering to the pooch?

In the end it's really up to your dog. However, little things like giving him kisses, letting him sleep beside you on the couch, and holding him during a thunderstorm goes along way. Wouldn't it make more sense to pamper your pup yourself? Dog boutique are also gaining in popularity, and there you can buy all the ritzy products dog spas use. Wouldn't that mean more to your pet? The inspiration for this article came to me after I walked into a local doggie spa, and seen 6 little sad faces. If you've ever been to the pound, then you know the look I'm taking about. I'm not saying dog spas are all bad, I just don't think there for every dog.