Lassie Come Home!

Talk to your dogs, anytime, anywhere! Pet Mobility has just introduced a cell phone for dogs. The device attaches to your dog's collar and you have the ability to call the assigned number and speak to your dog. The device has a built in GPS to locate your pet as well as the ability to assign perimeters for your pet, so the device can signal you if your pet strays outside the assigned perimeters. At $350 to $400 per cell phone, I think it will be a while before my dogs, Buddy and Duke have their own private lines!

However, most of us do spoil our pets. The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association says U.S. pet owners spent an estimated $35.9 billion on their furry friends in 2005. We reward the love and affection of our pets with endless luxuries.

When my husband and I vacation, our pets also head to the luxury of a resort. Our resort of choice, 4 Paws Pet Resort uses up to date information technology. Upon checking into the resort your pets name is entered into the system and up comes his file, complete with photo, owners information, vaccination records as well as feeding habits and grooming needs. Monitors throughout the kennel keep a watchful eye on every resident, and heated floors and comfy beds make their stay a spa experience. On the occasion that Buddy & Duke join us, many hotels are now pet friendly and offer dog walking services and special treats.

Internet sites such as Petco, and Pets Unlimited help us find all those accessories our pets need...and if you don't have a pet, at Snookumspets you can virtually browse through photos online and have your new pet delivered to you anywhere in Atlantic Canada.

If all of the above sounds like far too much invest for you...virtual pets are always available!