Luxury Pet-friendly Hotels

Sure, there are plenty of “pet-friendly” (and the slightly less-welcoming “pet-tolerant”) hotels out there for you and your wandering cat or canine companion. But when you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you probably crave pampering more than usual. And so, we’re guessing, does your pet. Luckily, hotels across the country are upping the ante on pet amenities and luxury hotel services for the animal set, so that you and your favorite companion can rest a little more comfortably.

The trendy W Hotels in such cities as New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Honolulu, San Francisco, and Seattle, trade in minimalist elegance that still feels totally indulgent. Their pet package is no exception. Upon arrival, dogs and cats are greeted with a toy, a treat, an ID tag, a custom “W” pet bed, as well as food and water bowls waiting in the room. The hotel also provides guests with litter boxes, waste bags, dog and cat-customized first-aid kits, and concierges ready to advise on anything from grooming to doggie birthday cakes.

For an even more pet-centric experience, visit The Muse Hotel in New York (one of the Kimpton Hotels), where the “Pampered Pooch Package” features many of the same amenities as the W—specialty beds, food and water bowls with bottled water, a mini-bar stocked with treats for pets and people, and an assortment of accessories in case guests left anything behind. And then there’s Ginger, The Muse’s “Director of Pet Relations.” And did we mention—Ginger is a six year-old Teacup Pomeranian “who prefers Prada, visits to the spa and ahi tuna,” according to her personal getting-to-know-you website? Surely she’s a great guide to NYC’s canine-centric attractions. We just wonder who answers all her e-mails…

And then there’s New York’s Hotel Benjamin. Their “Dream Dog” program is so luxurious that it rivals even the most generous of human hotel experiences. While at the Benjamin, your dog will sleep in one of three specialty memory-foam orthopedic dog beds from the “Dog Bed Menu,” swaddled in extra sheets. House-made dog food cooked with “human-quality ingredients” like salmon, tofu, or chicken and vegetables arrives via room service—though don’t ask us how pets are expected to read the ScooterFood® menu. Your dog then dines from ceramic bowls in a wrought iron stand, all resting on a chenille place mat.

Just in case that’s not fancy enough, all pet guests receive complimentary toys and treats, as well as a tiny plush bathrobe, a spa basket full of lavender-scented bath products, and even DVDs to keep them occupied when you’re out of the room. The hotel also provides a list of off-site amenities, some with discounts for guests enrolled in the Dream Dog experience, from “pet psychics” to “pet event planners” and even “pet taxis.”

Now, we realize that some of this might seem a little ridiculous, but is a drop of over-the-top such a bad thing, for you or your pet? If your pet gets to relax, so do you—and isn’t that what vacation is all about?

Summer's Top 10 Pet-friendly Vacation Destinations

Memorial Day is just around the corner and on its heels is summer break. Grab the kids, the swim gear and hit the road
— but, oh, wait, what about Spot and Fido? Bring them along, too!

There's no reason the family pet should be excluded from the family vacation, especially considering the number of pet-friendly options. From RV'ing across country to going for a day trip to the local state park, families and pets can enjoy summer vacationing together more now than ever before.

1. The YMCA of the Rockies. Nationally recognized as one of the country premier vacation destinations, the YMCA of the Rockies has two pet-friendly vacation locations in the Colorado Rockies. The Estes Park Center offers beautiful trails for canine-friendly hiking and every Friday during July, a Yappy Hour is hosted for canine guests. Yappetizers and doggy drinks will be served and special guests will give presentations on subjects such as canine nutrition, obedience and agility, and veterinarian advice. At the second location, near Winter Park, dog owners seem to love the serenity of Snow Mountain Ranch and the wide variety of trails available for them and their pets.

Both locations offer a wide variety of activities exclusively for humans, including mini golf, disc golf, swimming, fly fishing, rafting, horseback riding, guided hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, arts and crafts centers, day camp programs, and family nature programs. For more information, visit www.ymcarockies.org

2. Victorian Inn. Perfect for a delicate doggie's sensibilities is the Victorian Inn, in Monterey, Calif. The historic inn offers a pooch-friendly package that comes with two treats: "Love Me, Love My Dog" includes cozy, specially designed accommodations for two humans and one hound, souvenir water bowls, tail wagging doggie snacks, a beach toy; and for the pet owners, continental breakfast buffet and an evening wine and cheese reception. Each room has a fireplace — the perfect place for pooches to curl up and nap.

Near to shops and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and with its wide open, pet perfect beaches, extensive oceanfront walking paths and dog-friendly attitude, Monterey is the epitome of a dog's life. Plus, your adventures might win you a prize. Each month, the hotel's staff picks one favorite "Fido-in-Monterey" photo for a complimentary one-night stay at the Victorian Inn. But the Victorian Inn does more than just give weary travelers a respite, it also helps homeless animals. Ten percent of every "Love Me, Love My Dog" package is donated to the SPCA for Monterey County. For more information, visit www.victorianinn.com

3. Canine Club Getaway. Described as the "Club Med for Dogs," Canine Club Getaway only happens in 2010 from June 2 to June 6 at Lake George, NY. The all-inclusive, resort-style 4-day getaway holds dozens of activities daily, such as swimming — where dogs are allowed in the pool — agility classes, hiking, Frisbee, lure coursing, flyball, doggie skateboarding, canine CPR, as well as "barks and crafts."

In addition, there are daily seminars by expert trainers and veterinarians on topics including Emergency Canine First Aid, Dog Psychology 101 and Training Fusion. While dogs are allowed everywhere — from seminars to the bar and dining areas — plenty of "human friendly" activities are offered: horseback riding, country line dancing and an on-site spa. For more information, visit www.canineclubgetaway.com

4. Su'ruff Camp. In Cali, the surf's up and for dogs, that means the Fifth Annual Dog Surfing Competition! As part of Loews Hotels' award-winning Loews Loves Pets program, the May 22nd surf event is raising money this year for the San Diego Police Department Unit. Through the course of the "surf dog" weekend, a special room rate applies — plus, all surf dogs receive a pet placemat, food and water bowls, dog tags, treats and scoop bags. For entering the competition, doggie contestants get surf shorts or a bandana.

But if you can't make it out for the May event, Coronado Surfing Academy offers doggie surf lessons nearly year round, in partnership is Loews Coronado Bay Resort. For more information, visit www.loewssurfdog.blogspot.com

5. Unleashed Dog Parks. If someone said "doggie park" and "summer vacay" in the same sentence you may be less than enthused, but Unleashed Dog Park isn't your ordinary doggie playdate locale. Located in Dallas, Texas, it's a giant (at 50,000-square feet of special K-9 turf) indoor dog amusement park. As the nation's first indoor, off-leash play park, it also offers shopping, dining and dog services, such as "paw-cures" and blueberry facials for both owners and pets. With day care services also provided, the family can get out and enjoy the nearby lakes and water parks, as well as other tourist attractions in Dallas. For more information, visit www.unleasheddogparks.com

6. Queen Mary 2. Known as the largest passenger vessel currently sailing the seas, the Queen Mary 2 is also reported to be the only cruise which allows pets to join their owners on deck. Operated by Cunard Line, the "Pets on Deck" program offers Queen Mary 2 canine passengers fresh-baked biscuits at turn-down, a choice of beds and blankets, and even a QM2-logo coat. The kennel program is overseen by a full-time kennel master, while the kennels and adjacent indoor and outdoor walking areas are open throughout the day, so guests can spend time with their pets.

But the program is not just for dogs. Cats are invited too, and either sort of pet will get a portrait with their owners, a crossing certificate and personalized cruise card. For information, visitwww.cunard.com

8. EPIC Hotel. Fees here and there add up when travel plans include the family pet, yet, in downtown Miami, Kimpton's EPIC Hotel doesn't see the four-legged family member as an extra cost: Pets stay free! Various pet-friendly services and amenities are available including restful accommodations in a luxury guestroom; VIP (Very Important Pet) amenity; pet bowl and pet bed; leash and plastic bags for dog walks; as well as pet sitting, grooming, walking and massages.

If your suite needs even more puppy love, Kimpton's Guppy Love Program is available at EPIC, where guests can request a live goldfish to stay overnight in their guestroom, never worrying about caring for their fishy friends because hotel staff provides daily feedings and care. For more information, visit www.epichotel.com

9. Colorado Springs. Yes, the Colorado city and the surrounding Pikes Peak region has been named one of the nations pet-friendliest by Men's Health and Forbes.com. Boasting of mountain scenery chalked full of trails and open spaces, the destinations screams adventure and is home to seven dog parks. Pet-friendly accommodations exist for both dogs and cats, while attractions and activities run the gamut, including Buckskin Joe Frontier Town & Railway where pets go where you go, on a horse-drawn trolley into town or on the train ride; Cripple Creek District Museum, Garden of the Gods Trading Post, Historic Manitou Springs and Manitou Cliff Dwelling are all sites, among others, open to leashed pets; and, Wilderness Aware Rafting and Royal Gorge Bridge & Park offer free kennel services while the family enjoys the rides.

With most shops and restaurants being pet-friendly, even offering treats and water, the Colorado Springs region is a pet owner's paradise. For more information, visit www.VisitCOS.com

10. Alexandria, Va. For the history buffs, this town is complete with trivia-rich sites that also happen to be pet-friendly. With 15 pet friendly hotels in price ranges to suit most travel budgets, the city offers many seasonal outdoor dining areas for families with pooches, while various tours are completely open to leashed canines, including Arlington Cemetery, George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and the Torpedo Art Factory Center. Going for a cruise up the Potomac River is also a canine option, as well as a walking tour of Alexandria, a hike on the Mount Vernon Trail and, of course, several dog parks. For more information, visit http://gosoutheast.about.com/od/familybudgettravel/tp/dog_friendly_alexandria.htm.

More photos from the Dog & Baby event

The Silver Spoon Dog & Baby Hollywood Buffet Recap

On May 7th & 8th, we spent 2 days at the 9th Annual Silver Spoon Dog & Baby Hollywood Buffet in Century City, Los Angeles. The two day long event not only gifted celebrities, but also gave back. This year's event was benefiting Best Friends Animal Society. There were quite a few really adorable dogs for adoption there and we hope they will find a lovely home call their own very soon.

We met many new and old friends. Mochi and Jolie had a blast. They were playing, chasing each other, rolling over on the grass...and of course they got a lot attention too. 

Our spring collection line was really popular and received rave reviews. Yeah! Let's keep the great work coming!

Our sun umbrella -- little dress tops become the small wind chimes. How cute!

Our table -- looks pretty good! :)

Harper was modeling our Amelie dress. She looked so adorable in that dress! This was her very first dress

and it looked like custom made for her. Harper and her daddy fell in loved with it!!

We were so happy to see them happy too. :)

Another "model-like" chihuahua was trying on

our Bailee dress dop. He was such a pro!:)

New Hair Accessories -- The Rainbow Series

We are creating a series of Hair bows for your beloved fur babies -- The Rainbow Series. Here are just some sample

test shots we'd love to share with you: California Sunshine; Pink Lady and Purple Rain. 

Amelie Dress is featured in the Pet Elite Summer 2010 issue!

Our beautiful and very popular Amelie dress is featured in The Pet EliteSummer 2010 issue! What a lovely way to start a breezy summer! Click here to check it out their online digital version of the hot issue!

The Silver Spoon Dog & Baby Hollywood Buffet

Mochi & Jolie has been invited to participate The 9th Annual Silver Spoon Dog & Baby Hollywood Buffet this coming May. 

Every Spring in Hollywood there is one event that gets celebrity moms

(of both human and furbabies) out and about to learn about the latest luxury goods and services for their babies. The Silver Spoon Hollywood Dog and Baby Buffet is something that these elite moms look forward to. 

The two day long event not only gifts celebrities, but also gives back. This year's event is benefiting Best Friends Animal Society. We are thrilled to be a part of this great event and stay tuned for all the buzz and fuzz!

Top ten names for dogs and cats

For the first time, the most popular name for a female dog is also the most popular name for a new baby girl. Bella was the number one name for female dogs in 2009, according to Veterinary Pet Insurance Co., in Brea, Calif., which tracks its clients' pet names. Last year, Bella — short for Isabella or Isabel — was also the most popular name for baby girls, according to Parents Magazine, which tracks human names.

The popularity of the name Bella for dogs, humans, and even cats — number three on the VPI list — is also an homage to the popular character, Isabella Marie "Bella" Swan of the Twilight series of novels by Stephanie Meyer.

Chloe, the number two name for cats and the number nine name for dogs in 2009, was also the number six name for baby girls of the human variety.

A recent analysis of VPI's 480,000 insured pets revealed the top pet names for 2009.*

Top Ten Names for Dogs

1. Bella  2. Max  3. Bailey  4. Lucy  5. Molly

6. Buddy  7. Maggie  8. Daisy  9. Chloe  10. Sophie

Top Ten Names for Cats

1. Max  2. Chloe  3. Bella  4. Oliver  5. Tiger

6. Smokey  7. Tigger  8. Lucy  9. Shadow  10. Angel

Source: Veterinary Pet Insurance Co., 2010 Brea, Calif.

Giving pets the same name as human babies makes their rising status to full-fledged family members almost complete.
"Pet naming trends are reflecting the humanization of pets," says Dr. Carol McConnell, chief veterinary medical officer for VPI.
“When people consider their pet an integral part of the family, they are more inclined to pick a human name for it.”

New hair accessories

The new hair accessories line is still under development but it has already generated some great buzz.

To help us improve the design, we invited our "supermodel" Mochi to take a couple test shots at our studio.

She is such a pro and we are very happy with the look. Cute, Cute, Cute! 

And the clip is really easy to put it on and won't slide off. :) Yeah!

Mochi, Jolie and Me

Mochi and Jolie love me. They love to be near me. The closer the better.  I know that while oftentimes this is due to undying devotion to be near me, I also accept that sometimes it isn't me at all that is the attraction. It is what I am doing. Such as eating. Or looking like I'm going to eat something. 

Yes, I admit it, we all think about food constantly, but especially Mochi. She knows my daily routine -- when I am going to have my three meals and when I am going to grab a late night snack. She thinks she should get one too whenever I have one. And she thinks whatever I am having must be delicious. Oddly enough, for a dog, she LOVES fruits, specially apple. As soon as I grab one out of the fridge, nothing can allure her away until she satisfyingly "finishes" the apple with me together. Jolie is a lot pickier. She only goes for the ones have meat or sweets. They love the clicking sound of me opening a cookie jar -- no matter how far away, they will appear right in front of you in no time.

But, yes, I love the fact that mostly they follow me because they love me and want to be with me all the time. As soon as I sit down on my office chair, Jolie wants to be "squeezed" between me and the back of the chair. Mochi always wants to be on my laps. This can sometimes make actually working a little challenging, but I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Our dogs bring us such joy with their love and devotion. Their loyalty is unchallenged by few human friendships. They love us no matter who we are, how much money we make, how famous we aren't or any of the other things the world judges us by. Dogs are one of the greatest gifts we are given. They are angels from heaven. Hug your dog today.

Pet names highlight status as family members

The day care roster includes Hannah, Cameron, Sophie, Henry, Tucker and Emma. They are the same names you'd find at just about any day care center in town. The only thing that might raise an eyebrow - or in this case, a whisker - is the fact that these names were plucked from an attendance sheet at Wag a Lot, a day care for dogs, in Atlanta.

Hannah is a German shepherd. Cameron and Henry are lab mixes. Sophie's a poodle; Emma, a boxer; Tucker, a goldendoodle.
Not one of the 43 dogs playing and fetching at the doggie day care answers to Spot, Rover or even Pepper.

Many people are choosing family or celebrity names for their furry friends, considered a reflection of the deepening bond owners have with their pets. Seventy percent of dog owners (and 65 percent of cat owners) said they consider their dog a full-fledged family member, according to a recent survey by the American Pet Products Association. Dogs and cats get dressed up for Halloween and buckled up in the car during drives. About 7 percent of dog owners and 5 percent of cat owners throw birthday parties for their beloved pets, according to the association. The attachment doesn't even loosen at bed time. It's estimated four of every 10 dogs sleep in their owners' beds, according to the association.

So, when it comes to names, pet owners nowadays ruminate much like an expectant couple.

Among the most popular dog names are Lucy, Jack, Bella and Charlie, according to an analysis by petfin der.com, an online database of hundreds of thousands of adoptable pets. The trendiest cat names also include Lucy and Molly, though some perennial faves - Shadow, Smokey, Tiger, Tigger and Precious - are holding their own.

Pet Parent's Day -- April 25

The nation’s only official day celebrating pet caregivers, Pet Parent’s Day lands on the last Sunday in April — this year, April 25.

For those who tirelessly scoop poop, dish out kibble and share a cramped bed with four paws, this day is for you.

You’ve planned birthday parties for Fido, bought specially-formulated oatmeal shampoo that costs more than your own, and made

a point to stroll down the pet aisle every time you shop at the convenience store. You might even plan vacations that include your pet, or make a point to carve out a couple of hours a day for playtime at home, a dog park or even the beach.

Devoted pet parents like you deserve more than a pat on the back. But celebrating Pet Parent’s Day with a furry or feathered friend doesn’t mean you have to go far from home or spend any extra bucks.

Some suggestions for the pet parents:

• Snuggle with your fur babies in bed all morning and then go for a jog/walk together later.

• Watch a great movies together: Lassie, Benji, 101 Dalmatians, Lady and the Tramp, Hotel for dogs...

• Create a new routine walk by mixing up the directions or going somewhere new. 

• Eat lunch at a restaurant that actually serves pets and humans. (Try this: Lazy Dog Cafe in Redondo Beach, CA)

• Try on a new outfit for everyone! May we suggest the Spring Collection from Mochi & Joiefor your fur babies? :)

Whatever your weekend plans, take some time to remember who the big dog in the house is and reward yourself with an extra

T-R-E-A-T, or two.

The Modern Dog -- Venice, California

We stopped by The Modern Dog (Venice, CA) today and can't help noticing how beautifully they are displaying our new

NOUVEAU Collection pieces. And of course we took a couple snap shots! 

The Modern Dog is such a cute and sweet boutique that we adore so much. Check it out if you are in the area!

-The Modern Dog, 1611 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Venice, CA- 

The Melodie Dress Shirt is featured in The Pet Elite Spring 2010 issue!

We are so thrilled that our Melodie dress shirt is featured in The Pet Elite Spring 2010 issue! The dress shirt is great for the beautiful upcoming spring!
 Click here to check it out their online digital version of the new issue!

A Pet's Ten Commandments

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends,
    your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don’t understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. 
    Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can’t bear to watch. Don’t make me face this alone. 
      Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Please pass this on to other pet owners. We do not have to wait for Heaven, to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness.
It is here on earth and has four legs!

New Year's Resolution

This year, make a New Year's resolution to help your pet live a healthier, happier life.
But do you know your dog may be considering some resolutions of his/her own?

Top 10 Resolutions by Dogs:

10. Owner on floor, dog in bed.

9. Stop begging and actually get a seat at the dinner table.

8. Give up the dream of ever catching my tail.

7. Bark like a big dog but still get cuddled on lap like a little dog.

6. Get back at cat for litter box incident.

7. Find every bone I ever buried.

4. No more haircuts! (come fall, I can go as a Komondor for Halloween).

3. Become alpha dog in my house. Well, at least stop letting the cat push me around.

2. Invent goggles that allow me to see the electric fence.

1. Finally pass that darn AKC Canine Good Citizen test.

Woof! Woof!

Health Benefits of Pets

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most households in the United States have at least one pet. Why do people have pets? There are many reasons. They comfort us and they give us companionship. And on top of that, they bring us
great health benefits:

Pets can decrease our:
Blood Pressure
Cholesterol Levels
Triglyceride Levels
Feelings of Loneliness

Pets can increase our:
Opportunities for exercise and  outdoor activities
Opportunities for socialization

How great it is to have a loving and loyal pet in our life!

Financial Adviser Counsels Pet-Friendly Planning

A very recent article in the Wall Street Journal was brought to our attention: any pet lovers should have a plan for their beloved pets.

** Mention “pets” and “estate planning” in the same sentence, and many people think of the late Leona Helmsley, the Manhattan hotelier and convicted tax cheat who left $12 million to Trouble, her Maltese pooch, and also specified that her trust of more than $5 billion be used to benefit dogs.

A judge later reduced Trouble’s personal bequest to $2 million, and the Helmsley estate decided to give only $1 million to dog causes. But the will added to the public perception of Helmsley as someone with a distant relationship to reality.

That’s too bad, says Sue Stevens, a financial planner, CPA and self-described “huge animal lover” who counsels clients to consider their pets when making estate plans.

Stevens, the founder of Stevens Wealth Management in Deerfield, Ill., discusses pet planning in her new book, Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is, as well as on her Web site, Financial-Happiness.com. “You don’t have to be Leona Helmsley,” she says, “but if you don’t have a plan, your loyal companions could end up in a shelter,” where they will be euthanized or donated to research labs if they are not adopted.

Pets need not get the royal treatment in a will, says Stevens, who was director of financial planning at Morningstar for nine years. But she cites four steps that any pet lover should take when planning an estate:

1. Choose a “pet guardian.” It should be someone who wants to care for your pets and understands their needs. Make sure to name contingent guardians, in the event your first choice becomes unwilling or unable to serve. “Do not assume the people you choose as beneficiaries for your assets are the best people to care for your animals,” says Stevens.

2. Decide on financial assistance. It costs about $1,400 a year on average to care for a dog, and $1,000 for a cat, according to a recent survey by the American Pet Products Association. You can expect either pet to live at least 13 years. As Leona Helmsley demonstrated, it’s possible to fund a trust for a pet, and the trustee need not be the person responsible for care.

3. Add language to your trust to provide for pet care. Include instructions on how the funds are to be used (food, veterinary care, pet sitters, grooming, etc.) as well as plans for interim care until long-term placement is completed. Your lawyer can do this, but Stevens provides sample language on her Web site.

4. Write instructions for your caregiver. This should include a complete medical record, feeding instructions, a list of favorite toys, even names of friends–both human and animal.

A related concern is establishing care for your pets if you are incapacitated or require nursing care. Plans should be discussed in advance with the person you have named as your financial power of attorney. Stevens also recommends the Web site of Eden Alternative (edenalt.org), a nonprofit organization that advocates for improving the quality of elder care by, among other initiatives, encouraging the right to have pets in institutional settings. The Web site lists dozens of pet-friendly facilities around the country. In addition, Lollypop Farm (lollypop.org) provides financial assistance so the elderly can keep pets in their homes.

One pet in need of no public assistance is Helmsley’s dog Trouble, who was last reported living comfortably with the manager of the Helmsley Sandcastle Hotel in Sarasota, Fla. **