Dog Gone Good

Plenty of pets suffer along with their owners in financial hard times, but for another class of four-legged companions in Southwest Florida, a "dog’s life" is one of pampered comfort. A world of goods and services is available for dogs, cats and other pets, and despite some signs that the industry is starting to feel the economy’s pinch, many of the professionals who provide them are doing very well.

Pet boutiques sell custom furniture and clothes, toys and all-natural, gluten-free foods. There are medical specialists for dermatological disorders, allergy problems and orthopedic issues, as well as behaviorists who deal with training and phobias, and pet massage therapists.

Restaurateurs who allow pets in outdoor seating say it’s a big draw, and owners of pet-friendly hotels say it accounts for as much as 25 percent of their business.

The economy might be in a nosedive, but people who treat their pets like their children are doing all they can to continue high-grade care.

"Not only did I sell out of toys at Christmas, I had to hire extra help to deal with all the business," says Carol Gold, owner of Paws, Claws and Tails pet boutique in Bonita Springs. "Our numbers are ahead of last year. There are customers who I’m sure spend more on their pets than themselves," especially when it comes to the all-natural pet food she sells along with pet beds, harnesses, car seats and other supplies.

But success is neither universal nor guaranteed. Gold saw a couple of similar shops near hers close late last year.

And Ericka Basile, who publishes the magazine Naples Dog and follows the pet industry, sees many of the same strains that other businesses face. She says slow payments from pet shop advertisers are one sign of financial problems.