Charlotte, NC

Okay, let’s see a quick show of hands: How many of you readers are dog or cat lovers? (Listen … raise the hand that’s not holding the mouse. Don’t want you to lose this page, y’know!) Well, if you really want the best for your bonebastic bowwow or flea-flickin’ feline, then Charlotte’s certainly the place to find it.

From some of the nation’s most thorough groomers, your four-footer will receive the best of cleaning, cutting, combing and “pet”icures — and at some very wallet-friendly prices! Once Fido or Fluffy (or whatever your forever friend’s called) is all dolled up (oh, all right: for macho pets, it’s “made ruggedly handsome”), it’s time to take him/her to the Mall of Meow and Best Buy of Barks, PetSmart. If they don’t have what you want for your pet, face it: it ain’t been made yet!

Then, whether they’ve gotten a new chew-toy or leash, you’ll want to take your canine buddy out for a walk (I don’t recommend walking cats because, quite frankly, they can be too skittish; also, their necks aren’t as strong as dogs’, so straining against a leash could cause windpipe damage!). The best and most pet-friendly walkaround is at Freedom Park (see my earlier entry for more info). Still, the #1 rule is to keep a close and caring eye out for your pet, as well as others.

Now, if you have a meeting or outing of a kind that doesn’t allow pets, and don’t want to leave your dog at home, consider leaving him/her at a resort (yes, you heard me right!) like the Club K-9! It’s a great pet-daycare, and even has an overnight camp! And don’t worry about your bowwow being bound in some cage or whatever; these folks believe in “cageless boarding” and use “doggie suites” instead of actual kennels! This is a favorite among the bark crowd.

And, just like our human children, our furry ones have their share of illness or injury. Whether your cat’s nipped, your pup’s pooped or even if you’ve got a hoarse horse, a good vet is the best ticket to your pet’s return-trip to health. The area has over a hundred competent and compassionate veterinarians ready to help your forever friends whenever they’re down. If you don’t have one, get a recommendation from a pet-blessed friend; though your pet may be in good health now, it’s good to have a vet available and familiar with your animal brood.

Of course, Charlotte, as any city or town, also has its share of stray animals. But, whether they’re runaways or heartlessly kicked out by former owners, there’s still a place for them in this thriving community. You see, the Queen City has rescue groups for strays of every kind (for example, Pom Posse for Pomeranians and Chihuahuas and Golden Retriever Rescue Club. But if you’re looking for a different breed, they’ll be glad to refer you). These are available for adoption, and can provide the happiness and love for any family (or person) that will give them a little TLC in return.

While the QC is a pet-friendly city, with so many services, stores and vets for your furry, four-legged friends, it’s also one that stresses logic at this time of year.
First, it’s wise to have your cat or dog spayed or neutered, to prevent loads of mews and yips that may go untended.
Secondly, make sure your pets have plenty of water — especially if they’re “outside” rascals like Labs, Dobies or Terriers; remember, it’s gonna be a hot summer.
Thirdly, take some time to give your pets plenty of the three “p’s”: petting, praising and playtime.
Along with the proper care, supplies, attention and training, your Tarheel pets will be among the happiest, most gratifying and healthiest in the nation.