In 1870, lawyer and former United States Senator George Graham Vest delivered his closing remarks on behalf of a Warrensburg, Missouri farmer attempting to recoup damages after a neighbor shot his dog, Old Drum. “The one absolutely unselfish friend that a man can have in this selfish world, the one that never deserts him and the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous is his dog,” Vest remarked. The farmer won the case and Vest’s remarks became known as “Eulogy of the Dog.” The speech is considered the origin of the phrase, “Man’s best friend.”
Canines have always enjoyed an extraordinary relationship with their owners. In years past, dogs held many practical roles: protector, hunter, farm hand, and to some extent, friend. Most lived in rural settings, often enjoying the ability to roam freely throughout large parcels of land. As people began moving into urban areas, however, dogs began spending more time indoors. Leash laws and other regulations dictated certain parameters that had to be followed at all times. This resulted in two things: a more emotional relationship between owners and pets and an increased need for attention during working hours. Enter doggie daycares.
Doggie daycares have sprung up all over the country. It is a relatively new phenomenon, however, not catching on nationwide until the early 1990s. The first documented daycare was New York City’s Yuppie Puppy Pet Care, which opened in 1987. There are now tens of thousands located all over the country, including several in the Fargo/Moorhead/West Fargo area.
Monica Adamietz opened Chasing Tails in West Fargo five years ago. The business provides a vast range of services, including doggie daycare and boarding. It was the loving relationship Monica shared with her owns dogs that served as the catalyst for her decision. “When I moved up here I took my dogs Meko and Watson into the vet for their vaccinations,” Monica began. “As I was visiting with my veterinarian, she suggested with my background that I should open a daycare; so I researched the field for over a year and decided to take the plunge.”
Chasing Tails and doggie daycares like it are much more than a place to house a pet while the owner is away. In fact, they closely resemble daycares for children, complete with snacks, naps, and playtime. Some daycares, however, are taken to another level altogether. At the Pooch Hotel in California, for instance, dogs are treated better than most people. The “palace suite” rents for $100 per night and includes fluffy raised bedding, a flat-panel television, turn-down service, and choice of rub down, pool time, or treadmill use. Extra snuggling, massages, facials, pedicures, and gourmet meals can be added for an additional charge.
Chasing Tails may not provide palace suites, but they do ensure that pets are well cared for and provided with all of the comforts of home. This appeals to owners who consider their pets one of the family and are as concerned about their wellbeing as any other mother or father. As that relationship continues to grow and develop, businesses that provide high-end pet services will enjoy a thriving market.
Like Chasing Tails, Moorhead’s Doggy Depot offers a wide range of services aimed at providing comfort to pets and security to owners, including activities designed to deliver stimulation and exercise. “I never wanted to leave my animals at a regular boarding facility; I wanted them to play all day,” explained Doggy Depot owner Becky Black. It is that activity element that appeals to many owners. Consider your own needs: would you rather lie around the home all day alone, or play with your friends? Dogs likely feel the same way.
The concept of daycare may have originated for canines, but that doesn’t mean other animals aren’t served. “So far I have cared for dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas, and cockatiels,” Monica explained. “I understand that people have more than dogs as part of their families, so we welcome mtultiple family members.” Although Doggy Depot does not serve cats, it has seen its own array of animals, including a turtle.
According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, 68% of households in the United States owned pets in 2014. Compared to just 56% in 1988, it is obvious that animals are taking on a larger role within the family. In many ways, people spend money on pets the same way they do on their children. It is estimated that $58.51 billion dollars will be spent within the pet industry in 2015, $4.73 billion of which while be for grooming and boarding services.
For people like Monica, operating a doggie daycare is about offering a service that coincides with a passion. Monica grew up on a farm and has always had a special relationship with animals, one that was groomed while participating in outside activities. “Being in 4-H as I grew up helped me learn a lot about animals,” she said. It is that experience that has given her a strong reputation within the community. Ultimately, however, it is her passion for animals that sets her apart. “I like what I do and hope to continue on for many years,” she said. At Doggy Depot, Becky also appreciates what she does and wouldn’t change a thing. “I love interacting with the animals and customers,” she said. “We have some really nice customers.”
More information on Chasing Tails and Doggy Depot can be obtained atwww.chasingtails2.comandwww.doggydepot.comrespectively.