Pet massages and pawdicures

It’s official: Pets have never had it so good.

They are no longer living outside in the doghouse, guarding a junkyard, or eating leftover dinner scraps. They are getting their nails done, backs massaged, and receiving spiritual healing from reiki specialists. Times sure have changed.

The idea of pet pampering is relatively new to society. As the trend grows in popularity, so does the concept of . Animals are no longer treated as family pets but family members – .

According to , Vancouver is the second best dog-friendly vacation spot in North America (Boston is number one).  No wonder the pet pampering business is thriving in this city.

Vancouver’s pet spas offer much more than a traditional cut and wash. Businesses such as Pawsh, The Pet Shop Boys, Mestiso’s Pet Spa and Power Paws bring the meaning of pet luxury to a whole new level. The treatments for pets include:

• Hydrotherapy bath (very close to a Jacuzzi)
• Organic ear wash
• Organic shampoo and condition
• Massage for stress relief, anxiety, or recovery of injury
• Aromatherapy
• Chiropractor
• Reflexology
• Pawdicure – including filing, nail paw-lish, and paw massage

However, not all people believe in the power of pet pampering.

“People are starting to replace children with pets,” said dog owner Peter Culley. “The industry is preying on the mothering instincts of people who can’t have kids.”

“I think a dog is just a dog.”