Most people treat their dogs like members of the family. Gone are the days of tying up the family pet in a drafty doghouse or the yard. Today, he gets his own plush bed right in front of the fire or at the foot of his parents’ bed.

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), pets in the U.S. are enjoying more attention and more material wealth than ever before. However, pet products and other niceties are only part of the story. Here’s a look at some pet trends and establishments in the Fort Collins area.

Pet Pampering – Many pet parents allow their four-leggedloved onesto sleep in bed with them, or in an equally comfortable retreat. Posh blankets and pet beds are what these friends need.Other ownerscelebrate their pets’ birthdays. You can buy pet invitations, party-favors, cakesand greatgifts to mark their years.

Dressing up pets, particularly small dog breeds like Malteses, Yorkshire terriers, and Chihuahuas, is all the rage — especially among celebrities. From Halloween costumes to designer duds, these pets sometimes have more elaborate wardrobes than some people. Just think of TinkerBell, Paris Hilton’s pampered pup.

And don’t forget about good food and grooming.Pets are enjoying nutritious, organic meals, fresh baked treats and lots of style. Some popular retailers in Fort Collins include Poudre Pet and Feed Supply or Wagz Pet Bowtique and Barkery.

Traveling- If enjoying your pet at home is not sufficient, a greater number of establishments are becoming dog-friendly. Travel guides and Web sites offer listings of U.S. and Canadian restaurants, stores and hotels that welcome friends of the four-legged variety. Now your pet can also enjoy some time away from home.For more information check outyourFort Collins Dog FriendlyGuide.

If you are not inclined or cannot take your beloved with you, you can board them at some posh establishments while you are away.Camp Bow Wow and the Lazy Dog Ranch are great local choices to take care of your pet while you are away.

Parade Your Pal – Each May the Loveland Lion Clubs hosts a popular Pet and Doll Parade that spotlights some pretty powerful and lovable area pets. For the more active pet enthusiasts, they can participate in the Larimer Humane Society’s annual Fire Hydrant 5k walk /run fundraiser with hundreds of other local owners and pets.

On a daily basis, humans proudly parade their pets around the Promenade Shops at Centerra. If you are looking for other pet-friendly establishments, again you can check out your City Guide. Of course, well behaved friends are preferred. So, visit Best Paws Forward if you need a little help whipping your dog into shape prior to introducing him to the public.

Pets arepart of the family now and it’s important to treat them as such.

For additional pet shopping information you can visit a local online shopping guide or do an online search for any of these great Fort Collins businesses.

Suzanna A. Woods is a professional writer in Northern Colorado who enjoys spending time with her family and the outdoors.

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