The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated”.
– Mahatma Gandhi
According to the American Pet Products Association, about 87 million American families lived with a pet in 2024. That’s a lot of woofs, meows, and chirps! Whether furry, feathered, or scaly, there’s no doubt that our pets become family. And, as a beloved family member, we want to take care of Fido’s every need. From special foods to veterinary care, a pet’s life needs to be just “pawfect!” So, grab a leash and a pooper scooper bag as we explore local pet pampering options.
Dog Walker/Pet Hotels
As much as we love our pets, there are times when your animal baby will need to stay behind. Your options include having a pet sitter come to your house or boarding elsewhere. Your decision is a personal one depending on how comfortable your pet will be while your away.
Pet Sitters International reported a whopping 12 million pet-sitting gigs in 2021 - walking during the day while you’re at work or on an extended vacation. Bringing a pet sitter to your house may reduce stress for both you and your pet. Beth Kligerman, area pet walker and sitter, loves bonding with different dogs while staying active and outdoors on a daily basis. Kligerman emphasizes the importance of having a pet sitter regardless of the time away, “Most importantly, it’s the convenience of your pets staying in their environment and feeling comfortable. I've done in-home pet sitting for as little as one night and my longest stay was in someone’s home for two weeks.”
If boarding outside of your home works better for you, several local veterinary offices offer boarding options including Shore Veterinarians in Egg Harbor Township. In addition to caring for your pet, a boarding facility connected with veterinarians ensures your pet’s health and well-being – especially if you have an older pet or one with medical issues.
If you think your pet would prefer to lounge in a non-vet related environment, the Atlantic City Pet Hotel & Grooming offers your pet his or her own vacay options including a full-service salon for cats and dogs. In addition, pets get supervised walks four times a day, private sleep areas, playtime, and more. To ease your mind, feel free to call in and “talk” to your pet every day - whatever it takes to make sure you and your pet are content.
In Egg Harbor City, the All-Star Pet Resort prides itself in delivering “top-of-the-line pet care.” The facility offers a spacious dog park and “luxury” pet boarding. Each of the kennels is controlled with raised kennel decks. In addition, pets vacationing in camera-access suites allow you to check in via webcam anytime.
Pet Treats
Whether candy or a scoop of ice cream, everyone enjoys a treat - including your pets. From prepackaged chunks of delicious beef bites to chewy rawhide, your four-legged friends always appreciate a treat. In Ventnor, the Doggie Beach Ice Cream Bar & Boutique is a mecca for dog happiness. Owner Samantha Clearfield knows her products produce plenty of tail wagging. According to Clearfield, “The products in my store make a dog's dream come true…we offer something for every kind of dog. Some of our treats are at dog level on purpose so they can take in the smells and pick out what they like!”
Some of the more popular picks include Himalayan Chews and Saint Rocco's dog treats - salmon or cheeseburger. Other tasty options that no dog can resist are the doggie ice cream flavors ranging from Bacon Mix to Peanut Butter. The boutique is paw licking good and a perfect place for your dog’s birthday party or for photo ops.
In Ocean City, OC Treats truly has something for everyone offering specialty items for “paws and peeps!” Care packages for pets, people, or a combination offer treats galore. For example, the combo basket comes with a container of Johnson’s Popcorn for the two-legged and beef chewies for the four-legged.
If your pet likes to shop, head over to Doggie Style Pets in Somers Point. You and your pet are encouraged to come in and enjoy a free treat. Purchases are not required, but who can resist all the pet treats available for dogs and cats – from specialty foods to leashes and cat toys? In addition, Doggie Style Pets partners with ACCT Philly, the region's only open-intake animal shelter. Whenever you visit the store, make sure you visit the rescue dogs that are available that day for adoption and forever love.
