Dog Hotels Pamper Pets

Harvey the dog sits in the Lotus Sanctuary Spa at PawPaws Urban Retreat, a newly opened hotel for dogs, at Waterloo on January 27, 2009 in Sydney, Australia. The AUD3.2 million business is Australia's first, occupying 3 floors including a rooftop playground and spa with staff including a Concierge,Chauffeur and Nannies as well as reception, spa and salon personnel. Australia has one of the highest pet ownership levels in the world, with around 40% of households including at least one dog, an estimated 3.75 millions dogs in Australia. Petcare is valued at circa AUD4.62 billion per year, of which 59% is spent on dogs. (Getty Images)more pics »Hotels have gone to the dogs, literally. Gone are the days when your only option was to drop your dog off at a kennel when you went on vacation. Now retreat style pet hotels are popping up everywhere, ensuring that your four-legged friend will have a stress free stay while you're gone.

With amenities like cushy beds, comfy couches for lounging, a playground and even a spa (massages included) who wouldn't want to stay in a pet hotel? Honestly, is it wrong that I'm jealous? These dogs get better service than I do on vacation.

PawPaws Urban Retreat recently opened in Sydney, Australia and judging by the photos, their pet guests are more than satisfied.


Although I'm not sure the oversized tubs or immaculate design are necessary (Do these dogs even notice the detail?), this spa is amazing. Mud bath anyone?



Most pet owners don't even let their dogs on the couch, but at PawPaws it's all about comfort. It's hard to tell from their totally stoic expressions, but Bossa Nova and Misha seem to be enjoying the lavish furnishings.



Caught off guard, Bossa Nova gets comfortable in the retreat's Cupcake Nursery. Although she can't tell us what she's thinking, we can only assume it's something along the lines of: "What are you looking at? Don't judge me because I love pastels and polka dots."



PawPaws has a large outdoor play area, which would excite most dogs. Still, the dog on the left seems pretty pissed off. I think he's even growling. He must have found out the grassy hillside was just a wall mural.

More Photos:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•