Who will look after my dog when I’m away? What is the best way to pamper my dog? Log on to find the answers. Websites and the social media offer solutions to every query on pet care. “As an online community, we share tips and recommend websites that one can go to for information,” says A. Raghu, who owns a German Shepherd and a Harlequin. While websites such as Waggle specialises in safety and well-being of dogs, especially when the owners have to leave them behind when they travel, there are others such as ‘tails love gifts’ that specialise in gifting. “Owners are aware that the more you pamper your pets, the healthier they become,” says R. Deepak. He has been running the Coimbatore Pet Clinic for over two decades. “We get a number of enquiries online and we are immediately at their doorstep to groom their pets,” he says. A U.S. customer has left behind a Daschund in his care. Deepak says the boarding will continue for another year.
Most websites bank on an all-under-one-roof package and offer many value-added services too. “Boxers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Daschunds… each breed needs individual care and attention,” he adds.
Chochweet, another dog grooming service in the city, updates its facebook page regularly on what’s new and responds promptly to queries. Pet owners have a number of doubts, especially when they bring a puppy home. An instant online reply perks up their day. “A puppy has to be treated like a new born baby,” says Abdul. A. Nasser, partner of Chochweet.
Online tips on how to bathe pets , groom them (trim their nails, clean their teeth, take care of over grown hair and so on), and veterinary information draws more pet owners to connect online. It gives them handy tips - remember never to use nail polish, it’s bad for the dogs!
There are videos too on setting up a doggy spa. You need a table, a tub, a dog brush, a doggy shirt, water, a towel, dog toothbrush and paste, and special doggy shampoo and conditioner. Begin by brushing your dog’s fur out, give him a shower, apply shampoo, conditioner and pat him dry…what better way to give your pooch some serious pampering.
