Animal Fair magazine, the nation’s first lifestyle magazine for animal lovers, is proud to announce the recipients of our Third Annual Cesar© Five Dog Bone Awards for their excellence in pet-friendly services! Our readers have surveyed and barked out! We are pleased to report and award the top-level pet companies that cater to pampering pets. The recipients are recognized for their exceptional hospitality and services, ambiance, cheerful atmosphere and superb cleanliness. Each category winner was awarded for its travel friendliness and overall sense of grooming and style. The categories are: Pet-Friendly Airline, Automobile, Destination, Hotel, Product, Resort and Shelter.
It’s a ‘dog-eat-dog’ world out there and Animal Fair has very specific guidelines for determining our annual Cesar© Five Dog Bone Awards. The pet-friendly companies that qualify for consideration are based on an Animal Fair Readership Survey. The final decisions for each category are made by a group of pet-related experts who visit and inspect the companies, products and facilities in each nominated category.
Continental airlines
Congratulations to Continental Airlines for being named by Animal Fair readers as the most pet-friendly airline and winning the 2007 Cesar© Five Dog Bone Award. Continental’s new PetSafe program allows animals too large to travel in the cabin to travel as cargo, instead of baggage. The new program has many features designed to ensure a pet’s comfort and safety (and to alleviate the worries of their parents). Animals are carried to planes in climate controlled Paw Vans and are the last on and the first off of the planes. Weather conditions are monitored continually and they have a 24-hour live animal desk. Anxious parents can also track their pet’s trip online via the airline’s website. Small dogs, cats, pet rabbits and birds can still travel in the cabin with their parents. Pets must be carried in an approved in-cabin kennel. The pet must be able to move comfortably in the kennel (stand up and turn around). The kennel must fit completely under the seat forward of the customer. Maximum dimensions are: 22” L x 14” W x 9” H (56 cm L x 36 cm W x 23 cm H). Continental charges $95 each way for in-cabin travel. In the PetSafe program, domestic rates begin at $119 for an animal less than 10 pounds and go up to $459 for very large pets. Internationally, the rates are a bit higher. To send a 50-pound dog from the US to London will cost about $1500. The PetSafe program is not limited to dogs and cats. According to John Dorsch who works at the program’s center in Houston, “I’ve seen pictures of bears and tigers—all kinds of animals. We travel hundreds, if not thousands of animals per day and customers really seem to like the program.” They sure do, and that’s why Animal Fair is proud to give Continental the 2007 Cesar© Five Dog Bone Award. For more information visit: www.continental.com.
PET-FRIENDLY Product
Kiehl’s
If you have a dog with skin or coat problems, or simply enjoy pampering your pooch, Kiehl’s has the answer. Although they specialize in high-quality hair and body care products for people, they also have a line of products for dogs. Animal Fair readers voted, and the 2007 Cesar© Five Dog Bone Award for the best pet-friendly product goes to Kiehl’s pet line. “Our customers care as much about the quality of the products that they use on their dogs as they do for their own skin and hair,” says Cammie Cannella, Vice President of Global Education for Kiehl’s. “In fact, we have been receiving requests from our customers to make products specifically for dogs for many years. With this line, customers can now enjoy using safe, gentle products for their dogs with the same high quality naturally-derived ingredients that they have come to expect from all their Kiehl’s products.” For the pups, they offer shampoo, conditioner, and a cleaning/deodorizing spray. Best of all, none of their products are tested on animals. Animal Fair readers love Kiehl’s! For more information visit: www.kiehls.com.
PET-FRIENDLY Automobile
Saturn Vue Green Line
Big enough to accommodate kids, cargo or large pups, GM’s 2007 Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid is the most pet-friendly automobile of the year! According to Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak, “The versatility of the Saturn Vue Green Line makes it easy to transport pets in a fuel efficient and safe environment. The Vue Green Line is the lowest-priced hybrid SUV on the market that proves you can go green without going broke.” The Vue Green Line has an EPA fuel economy rating of 32mpg on the highway. It comes with two settings of climate control: “economy mode” limits the effect of air conditioning, thus saving energy, while the normal mode allows for optimum cooling. This Vue also offers several add-on features such as an automatic sunroof, a variety of roof racks, and attachments and cargo boxes to accommodate all of your toys. Animal Fair readers are excited about GM’s economically friendly approach. For more information visit:
www.saturn.com/saturn/vehicles/vue/greenline.jsp.
PET-FRIENDLY Shelter
Much Love Animal Rescue
If you are looking to adopt or rescue a pet, donate money or time to a pet friendly cause, look no further than Much Love Animal Rescue. The shelter is a 100 percent non-profit, completely volunteer-run, and a no-kill organization. Located in Los Angeles, the rescue center has the support of a large roster of celebrities. Advocate and animal lover Tori Spelling adopted two of her dogs from the organization and lends her time to help raise money and awareness about the shelter. Much Love rescues stray animals from other shelters often moments before they are about to be euthanized. They also take in abandoned, abused or neglected animals from the streets and provide them with medical care. Since its conception seven years ago, Much Love has placed more than 2,000 animals in caring homes. In addition, the organization has implemented a pet education program which teaches children how to be responsible pet owners. Much Love also puts on exciting events throughout the year to raise funds and promote the shelter. They have an annual Bow Wow Ween Halloween party, as well as a Midsummer Dog’s Dream. With all the hard work, love and care that this shelter provides to animals, it’s no wonder our readers chose Much Love to receive the 2007 Cesar© Five Dog Bone Award. For more information visit: www.muchlove.org.
PET-FRIENDLY Destination
Las Vegas, Nevada
Sin City spent the last decade firmly establishing that it is not only about, well, sin. The city is now known as a family-friendly town, and that of course extends to all members of the family – even the furry ones. And with many attractions now geared toward the kiddies, there are bound to be lots of animals popping up.
Many of the city’s most fabulous hotels are eager to accept not only you and your credit cards, but also your pet.
The historic Plaza Hotel was founded way back in 1882. Since that time, it has hosted notorious Old West characters, silent film stars, and political organizers. It now claims to be the “most pet-friendly hotel in Las Vegas.” Judy Finley, the Plaza’s marketing director explains, “At one time, we were the only hotel in town that allowed pets. We’ve always been open to pets, all kinds and sizes and shapes. No horses. Well, one time someone did ride a horse in the lobby, but that wasn’t exactly planned …” For more information visit: plazahotelcasino.com.
The Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort has a program called Loews Loves Pets. VIPs (Very Important Pets) are promised “a home away from home at Loews,” enjoying special treatment and privileges such as gourmet room service, dog walking services and even specialized bedding! For more information visit: www.loewshotels.com.
Both the Ritz-Carlton and the Four Seasons Las Vegas welcome animals less than 25 lbs. and offer luxury accommodations. The Ritz-Carlton has created a resort they call Lake Las Vegas, which is located 17 miles from the strip for those who crave a more relaxing experience. It features a world-class spa, golf course, and many other amenities. The Four Seasons is closer to the action, but also promises an oasis away from the excitement. For more information visit: www.ritzcarlton.com.
Another option in accommodations for your furry friend is the America Dog and Cat Hotel. “[The hotel],” owner Christopher Easley explains, “is like the Bellagio for pets.” Which is why this resort is a perfect alternative when your pet can’t be with you. Easley explains the resort is a new state-of-the-art facility with private luxurious suites. It is beautifully decorated and equipped with televisions in each suite that play doggie cartoons. Each guest is brushed daily and can play in an indoor grass courtyard. For more information visit: www.doghotel.net.
Of course, the main attractions in Vegas are the casinos and you’ll surely get your fill of Texas Hold’Em, Roulette and slot machine action. But when you feel the need for something warmer and fuzzier, check out Gregory Popovich’s Comedy Pet Theatre. Born in Russia to parents who were circus performers, Popovich has toured the world with his fifteen cats and ten dogs, all of which he rescued from animal shelters. “In Russia, animal shelters like the ones here in the U.S. don’t exist. While I was visiting the shelters, I was sad to see so many dogs and cats without homes. It motivated me even more to create my animal show,” says Popovich. Showtimes are Saturday through Thursday at 3:30 at the Aladdin Resort and Casino. Tickets are available through their website. For more information visit: www.vegas.com.
Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat is located at the world-famous Mirage Las Vegas and is a truly magical place. Here you can discover the tigers, striped lions, and the Asian elephant that appear – and disappear – onstage. The Garden is open daily and admission is $15.00. For more information visit: www.miragehabitat.com.
Las Vegas is also covered in parks and many have special facilities for dogs. Dog Fancier’s Park located 5800 E. Flamingo Road is a twelve-acre park that is used for dog shows and training and has a separate dog run area. Groups often reserve the park for dog shows and related activities. For information on upcoming events, call the 24-hour hotline at: 702.567.1227. For more information on Clark County or other locations visit: www.co.clark.nv.us/parks/Dog_Parks.htm.
Next, treat your best four-legged friend to a shopping spree at the brand new Lush Puppy boutique located in Mandalay Place at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino. This shop is heaven for even the most posh of puppies (and their generous owners). It offers everything from canine couture to trendy accessories for your pampered pooch. This includes pieces from the hottest designers including Juicy Couture, Von Dutch, Donald Pliner and Lancel. For more information visit: www.lushpuppyonline.com.
You simply can’t slip out of Las Vegas without setting up an appointment with Chi-Chi Couture, the ultimate in pet luxury. Either visit their secluded mountain location or arrange for a personal session at your hotel. Their pet day spa includes fruit and beverages for the parents and doggie treats for the pups. The day also includes private fittings of any of Chi-Chi Couture’s products, a special chemical-free pool for the pups to take a dip in and even a private jeweler who can custom make anything you desire. For more information visit: www.chi-chicouture.com
With all of this, and so much more, it’s no wonder Animal Fair readers named Las Vegas the most pet-friendly city of 2007. Animals all over the country are nudging their owners to take them – my puppy keeps hinting that he wants to put $100 on a long-shot! Soon, puppy, soon … Oh, who am I kidding? We’re on our way!
Loews Hotel Vogue
Animal Fair’s readers have ventured north of the border this year to pick Montreal’s Loews Hotel Vogue as our winner for the pet-friendliest hotel! Congratulations to this cat and canine catering international hotel that proudly proclaims: Loews Aime Les Animaux – Loews Loves Pets!
As soon as pets check-in at the Loews Hotel Vogue, they are pampered with a welcoming VIP (Very Important Pets) guest pack of goodies, including animal snacks, dog perfume, etc. Guest pet owners are given beneficial pet information such as a surrounding area map for dogs, and a list of vets, pet shops and other handy resources. The helpful concierge service will happily arrange for experienced dog sitters and walkers. Other perks for pets include rooms on a reserved VIP designated floor that provides special beds for pets, treats, water bowls and licensed veterinarians room service dishes safe for dogs and cats.
When Animal Fair asked Maxime Lamoureux, Guest Services Manager at Loews Hotel Vogue what makes his pet-friendly hotel special for animals, he replied, “I can honestly tell you that having your pet stay at the Loews Hotel Vogue is an everyday concern for the entire staff here. From the daily morning meeting in which I share the names of all pets and owners to the Executive Committee, everyone is made aware of the presence of the animal guest. The preparation done in the room and especially the welcoming of the pet to the hotel are the most significant gestures we do with ‘dog and cat stays.’ Everyone working at the hotel greets the pet in front of the guest to welcome them and surprise them when recognizing the animal’s name. During their stay, everyone makes sure that our guests and their pet(s) are well taken care of and comfortable.”
Montreal is a vibrant, charming, and inviting city with a historic European background and is guaranteed to make you and your pet feel at home. The Loews Hotel Vogue provides the perfect complimentary animal-friendly place to stay! Kudos to the recipient of the 2007 Cesar© Five Dog Bone Award winner for pet-friendliest hotel: Loews Hotel Vogue!
For more information visit: www.loewshotels.com.
Much Love Animal Rescue
Hollywood loves animals and unanimously voted for Much Love Animal Rescue as the recipient of the 2007 Cesar© Five Dog Bone Award for Best Shelter. Much Love Animal Rescue is a 100 percent non-profit, completely volunteer-run, no-kill organization. Located in Los Angeles, it boasts a large roster of celebrity supporters, such as Drew Barrymore, Tori Spelling, and Jason Priestly, who have helped this group of dedicated animal lovers place more than 2,000 animals in good homes since they began just seven years ago.
“Volunteers are key for any non-profit organization, and MLAR has been lucky enough to attract some incredible ones,” explains Helen Storey, one of MLAR’s most dedicated volunteers. “We are also fortunate to be in LA and have a great deal of support from the entertainment industry – animal-loving celebrities definitely help with fundraising.”
Tori Spelling recently filmed a PSA for the organization and had this to say: “I give a lot of my time to Much Love and even adopted [my dogs] Chiquita and Ferris through them.”
Much Love rescues stray animals from other shelters often moments before they are about to be euthanized. They also take in abandoned, abused or neglected animals from the streets. The animals are provided with the medical care, including spaying, neutering and microchipping, and are placed in foster care while loving homes are secured for them. Much Love is also committed to pet education. “This year we have started to implement educational programs with children, to teach them how to be responsible pet owners,” said Heidi Larsen, another MLAR volunteer.
As serious as their work is, Much Love is an active organization that puts on exciting events throughout the year. In addition to their annual Bow Wow Ween Halloween party, last year they also celebrated a Midsummer Dog’s Dream at the Malibu estate of John Paul & Eloise DeJoria and, in the spring, launched the Old Navy Mascot search.
“Events are a way for us to raise funds and promote the cause. We usually have two big ones every year. At last year’s summer gala, we staged a live auction for the first time. Items included a private island trip to Tahiti, a Ford Hybrid Escape, and a guitar signed by Sheryl Crow!” said Helen Story. “We raised more money than we ever had before.” MLAR is raising funds to acquire their own facility.
Animal Fair is proud to give Much Love Animal Rescue the 2007 Cesar© Five Dog Bone Award for Best Shelter.
For more information visit: www.muchlove.org.
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