In New York, pet owners, who are often considered a breed of their own, find themselves strolling to the tune of “Anything we can do, they can do better!” (of course when I say they, I am referring to their four legged friends)

Pet Airways, the first 100% dog friendly airline (sorry fellow fashionistas, you’re not allowed!), which caters to all the elite “pawsengers” who just couldn’t stand the thought of traveling…dare I say…CARGO. Offering an introductory price of $150 each way (pretty much the same cost as cargo travel on most airlines) Pet Airways, will have your pooch flying first class with uber posh amenities.  The journey starts with a Pet Lounge where you drop off your pampered pooch, and continues with potty breaks and a personal pet attendant who checks in on them every 15 minutes of the flight.

While all this sounds right up my fellow New York pet owners ally’s, I can’t help but wonder…Have our friendly skies gone to the dogs?

For more information on travel destinations and fares check out their website or call 1-888-PET-AIRWAYS.
-Lindsey

These days, I think its pretty safe to say that social networking is the new black. Whether you are a member of Myspace, Meetup.com, Linkedin, Facebook or all of the above. (lets not kid there are millions of you out there, myself included, who just cant seem to get enough of these sites!) Feel like your four legged best friend is missing from your network? No problem! Many of these sites have canine specific networking opportunities that give Fido endless possibilities to expand his ever growing buddy list of pooch pals.

One of the most extensive sites, “Dogbook,” was created by the geniuses’ of Facebook and allows your dog to  fill out a detailed profile, connect with old dog park pals and relatives, as well as arrange play dates at one of the many fabulous dog parks throughout the big apple.

Meetup.com is another great site for dog owners to join one of the many local breed centric groups that meet on a regular basis at dog parks throughout the city in all areas of Manhattan. Not seeing a group that suits your dogs needs? No Problem, Meetup.com makes it very easy for you to start your own!

-Lindsey

Although I touched on the poop laws and fines of our great big juicy red apple that most of us call home in last weeks article, I have a sneaking suspicion there are still lots of fellow New York pet owners who have well…decided to turn their head in the other direction when their four legged friend poops.  Out of sight out of mind right?…WRONG!

As a fellow dog parent (of 2 pooches I might add) I find it a tad bit, well, offensive that I am constantly having to dodge pooch piles as I wander from block to block all the while thinking “why is it that I can scoop the poop, yet others can’t?”  Yes, I admit it’s by no means the most pleasant event of my day, however I take pride in helping to keep my block (and my chic new stilettos), poop free and beautiful.

So my fellow dog friendly readers, I say we take action…if you happen to see someone who thinks they can “poop and dash” simply approach them and in a very friendly tone let them know their lack of responsibility stinks! (If you’re feeling generous you can even offer a bag!)

- Lindsey

As we (hopefully) say farewell to the winter weather and welcome the crisp spring sunshine, pooch parks citywide will begin to fill up with all the furry socialites that make up the big apple.  With that said it is very important to have him/her up to date on all their shots and vaccines, as you never know what dogs are carrying a cold and the last thing anyone needs in this economy  is another enormous bill from the vet.  Now I know your thinking that just taking your pooch to the vet to get these shots can often run at least a few hundred dollars, but below I have some great tips on ways to save a few bucks without sacrificing your little New Yorker’s health.

Each month Petco’s around the city offer “vaccination hours” in which you can bring your pooch in and get them up to date on all the necessary vaccines without having to pay the expensive cost of an exam visit.  Administered by licensed vets, you can simply walk in at anytime during the designated hours.

If your looking to get your pup spay or neutered but can’t afford the cost (although the thought of the possible cost of puppies could be even more scary!)  The ASPCA has a great tool on their website which allows you to search through tons of options and locations where you can take fido to get fixed at a lower cost or even free.

After all, It’s like Bob Barker always says  “Help control the pet population, have your pet spayed or neutered”

-Lindsey