Going the Extra Mile to Keep Your Pets Fit -- and Reduce Your Own Stress

by Annette Pinder

I have to admit, I was somewhat reluctant to try Western New York's newest pet facility even though it was less than a mile from my house. But it had everything I could possibly need -- daycare, grooming, boarding for both my cat and my dog, and a canine fitness center. Still, I wasn't quite sure. Why? It was called a pet resort -- a pet spa, in fact, and I thought, "We're talking about cats and dogs here, not people. I don't even treat myself to a spa. Why would I take Yoshi to a resort? I have my reputation to think of, and people will probably think I'm crazy. Besides, I can't afford it. 

The truth is I'm a busy person, and occasionally need to rely on someone else to care for my pets. (I have a cat and a dog, but as most of you know, dogs require more work.) Fortunate for me, I'm not closed-minded, so I decided to walk through the door and check out Cara Mia Pet Resort. After all, I have a dog who hates being left alone, has been known to escape from his crate, raid the garbage can, and destroy things if he gets too lonely. People who meet my dog inevitably say, "No way, not Yoshi -- he's an angel!" Like children, our most cherished pets somehow find a way to be on their best behavior when they are in other people's company.

So what did I learn about Western New York's only pet resort? Here goes, in order of importance:

1. It's not more expensive!

2. It's open everyday!

3. Your dog can be picked up and dropped off in the Cara Mia pet limo at just about any hour (as was necessary for me recently due to a medical procedure).

4. Your dog gets to engage in healthy activities, like swimming and walking on a treadmill -- great for mental stimulation and exercise.

5. Need to be at the airport at 6am and can't get home till midnight? No problem! Need to drop your dog off for a couple of hours, and not a half or full day? No problem there either. Service is geared to your unique needs.

6. Cara Mia personnel actually have fun with your pet and pets sense that. My dog races out of the car to get inside and doesn't seem to want to come home. Fortunately I don't get jealous.

7. Oh, and did I forget to mention? It's not more expensive!

So what's my advice. Try Cara Mia, even if you're a bit embarrassed about too extravagant with your pet because the extravagance won't hurt your pocket but will make for a healthier, happier pet and a less stressful you. Your pet might even learn to behave a bit better too, in the process. So call for information and a free tour. That doesn't cost anything either.

Cara Mia Pet Resort is located at 6429 Transit Road, East Amherst NY 14052, 716-568-2272, www.caramiapetresort.com.