National Pet Day is April 11, so it’s the perfect time to show your pets how much you appreciate them. We’ve got a few ideas on how you can spoil them:
1. Pamper them at a local pet spa.
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Marcia Reed of Gallery 37 in Milford, and Misako. // |
New Castle County
Dogtopia | The modern spa facilities are designed to cater to the comfort of your pet. With different options and spa packages, your furry friend is guaranteed to walk out squeaky clean. | 2101-A Concord Pike, Wilmington 414-0561; 319 New Road, Elsmere, 414-0556
The Dirty Dog | Give your dog the ultimate spa experience. Oatmeal, hypoallergenic and medicated baths are available. | 11D Liberty Plaza, Newark, 738-6399
Paws and People TOO! | Dogs enjoy an open floor plan and cage-free grooming. | 4390 Summit Bridge Road, Middletown, 376-8234
Kent County
Scruffy to Fluffy | Scruffy to Fluffy specializes in dog and cat grooming. The self-service dog wash is a great amenity. | 17 Village Square, Smyrna, 653-7297
The Bath House | Spoil your dog with luxurious bath options. | 49 Brenda Lane, Suite E, Camden, 734-9119
Bow Wow Petique | This dog-grooming parlor and pet shop offers a cage-free option, so dogs can run around rather than being stuck in a kennel. | 2039 S. DuPont Hwy., Dover, 697-8445
Sussex County
Sandy Paws Pet Spa | This small grooming shop is owned and operated by Denise Irwin. She offers different spa packages and therapeutic mud baths for small and medium dogs. | 18594 Ravens Way, Lewes, 684-8576
A Comfy Pet Grooming Salon | Three convenient locations offer both grooming and salon treatment for your pets. | Millsboro, Milton and Georgetown, 945-4645
Fur Baby Boutique | Treat your dog to a nail trim, blow dry and a blueberry facial. | 204 NE Front St., Milford, 725-5078
Claire’s Pet Salon | Grooming is available for dogs, cats and even rabbits. | 29920 John J. Williams Hwy., Millsboro, 934-5010
2. Go for a dip at the beach.
- At Bethany Beach, pets are welcomed until May 15.
- At Dewey Beach, there are no time restrictions for pets from September to mid-May. In summer months, pets are welcome after 5:30 p.m. and before 9:30 a.m. Canines must be licensed (prices range from $5–$35).
- After May 1 at Delaware Seashore State Park, dogs will no longer be allowed on sunbathing or swimming beaches. They are allowed on non-guarded beaches year-round.
- At Fenwick Island State Park, dogs are allowed on surf fishing beaches year-round (not swimming beaches).
- In Lewes, dogs are allowed on the beach year-round; however, during summer months they are only allowed on the beach after 6:30 p.m. and before 8:30 a.m.
3. Stock up on catnip.
Catnip is an herb known for its euphoric effect on cats. According to the ASPCA, the active ingredient in catnip is a substance called nepetalactone, which mimics feline pheromones and causes a euphoric reaction. (In moderation, catnip is harmless to your cat. But be careful—too much fresh catnip can cause cats to vomit or have diarrhea.)
4. Head out for a run at your pup’s favorite dog park.
New Castle County
- Elsmere Dog Park | 400 Baltimore Ave., Elsmere
- Glasgow Park | 2199 Pulaski Hwy., Newark
- Talley Day Park | 1308 Foulk Road, Wilmington
- Carousel Park | 3700 Limestone Road, Wilmington
Kent County
- Tidbury Park | 2233 S. State St., Dover
- Big Oak Park | 417 Big Oak Road, Smyrna
- Brecknock County Park | 80 Old Camden Road, Camden
Sussex County
- Lewes Unleashed Dog Park | 1 Park Road, Lewes
- Fenwick Island State Park | Route 1-N, Fenwick Island
- Trap Pond State Park | 33587 Baldcypress Lane, Laurel
5. Order a friendship collar.
Get your pet a cool new collar, and yourself a matching bracelet! Check out FriendshipCollar—there are plenty of stylish colors, patterns and charms.
