Posted by Pets Best on 12/16/2008 in Articles from Newsletters
You might not believe it, but Ralph Lauren wants to take care of your dog. It’s true! He has actually designed a whole line of clothing for pups, guaranteed to keep the well-bred canine comfortable and fashionably well-dressed. And he’s not the only one catering to the four-legged set—these days, a host of designers and high-end retail stores offer luxury items for those cats and dogs who appreciate the finer things in life. Here are some of the gifts that you’ll find on the Christmas wish lists of America’s most pampered pets.
The Ralph Lauren Pup Collection includes a smart-yet-cozy Cashmere Ruffle Dog Sweater priced at $195. The collection also features Lauren’s classic Polo shirt, especially tailored for dogs, as well as rugby shirts, hoodies, and coats; prices range from $32 up to $225.
Nordstrom’s offers an extensive line of pet accessories by the youthful, edgy Juicy Couture label. For dogs, the line includes plush chew toys, feeding bowls, high-fashion collar-and-lead sets and more. Prices for these run from $25 to $75. And for the trendy pet on the go, whether canine or feline, the Juicy Couture Velour Pet Carrier is available for $295.
Harrods in London carries a line of luxury canine grooming products called Sexy Beast; the line includes a signature eau de parfum, specifically formulated for dogs. It is described as “a unisex blend of bergamot and vanilla-infused musk combined with natural patchouli, mandarin and nutmeg oils.” A 3.4-ounce bottle costs about £83 (or $123 American), and custom engraving is available.
A monogrammed, velvet-textured back seat car cover by Eddie Bauer keeps pets comfortable while protecting seats from mud, dirt and pet hair, at a price of $105.50. Other monogrammable items from Eddie Bauer include dog beds and collars that feature the designer’s rugged, outdoorsy style.
From Neiman-Marcus comes the Fleur-de-Lis Pet Day Bed , featuring the elegant look of hand-crafted wrought-iron, with a price tag of $200. A matching feeding station is available for only $100.
Perhaps the ultimate in luxury (and expense) is found in Louis Vuitton’s Sac Baxter GM , one of several pet carriers by the legendary bag maker. It can hold a pet of 44 pounds and features their signature “LV” monogram canvas with natural cowhide trim. At a cost of $1,610, it tops our list of indulgent gifts.
But what do you get for the pet who already has everything? How about a nice vacation? Soon taking reservations to cities across the country, Pet Airways will let your best friend travel in style and comfort. Though the company has not yet posted prices for individual flights, they say that prices will start as low as $150.
Or how about the sheer luxury of a spa day? Your pet may enjoy a day of pampering as much as you would. These days, many doggy daycares offer services including grooming, professional massage, spas, and more. Check the Yellow Pages or the Internet for a good daycare/day spa for pets near you.
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The 3 Most Popular (and Affordable) Pet Gifts
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a bit more frugal this Christmas, FetchDog.com has a few great suggestions. Their Mud Magnet Gloves , for example, are made from super-absorbent microfiber to make quick work of wiping muddy, dirty paws and cost just $19 a pair. Or how about the Holiday Hounds Collar , a rugged webbed-nylon dog collar with a choice of fun holiday-themed patterns for $19 each? Then again, there’s the Puppermint Chew —made of peppermint-infused rubber, this tasty toy will freshen the breath of the most active chewers. And at $12 apiece, you can afford to buy one for every dog on your list.
