Pet Services in Bay Point

With 15,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor play space, your mutt will be able to run in circles and bark at the invisible aliens free of guilt or any sense of propriety (daycare starts at $35 a day). Dogs are segregated by size, age, and temperament in play areas, so two-pound Chaingun won't be able to pick on the bigger dogs like he always does. When night falls, fidos enjoy blissful dreams of fat, slow rabbits in either a plush private space or a group sleeping room for those who prefer the stinky camaraderie of the pack (accommodations starting at $50 a night for junior suite). There's even a lap pool so your scruffy buddy can finally nail the backstroke ($30 a session). Cross the rubicon into pet obsession by springing for with an aromatherapy bath (starting at $35 for pooches less than 30 pounds) or a pawdicure ($20). Though the hotel is manned 24/7 by chronic belly-rub-giver-outers, you can always check in on your four-legged life partner via webcam.

Young Yorkies inevitably become runaway runway models after wrapping their canine curves in boutique charm from Touleh. Prep a pug for fashion combat with a green camo jacket ($18), or give Lassie something to brag about besides her subterranean rescue skills with a happy-birthday-to-me dress ($54). Likewise, make every day a celebration with a City Girl pet carrier ($105). Edible accessories such as dog treats ($6–$12) and organic catnip leaf (starting at $3) are also available. Take your Groupon out for a walk around the boutique and give your pet a thrill comparable to chasing cars, tails, and ever-elusive fire hydrants.

Aiming to keep the friendship between man and man’s best friend as fresh as possible, SplashHound is home to an easy and fun dog-washing system that helps your favorite canine companion stay clean without splashing your home bathroom in eau de dirt. With the self-serve dog wash (a $12–$15 value), owners don’t need appointments to completely cleanse their dirty pooch, and the only clock they’ll be racing is a broken one. Standing in a well-spaced and waist-high line, six large metal washtubs allow walk-in entry for the biggest dogs while leaving plenty of room for complicated pre-bath exercise routines. After donning a waterproof apron, parents purge impurities from their animal children with SplashHound’s special bathing wand, which conquers the thickest of coats with cleansing hypo-aloe and hypo-watermelon shampoos while also administering a satisfying massage to worn-out cat-catching muscles. After the bath, dogs are blow-dried and pampered at the grooming station.

As founder of Four Star Farm, Natalie Rooney Pitts instills proper horsemanship techniques in each rider, whether they’re saddling up for simple enjoyment or dreaming of one day prancing onto the Olympic podium. Natalie and her team of trainers introduce new equestrians to the sport via lessons that allow students of all ages and experience levels to take the reins without having to own their own enchanted rocking horse. Atop one of the farm’s fully trained mounts, pupils learn the techniques of English-style riding—including eventing, dressage, and show jumping—while building self-confidence and a mutual respect among man, animal, and belt buckle. The ranch also offers boarding and training services, and youngsters can take part in camps and club events offered throughout the year.

"I like to say that I traded four wheels for four paws," says Pamela, who left behind a career in the auto industry to found Launder Dog. She made the decision after her german shepherd developed health problems and she found a vitamin regimen that successfully treated the dog's condition. Focusing on healthy and natural products, Pamela assembled a supply of specialty foods and medications for cats and dogs to fill her new shop.

The addition of self-service washtubs has helped the pet haven build a loyal cast of regulars since its founding in 1996. "We are like Cheers, but for cats and dogs," Pamela says. Owners come in to socialize, chat with staff members about proper pet care, and exchange fashion tips with the shop's resident cat, Ben. His eyes cruise lazily across the shop as Pamela and her team stay close by to assist patrons as they check out supplies ranging from colorful doggie bags to canine arthritis medication. Staff can also custom-order products and rare colognes that smell like the mailman.

The equestrian trainers at Foxtail Farms conduct horseback-riding lessons for riders seeking leisure time atop a steed and for those considering competition. Amid a rural landscape of patchwork crop fields and untamed plains, horses lope, gallop, leap, and waffle on which shoes to wear that day as instructors lead intimate training sessions. Skilled in teaching the ins and out of hunter, jumper, and equitation riding, instructors help to foster horsemanship skills while preparing riders for many situations, including the show ring. Believing that success can only be found when both rider and horse have created a special bond, the trainers also work to create an atmosphere in which that bond can be nurtured and tempered.