Pet Services in Tampa

Pet Safari is a one-stop shop for animal lovers. In addition to matching patrons with new companions in the form of puppies, birds, reptiles, exotic rodents, and kittens, the haven helps humans to stock up on essential pet sundries and accessories, from the American-made Grandma Mae's natural dog food to translators that deduce the family cat's exact level of disdain for humanity.

The store also runs as an educational endeavor with its Adventure Outpost, which educates the public on exotic rainforest creatures such as white-tufted marmosets and agouti pacas.:m]]

A mechanic opens the hood of a car, inspects vital fluid levels, and carefully removes a four-week old kitten. Now known as Mercedes—named after her former automotive residence—she is a permanent resident of South Tampa Puppy Palace. Pet owners, dogs, and cats may spot 2-year-old Mercedes wandering throughout parts of the large facility, whose webcam-equipped boarding suites (for cats and dogs), dog runs, and play yards have the capacity for more than 150 animals. The facility's custom-built saltwater pool gives pups a 20'x30' tub to splash around in without their owners worrying about chlorine's potentially harmful effects on coats, skin, and tails' wagging patterns. The play yards also feature canopies under which dogs can cool off with fans and misters.

Led by manager Tiffanie Ivins, a former veterinary technician, South Tampa Puppy Palace's personnel include a retired veterinarian and a handful of experienced groomers. All the staffers use their extensive training in canine CPR and interpreting body language to carefully supervise dogs' playtime and prevent unwanted ear nibbling. In an effort to help dogs without permanent homes, South Tampa Puppy Palace also assists three area rescue groups by offering foster care to pups still waiting to find loving families.

At Myakka River Ranch, a herd of majestic horses lets visitors feel the liberating rush of flying through the grass atop a sturdy saddle. Among the stable's friendly inhabitants, an American Saddlebred performs tricks, an American Paint Horse frolics in the ranch's streams, and an Akhal-Teke mare—descended from the strong, golden horses bred in Persia more than 3,000 years ago—gallops in the outdoor arena. Along with lessons that impart the basics of English-style riding, Myakka's staff leads trail rides amid the scenic landscape, where majestic oak trees and open fields distract the horses from exploring the local sugar-cube quarry.

DK Grooming cleanses dirty dogs of all sizes with thorough grooming services. Bring in your pup and a specialist can turn musty, tangled hair into a smooth, dapper fur coat with a bath and brushing. They can also clear up cruddy ears and gently snip down nails that have grown large enough to act as stilts.

This fur-friendly retreat rejects the image of endless rows of cramped cages that traditional animal boarding usually conjures. Upon entering their pet resort, clients find a 1/2 acre of land, 5,000 square feet of indoor play areas, and spacious doggie suites stocked with toys and soft bedding under skylights. Before each visit begins, canine guests undergo a temperament assessment where caretakers study their play styles, food or toy aggressions, and any fear toward new people in order to gauge their unique personalities. Pooches then join up with peers of a similar size and demeanor in one of eight separate play areas featuring wading pools, digging pits, and a fully stocked shoe store. Dogs looking for some down time can recline on comfy beds and couches while enjoying their regular eating schedules courtesy of a 24 hour staff.

The thoughtful dog-whisperers will also board pets from the same household in a family suite and can administer any medications as directed by the client. Grooming services and photo sessions ensure four-legged friends stay front-page ready. Downtown Doggie Center also specializes in finding homes for orphaned pups with their adoption services.