WHO: Robert Perras and a bevy of free-wheelin’ fidos.
WHAT: The Wagging Tail doggy daycare centre in the Beaches.
THE STORY: After successfully renovating the inside of The Wagging Tail, Perras decided it was time to redecorate the backyard space. “The only problem was, I’d run out of money.” Enter the team from HGTV design show Green Force, who created a doggie jungle gym equipped with ramps, tunnels and trample-friendly plants. The space also features safety items, like durable fences to prevent dogs running out onto busy Kingston Road and cedar chips that repel fleas and ticks. Large shade sails and a bubbling water feature provide comfort in the heat. “If you’re keeping your dog outside in the summer,” says Perras, “it’s important to make sure they’ve got plenty of shade and water.”
But the outdoor playground isn’t the only amenity offered at The Wagging Tail. They also offer traditional pet grooming and, for $25, a quick clean in the Pet Shine machine. “It’s the first automatic dog washing machine in Canada,” says Perras. “In 30 minutes, it’ll wash, dry, de-flea and de-tick your dog.” If it sounds cruel, Perras assures me it’s perfectly safe, admitting he’s tried it on himself. With 36 jets, it massages your pet while it washes and it’s less stressful on the animal because it isn’t restrained. “Plus,” says Perras, “they really do come out shiny.”