BEST OF NEW YORK


Services

Best Dog Hotel
Biscuits & Bath
227 East 44th Street
212-692-2323


There are five floors (a rooftop garden is in the works) devoted to doggy indulgence at this cheery, newly opened, 25,000-square-foot facility: four massive exercise areas, a lap pool, a grooming salon, veterinary care, a boutique, “Lullaby Village” (charmingly decorated crates) for snooze time, and an immaculate kitchen for food prep. For owners, they also offer classes, lectures, events, and a snack bar–café. Biscuits & Bath is a little pricier than other facilities, but after inspecting some dungeonlike places, you might think this a bargain. Dogs are supervised 24/7 and get leash walks every few hours. Annual membership is $250 the first year, $150 thereafter; day care (proof of shots is required) is $30–$35 per day, depending on the size of dog; overnight stays are $55. Currently, there is a free, specially outfitted jitney service for pickups and returns. Two wonderful neighborhood places (though neither has a shuttle service) deserve honorable mentions: Camp Canine (46 West 76th Street; 212-787-3647) is impeccably clean, bright, and well run. Sutton Dog Parlor (311 East 60th Street; 212-355-2850) has an almost magical backyard (at night, it’s lit up like Tavern on the Green) for the big dogs, with toys, ramps, hoops, and a pool in summertime. There’s an always-open door to their basement play area, and although it’s on the small side, it’s still jolly-looking and well scrubbed. The small dogs have an airy, comfy play space adjacent to the yard. And all the dogs have huge kennels.