Doggy Day at the Spa
by Lorrie Imbert
I’m in love with my dog, a gorgeous young flat-coated retriever named Rupert. I admit it – his dad and I spoil him rotten with endless cuddles, gourmet home-cooked dog food, organic biscuits, and two hours of daily play and exercise, mostly off leash. So it should come as no surprise that one day I decided Rupert, like his mum, deserved a day of luxury and pampering at a spa.
After some research, we discovered a doggy spa in the country named Autumn Acres. Owners Sue and Dave Armstrong have been in business for seven years and tell me they were the first dog spa in Ontario. They both used to have regular jobs with long commutes, but they seem much happier with their new occupation – spending their days caring for canines at their peaceful country retreat.
The Armstrong’s offer services such as day care, in-home boarding, grooming and massage in their immaculate home located north of the small town of Rockwood, Ontario. Sue is a certified groomer with pet first aid, and both she and her husband have taken courses in animal massage. The couple specializes in socialization, working with dogs with issues, and creating a positive, friendly camp atmosphere. This leads to relaxed, happy dogs that come home tired, according to their pleased owners.
The property includes 10 acres in the woods where the dogs get to romp several times a day. This was Rupert’s introduction to Autumn Acres. He had a fantastic time racing around trees and bounding into streams with his new buddy Gus, one of the Armstrong’s three rescue dogs. Gus is even the star of a touching children’s book written by Sue, called The Adventures of Gus and Us.
When we finished our trail walk, Rupert went into a large outdoor fenced area to play with several other dogs, where he quickly made new friends including at least one girlfriend, a sweet Airedale puppy. The dogs are supervised at all times to ensure that no one gets overly boisterous.
Dave, who loves to cook, soon appeared with doggy cookies he baked from scratch. His treats are seldom if ever refused! They include ingredients such as eggs, garlic, pumpkin, beef stock and oregano. Dave and Sue are advocates of a holistic approach to health, including home cooking for your best friend.
After everyone enjoyed their treats, I left Rupert behind for his special day of pampering. He spent the morning frolicking with his buddies and hiking in the woods. In the afternoon, Sue gave him an aromatherapy bath using lavender and tea tree oils. She proceeded to groom him, trim his nails, and clean his ears. This was Rupert’s first professional grooming experience, and I hear he behaved quite well for a youngster!
The next step was the best yet – a massage with Dave. Apparently, he thoroughly enjoyed his treatment, especially the facial massage. When I picked him up, Rupert looked spectacular. His jet black coat was gleaming from head to toe. He seemed happy but tired and slept soundly that night. My biggest challenge now is keeping him from leaping into mud puddles so I can enjoy his beauty for as long as possible!
As much as I look forward to my next spa experience, I’m sure Rupert will be equally delighted to return for a day of pampering and play at Autumn Acres.
For more information, call (519) 855-4833 or visit www.autumnacres.ca
Lorrie Imbert is the natural health editor of Spa Life magazine.