CLEVELAND — Good news for dog owners who live or commute to work in Cleveland: there's a brand new place for your pup to stay and play opening up in just a few weeks.
With over 260 locations Dogtopia is the largest provider of dog daycare in North America. Starting October 28, the city of Cleveland will be home to its newest facility.
We got a tour with owner Alex Mazzenga even before some of the finishing touches were installed.
Mazzenga and wife Whitney had dreams of a city location, even before they opened their first location in Solon late last year.
Former downtown dwellers with furbaby Suge, the couple felt Cleveland needed more for its four-legged population.
"Downtown Cleveland is the largest work hub in Northeast Ohio, and right now there's 20,000 people living downtown," Mazzenga said. "So it's a great option for people who are gonna be living down here as well as those who are gonna be working down here."
Mazzenga calls Dogtopia the "ultimate doggy social club" as it specializes in daycare, overnight boarding and spa services.
The company's mission boils down to three main objectives: providing socialization, exercise and education all in a safe space. They take pride in their staff too. "All of our coaches go through a training program developed by Dogtopia Vet and Canine Behavioralist. It was also certified by the CCPDT, which is the governing body for dog trainers.
Dogtopia offers three different playrooms for dogs based on size, energy level and temperament. Safety measures include double doors, soundproofed playrooms and rubberized flooring which is much gentler on paw pads and joints.
Hospital-grade HVAC helps promote respiratory health and keeps the building smelling fresh.
Prior to beginning play, each dog is given a 32-point nose-to-tail wellness check.
All breeds and sized dogs are welcome at Dogtopia. But they do have a multistep test to ensure they're ready to stay and play.
That includes a crate test, human comfort test and one-on-one meet and greets with dogs of different sizes, energy levels, and both sexes.
"We will move dogs around to make sure they're in the room with like-minded players so that they'll enjoy and find their best furry friend forever," according to Mazzenga.
Up-to-date immunizations are a must. That includes Bordetella, DHPP and rabies. Dogs age 7 months and older must be spayed or neutered.
If your dog passes the compatibility test, it's on to open play where they can meet new friends, check out agility equipment or maybe even enjoy some bacon, peanut butter or birthday cake flavored bubbles? The staff also offers plenty of enrichment opportunities to keep dogs engaged.
Pet parents can check in during the day via livestreams on Dogtopia's website or mobile app.
Spa services include luxurious baths for healthy coats, fluff dry and brush out, nail trimming, ear cleaning and teeth brushing.
Downtown clients will enjoy an extra perk: curb to car service. Using the Dogtopia app, clients can let Dogtopia staff know when you are about to arrive, so they can be at the curb ready to greet you and your pet. No need to worry about finding parking.
For Mazzenga, his vision for Dogtopia Downtown Cleveland is clear: "We want to be the most safe, fun place (dogs) can go and hang out with their friends."
Learn more about Dogtopia of Downtown Cleveland HERE.
Learn more about Dogtopia of Solon HERE.