Today dogs stay in day-care centers that allow owners to check in on their pets by video via the Internet. More places dog-friendly Besides the pet superstore chains that encourage owners to bring their animals along, increasingly, furniture stores, hotels and other businesses not only tolerate but welcome dogs. For the last few years, Comiskey Park has opened its doors to dogs for one game. The businesses that cater to dogs are endless. Many coffee shops now stock cookie jars with dog biscuits and keep water bowls filled.
Dogs appreciate such pampering, say the professionals.
Maximilian is one happy pug now that his owner, Allyson Heumann of Chicago, spotted a little yellow life jacket in the store's window. Maximilian doesn't like the rain, either. Owners share the wealth This good fortune for dogs is in part driven by the economy. But money doesn't explain everything. Instead of a piece of property in the back yard that makes noise, they are now part of the family.'' For some, dogs ARE family.