by Meredith Knight, Northshore Living

From that first whiff of puppy breath, you were a goner. From the first time he looked up from a puddle on the kitchen floor with an expression of utter innocence, you knew this was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

And you were right. For many of us, the four-legged members of our family are a constant we never want to do without. They are that someone who loves us unconditionally, who never holds a grudge, is always head-over-tail glad to see us, never too busy to give us his undivided attention and acts like our every arrival back home is cause for celebration.

But, too often, the reality of working for a living means we repay unending loyalty with a quick pat on the head as we bustle off to work and back. We find ourselves beginning each day with a sense of guilt, because we know our eight hours at work means eight hours of loneliness and boredom for the canine love-of-our-life.

That’s why so many Northshore residents have found the perfect solution in Camp Bow Wow, the premier doggy day and overnight camp at 14279 Highway 1085 in Covington. When you enroll your dog in Camp Bow Wow he can look forward to a day that’s as fun-filled as the ones you get to spend together.

In this fun, safe, upscale environment your dog is supervised at all times by “camp counselors” who interact with him. He has other dogs to romp and play with in a clean, fresh-smelling, climate-controlled environment. During the day, he might splash around in the doggy pool. If he needs to stay overnight, he’ll have his own private “cabin” with a comfy cot and blankets and a campfire treat before bedtime.

The indoor/outdoor play yards are secure, spacious and complete with play equipment. Camper Cams allow you to check in on your pet during the day from your computer or mobile phone. All Camp Bow Wow counselors are pet first aid and CPR certified and—more importantly—bona fide dog lovers. Your pet can be fed the same diet he’s used to receiving at home, so there’s no surprise to his digestive system or Camp Bow Wow will provide high-quality food, at no extra charge.

Don’t be surprised when your dog bounds into Camp Bow Wow each day forgetting to tell you “good-bye” then gets home too tired to play. Don’t take it personally. Camp is an environment created with his every comfort and interest in mind. After all, isn’t a day of play and indulgence the least you can give him for all he gives to you?