outside of the spa in the privacy of the guest’s suite or villa or
on the beach.
Cepriano echoes Vidal’s points, stating that Spa Oceana at
the Loews Don CeSar Hotel offers only in-room canine
massage treatment to avoid any potential disruptions at the
spa. “The only challenge that might occur is that the puppy
would rather cover the massage therapist in puppy kisses
instead of sitting still for the service,” she says.
To ensure that any pet-friendly program or amenity
succeeds, Vidal thinks training and careful staff selection is
important. “All of our associates at Las Ventanas al Paraiso
receive a great deal of training for their roles, and our Dog
Butlers are no exception. Among our talented associates, we
selected those who are most passionate about animals to step
into this new role. They have a real gift for putting our guests’
pets at ease and making them feel happy and comfortable at
our resort,” he says.
Aside from staff training, Cepriano says it’s important to
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 54)
barbara close
President/Founder • Naturopathica •
New York, New York
Furry guests are treated like VIPs (Very Important Pets) at Spa Oceana at
the Loews Don CeSar Hotel with a special canine massage treatment.
ella stimpson
Director of Spa, Fitness and Raquet Sports •
The Spa at Sea Island • Sea Island, Georgia
ellen burns
Northeast Business Manager • [ comfort zone ]
north america • New York, New York
name of pets: pearl & Frankie
name of pet: zoe
Breed: Wire-haired dachshunds
Breed: Boxer
Breed: Boston Terrier
“All of my furry creatures keep me
laughing, one of the best wellness
practices. On the weekends, we like to
chase rabbits and squirrels. Trust me, it’s
quite a workout jumping over bushes
and underbrush! I don’t think I’ve been to
a gym in more than 10 years. I also have
two horses, a 25-year-old Thoroughbred
and a 19 hand Percheron at my home in
Orient on the North Fork of Long Island.”
“She is the most loving dog in the world
and I don’t know if she’s happier sleeping
on my lap or running through the surf at
the beach. She loves unconditionally and
makes me feel whole. I feel guilty when I
leave her some evenings to have a lovely
meal on Saint Simons Island or Sea Island,
so I always bring her a little bit of my
leftover by way of apology. I think she likes
it.”
“Lucy is a very friendly Boston Terrier
whom I have brought into spas and
salons that are dog-friendly. Lucy loves
people and I spoil her by buying her
treats and toys when I travel.”
name of pet: lucy
May 2016
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