Yesterday, my landlord was doing work at the apartment, and when I found out, it was too late to get a dogsitter for Comet. As I often do when I’m desperate, I turned to the net for a solution.

And this time, I found civilization’s next giant leap forward: doggie daycare. Not your usual kennel, where dogs are kept in cages, but a place that keeps them in common rooms with other dogs, with outdoor access and people and educators who play with them all day. The center is complete with grooming facilities, an obedience training school and a boutique. I decided to give it a try.

Don’t get me wrong, this isn’t kind of place I could afford to - or would even want to - send Comet to everyday. I mean, who am I, Michèle Richard? I was a little iffy on the yuppiness of the concept, but when I got there it was clear I was dealing with real people. Real dog people. (Oh, and cats. Lots of cats freely roaming the waiting area).

When I picked Comet up, the head trainer spent a good twenty minutes giving her an evaluation, discussing her with me and giving me great tips and pointers. Most surprising of all, he doesn’t think she’s stupid. I had to call T with the news! But I’m not completely convinced of it yet myself.

Anyway, I’m sold. It was great to find that I had a humane alternative to a kennel, a place where I could always leave her with responsible, competent dog lovers.

The place is called Montreal Dogs.

(picture from www.montrealdogs.com)