By Suzie Rodriguez
April 1, 2010

Back when dogs labored as watchdogs or herders and lived off scraps, people coined phrases like it’s a dog’s life when they wanted to say life is hard for people and dogs alike.

Times have changed. These days, that saying can refer to a life of pampered luxury and over-the-top indulgence. Kennels? Never! These lavish pets-only resorts make us a little envious: if only we could fool the management and hang out poolside with our pup.

Atlanta Dogworks is a state-of-the-art boarding and dog training facility, nestled in 15 acres in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. The “at-home” suites feature flat-screen TV, DVD player, toy basket, private living room, and an outdoor patio. Your pet enjoys two activities daily, chosen from a list that includes nature walks and swimming in the pool. Training for boarded dogs even features dock diving and frisbee catching!

The award-winning Applewood Pet Resort in Scottsdale describes itself as “one of Arizona’s most sumptuous resorts.” Guests sleep atop real, fleece-covered beds; take laps in a bone-shaped pool; and relax by watching color television in spacious, air-conditioned suites or rooms. Each dog is individually leash-walked twice daily, or arrange for off-leash playtimes in the tree-shaded yard. Special extras include an order of Pupsicles, made from frozen yogurt, or having your dog salon-groomed from nose to tail.

With two locations in Chicago and one in Sunnyvale, CA, the glamorous Pooch Hotel is the Ritz Carlton for dogs providing the ultimate in daycare, overnight accommodations and “spaw” services. Dogs can take a swimming lesson in the indoor lap pool or they can play with other guests in the indoor and outdoor play areas before retiring to one of the spacious suites for some rest. A nutritional consultant will even create a custom diet plan for your dog.

While you’re taking in the sights of San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country, veterinarian-owned Palms Pet Resort & Spa will instruct your pet in the intricacies of four-legged etiquette with classes like Pet Manners and Canine Good Citizen. When studies are over, your pup will chill in her own private, air-conditioned cabana, or hit the on-site salon for grooming, styling, HydroSurge bathing, and other treatments. Best thing: you can watch her during indoor/outdoor Doggie Play Time via the web cam.

And that’s no foolin’!

Photos courtesy of Pooch Hotel, Atlanta Dogworks and Applewood Pet Resort