Happy Dog Hotel and Spa, Carmel

Since opening their doors in mid-December 2011, friendly staffers at Happy Dog Hotel and Spa have welcomed pooches into a wag-worthy space outfitted with deluxe hotel suites, private courtyard, and capacious play zone. Owners can take a complete tour of the modern, brand-new space to view its shined wood floors, textured wall coverings, and trendy accents. Canines stay the night in suites ranging from 20 to 48 square feet, and all boarders enjoy soft blankets, two meals a day plus scrambled eggs with breakfast, and five walks to the private courtyard. Caring staffers treat dogs like their own, dishing out treats, toys, and medication brought from home at no extra charge. Owners can opt to let their boarding pooches release pent-up energy with romps and heated Scrabble matches in the bustling daycare area, where the attentive staffers ensure safe, friendly play. Visiting pups also can unwind in the spa, where staff members shampoo, brush, and clip coats while a stereo plays the soothing sounds of bellies being rubbed.