Furry friends and prix fixe food

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - They call them the dog days of summer, but why not enjoy them all year round? If you love going to local shops, trying out new foods, or enjoy the outdoors then this month's issue of Rhode Island Monthly is for you--and man's best friend.

Taking pets anywhere requires a lot of gear. From leashes to collars and everything else in between, furry friends have lots of accessories and making them takes plenty of work. Before buying them in the store, or ordering them online, toys, beds, treats, and more are all made at Up Country in East Providence where the staff is one of a kind.

“We’re family-oriented, everybody knows each other, we all get along, everyone comes into work with a smile on their face” said Julie Botelho, General Manager.

In order to go from warehouse to your house, pet collars must go through multiple steps. The fabric is cut, glued, sewn, attachments are added to make for a secure fit, tags are then sewn on. Once made, they are stocked and finally shipped.

To make your pet feel extra special, why not order a personalized collar. Up Country can stitch a name, contact information, or saying on various items like collars.

In addition to selling pet paraphernalia, they also ship their goods around the world--and even around the state to shops like Plaid & Stripe. Named after his two dogs, Robin Bugbee has a unique shop located in Providence.

Plaid and Stripe has items to keep your pets warm, items to hang in your home, and even high class items like a wood and granite dog dish. Bring your pets in to experience it together.

You can also bring your four legged friend to a place where their mouth will water. Dogs in Harmony in Johnston serves homemade treats every day. Owner Denise Holmes loves for customers to visit with their dogs.

"I had a golden retriever who we adopted when she was four years old. She had horrible, terrible allergies. There was nothing to feed her so I started making her food; I started making her treats and one thing led to another."

Dogs in Harmony has all natural ingredients, diabetic and low-fat treats, a variety of healthy food options, sports gear for your pets, and locally made collars.

"I really think it's important for Rhode Island small businesses to help each. We're all in the same boat, we're all trying to survive. If I can help somebody else with that, I'm really happy to do that,” said Holmes.

If you're looking for a great outdoor activity with your pup, why not try one of the many dog park like the one at Hanes Park in Barrington. Dogs will love spending time sniffing, playing, and running with others. Dozens of pet lovers come every day.

Dog parks are always open, always free, and always fenced in. So you can feel safe allowing your canine to roam in just a collar. Reward them after a full day with local snacks that will keep them coming back for more.

Jamie Coelho, Associate Editor of RI Monthly, visited The Rhode Show to talk about the February issue.

Many people treat their pets like children so Rhode Island Monthly decided to dedicate part of their magazine to canines.
“We rounded up a bunch of activities and things that you can do with your pet,” said Coelho.

Puppy birthday parties were one thing that was among the list. Head to a dog park, dress pups in different outfits, bring doggie goodie bags filled with treats, and celebrate with friends.

Taking puppy primping to the next level can be done with a spa day.

At Pets Gone Natural in Wakefield you can “get a pawticure, your dog can get washed and have their fur blown out” says Coelho.

To learn more about Up Country, Plaid & Stripe, Dogs in Harmony, dog parks, and other local dog delights that are in the Ocean State, pick up this month's issue of Rhode Island Monthly, available now.