Michele Williams – Pet (and Human) Photographer
Most pet owners have tons of photos of their dogs on their phones. But for something a bit more professional, reach out to Michele Williams, a photographer in the 068 area for more than 10 years. As she zooms in on family photos, she encourages people to bring their dog/s (they are part of the family after all!). Beyond family sessions, Williams offers pet portraits and aging dog shoots, as well as end of life photos for terminally ill dogs, which resonates emotionally with pet owners. One client said, “What a gift for our family to have these photos of our beloved pet.”
If you are wondering if it’s worth the money to get professional pictures of your dog, the answer is YES! “It’s wonderful to have someone capture your fur-ever friend, and you can be included in the pictures instead of just taking them,” Williams says. “If you have an elderly dog, don’t delay – get those sessions booked while they still have the energy.”
“Take your time, create a relaxed atmosphere, and let your dog’s personality shine through,” Williams advises. She also recommends using treats and playful sounds to capture candid moments naturally.
Try it out! To book a session with Michele, email mewwill22@gmail.com, call 203-403-3151, or you can visit michelewphotographer.wixsite.com.
Treated Groom Spa
15 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield
Adding to its diverse offerings, Treats Pupperia (see Sept/Oct ‘23 issue for full profile) recently opened a spa for its four-legged clients. “We are a safe, comforting place for dogs to enjoy the grooming experience,” says co-owner Kelly Ramos. “We have an ‘open kitchen’ so owners see and feel the love their dog receives from our amazing team of groomers.”
Located behind Treats Pupperia, Pupperia Spa sets the mood with dim lighting, aromatherapy, earth tones, and soothing surround sound in its private “zen den” dog suites. The Quickie, Ohh My GOODness, Ohh My GREATness, Beauty Day, and Salon Pack grooming services come with a luxury bath, nail trim and buff, and ear, eye, teeth cleaning. Add-ons include haircut and shaping, deshedding, facial, mud bath, reiki, red light therapy, and bemer therapy. “My dog Bessie was ‘treated’ with the utmost care and relaxation! It’s an upscale dog grooming spa without the high price,” says Rebecca Coldwell.
Try it out! To book a session, visit treatsdogcompany.com/pages/treated-grrom-spa, download the Treated Groom Spa app, or call 203-917-6980.
Passage East
499 Danbury Road. Wilton
Twenty-five years ago, Joe and Laura Kaddis, Weston residents and long-time animal shelter volunteers with a passion for rehabilitating abused dogs, nipped at the chance to buy a kennel in Wilton – and the new Passage East was born. “We envisioned a canine retreat that would serve as a trusted resource for pup loving community members, giving pets a vacation spot and helping dogs of all breeds and backgrounds.”
Today, Passage East offers dog boarding, daycare, and grooming. “My dog loves Passage East so much that his tail wags whenever we pull into their driveway. I bring him for both daycare and boarding, and he always has a great time,” says client Dylan Morsanutto.
Dogs who are boarded enjoy two outdoor play sessions a day with add on indulgences such as homemade frozen treats and peanut butter Kongs, one-on-one playtime, snuggle sessions, or extra time in the splash pools. Doggie daycare has also become increasingly popular. “Daycare is an ideal option for dogs with high energy, destructive habits, or separation anxiety. For the same price as a one-hour walk, they get a full day of care with fresh air, exercise, and socialization,” says Kaddis.
For pet parents who are looking for a bit of pampering for their furry family members, Passage East has standard grooming services like baths, haircuts, deshedding services, nail trims, and brushouts, as well as “fashion forward” options, like nail painting and dog safe
hair dye.
“Last year we completed a massive project to update our play yards on our four-acre campus,” Kaddis says. “We now have state of the art, pet friendly turf, a grass one-on-one play area with outdoor lighting, and a ‘wags-and-waves’ water park with splash pads, pools, and sprinklers.”
Try it out! For reservations, email dogsrunfree@passageeastkennels.com, call 203-762-7998 or you can visit passageeastkennels.com. •
