A New Haven for Paws: Connecticut's Luxury Dog Resort

In the heart of Connecticut, a new kind of getaway has opened its doors, but it's not for humans—it's for their furry friends. Wiggles Pet Resort, a high-end dog resort and spa, has just launched its third and largest location in Middlebury. This isn't your average kennel; it's a luxury retreat designed to make dogs feel like they're on vacation. The resort offers climate-controlled suites complete with relaxing music and flat-screen TVs tuned to Animal Planet or dog-themed movies. Dogs can enjoy indoor-outdoor play yards, gourmet treats, and even individual potty areas. It's all about making sure the dogs have a great time while their owners are away. The idea behind Wiggles Pet Resort came from Laura and Craig Laaman, a mother-son team with over 30 years of experience in premium pet care. They noticed a gap in the market for top-notch pet care and decided to fill it. Their first location opened in Mahopac, New York, three and a half years ago, followed by a second in Durham, Connecticut. The new Middlebury location is a $5 million investment and is double the size of the initial two. The resort is designed to make dogs feel like they're at camp, with multiple acres of countryside scenery. Dogs start their day with breakfast, followed by playtime, snacks, and rest breaks. It's a full day of fun and pampering. The resort also offers positive dog training, full-service grooming, and even a nursery for puppies. The cost starts at $59 a night, with additional amenities available. The Laamans emphasize that they're not just a kennel; they're about providing a fun and enriching experience for dogs. They want pet owners to feel relieved knowing their dogs are in good hands. Customers have shared their positive experiences with Wiggles Pet Resort. Adrienne Sharon of North Madison has been taking her German Shepherd mix, Kosmos, to the Durham location since the summer. She says Kosmos loves it there and gets excited whenever she mentions the word "Wiggles. " Cheryl Dargento of Northford also shares a similar experience with her service dog, Mollie, who jumps up and goes to her leash whenever it's time for a Wiggles day.