By Kendra Weinisch
The village of La Jolla, in San Diego, has always served a niche consumer. Its boutiques have sold St. John sportswear even before Angelina Jolie’s generation gave it a second look. Resident white-gloved ladies who lunch have their personalized note card designs cataloged for reorder at the neighborhood stationer. It is no wonder then that Muttropolis has found such a happy home on Girard Avenue, La Jolla’s posh and pretty main drag.
This high-end pet accessory store caters to those who pamper their furry loved ones with everything from gourmet liver treats to stylish puppy porters. On the Saturday I visited, the place was packed, and people were filling their baskets with everything from gifts for cat lovers to dog beds that look like flowers. We were very charmed and impressed by these beds, featuring a leafy surround that makes your prized pooch the “bud” on this cleverly contrived pet product.
Here’s our haute list of Muttropolis “must haves”:
1. Twist “˜n Treat by Premier
Built on the popularity of the microwavable Hot Pocket, the Twist “˜n Treat puts all the fun inside. You simply unscrew the two plastic pieces to fill the toy with kibble treats then close it back up again. For longer playtime, screw it tight. For instant gratification, keep the opening wide. Either way, your dog will love tackling the Twist to get to the Treat.
2. Loofah Bone
The popularity of this one is a little surprising, as there isn’t any meat smell to keep your dog going, but Cindy assures that the loofah bone is a winner. It relies on the innate pleasure of destruction””and cleans teeth in the meantime. Dogs chew at the natural loofah as they would a rawhide, and the plant-based toy disintegrates into a beneficial vegetarian treat.
3. Dr. Noys Pet Toys
Available in a series of plush animal shapes, Dr. Noys Pet Toys stimulate the animal with a reassuring squeak. Softer, friendlier versions of the classic rubber newspaper or hamburger, Dr. Noys Pet Toys come with replaceable squeakers, so the fun never has to end (until you inevitably get tired of the squeaking and retire the plush).
4. Bamboo Brand Stuffed Toys
When Fido has had enough of the rope, it is time to move on to Bamboo stuffed toys. “Battle tested,” their thick polyester covers stand up to even the most ferocious frolic. You can use them for tugs of war or let your dog carry them away for me-time chewing.
5. Kongs
Of course, no list of dog toys is complete without the Kong. Up there with Greenies in terms of popularity and recommendation, they are the ideal treat for any tongue-wagger. What’s more is that they come in a variety of colors and sizes now, so there is a perfect Kong for every dog or parent. Fill them with creamy Kong-brand goo or your pet’s favorite kibble to keep pooch entertained for hours. Then take them to the park for a game of fetch. Dogs just plain love “˜em.
If you’re too far away to visit the La Jolla Muttropolis, check them out online at Muttropolis.com.
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