Bow-wow: Dogs nudge economy

SARASOTA — A strong economic indicator might be found inside the Bayside Pet Resort & Spa, which is having a record-breaking month.

The high-end doggie daycare and grooming facility, which opened on U.S. 41 in Sarasota in June recorded 245 pet-lodging nights last week, according to a release. That's compared to 275 pet-lodging nights the entire month of August. The breakdown of services: 98 dogs in daycare, 24 dogs groomed and 63 boarding appointments.

“We are having a tremendous month,” Bayside general manager Marilee Namaka says in a release. “We've had to hire and train more staff and really gear up for Season as we expect another business boom closing out the fourth quarter of this year, as people get ready for their winter vacations.”

Sarasota entrepreneur Bob Huff founded Bayside, which is in a 22,000-square-foot facility near the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. Huff spent at least $5 million to turn the building, a former bowling alley, into a dog and cat haven. Features include orthopedic beds in some rooms; a cat playroom with an aquarium; and an online “doggy cam,” where owners can watch their pets.