Ruff Life: four pro pamperers for your pets

By Denise Balkissoon, Chantal Braganza, Matthew Hague, Bronwen Jervis, Emily Landau, Peter Saltsman and Courtney Shea | Photograph by Daniel Ehrenworth

Like a really good nanny, VIP Sitters will do absolutely everything for your pet, including dog walking, pet sitting (you know, if you need a night to yourself), grooming and whatever else your furry pal requires. They’ll do it 24/7—and will even cremate and bury your deceased companion when the time comes. From $30 an hour. 416-361-0000, vipsitters.com.

Laws of nature dictate that even the ­cutest, fluffiest creatures can leave disgusting remnants all over a backyard. (This is especially noticeable after the first thaw.) For any owner who can’t face cleaning up the poopsicles, Scooperman will come by once a week to deliver you from dog waste duties, trim the lawn and leave you with time to enjoy the fun parts of pet ownership. From $12 a week. 416-551-7667, scooperman.ca.

Wooftown is like Grocery Gateway for dogs. Why go to the store and ­schlep 15-kilogram bags of pet food when someone can bring it right to your door? And it’s not just any old bag of kibble. We’re talking premium, mostly organic stuff, as well as other goodies like toys, crates and winter booties. Free delivery for orders over $49. 416-929-2840, wooftown.com.

Barking Along Pet Care ­Services will completely organize your dog’s busy life. They’ll house-train your puppy, set up regular grooming ­appointments—along with transportation, of course—and provide you with insider info on all the best vets, trainers and groomers in the city. They also specialize in overnight boarding, daycare and daily walking. From $18. 416-445-0300, barkingalong.com.