Imagine this: your furry best friend heading off for a luxurious getaway filled with soothing tunes, high-end snacks, and top-notch pampering—while you're away on business or just needing a break. It's not just a dream; it's the reality at the brand-new Wiggles Pet Resort in Connecticut, where dogs are treated like VIP guests. But here's where it gets controversial: are we blurring the lines between pets and people, or is this the ultimate act of love for our four-legged companions? Stick around to dive deeper into this heartwarming trend that's sparking debates among pet owners everywhere.
This weekend marked the grand opening of a $5 million extravaganza: a state-of-the-art luxury resort and spa in Middlebury, Connecticut, tailored exclusively for dogs. The facility boasts suites equipped with calming background music, expansive flat-screen TVs tuned to Animal Planet or canine-themed flicks, and an array of healthy, gourmet treats that make even the pickiest pup wag with delight. Owned by the dynamic mother-son team of Laura and Craig Laaman, this is their third venture—and by far the largest—under the Wiggles banner. Drawing on over three decades of experience in premium pet care, they've crafted a haven that goes beyond basic boarding, ensuring every detail caters to canine comfort.
Picture this for a beginner in the world of pet resorts: these aren't your average kennels with bare cages. Instead, Wiggles offers climate-controlled suites with elevated beds and luxurious linens, designed to mimic a cozy home away from home. Each unit includes personalized potty spaces, making accidents a thing of the past. To keep things fun and engaging, there are five indoor-outdoor play yards—perfect for group romps or solo adventures—and a full roster of activities to keep tails wagging. It's like a five-star hotel for dogs, where the focus is on enrichment, exercise, and sheer joy, rather than just warehousing animals until their owners return.
'We spotted a real gap in the market for exceptional pet care,' explains Laura Laaman, a Southbury resident who's dedicated more than 30 years to the field. 'Connecticut has a vibrant pet community, but breaking in wasn't easy. My son Craig, who's 36, and I share six dogs between our families, so we knew firsthand the need for quality options. That's why we stepped up.' Each of their locations employs over 20 staff members and sits on sprawling, picturesque acreage, intentionally evoking the feel of a fun doggy camp. Dogs start their day with custom-made breakfasts delivered like room service, followed by outdoor potty breaks, playtime with pals, snack sessions, rest periods, and more play—it's a structured yet blissful routine that keeps them happy and healthy.
The Laamans launched their first Wiggles in Mahopac, New York, about three and a half years ago, followed by a Durham spot in February (converted from an existing kennel). Those initial sites each required $1.5 million in renovations and upgrades. But the Middlebury gem at 1082 Southford Road is a game-changer: a double-sized build from scratch, boasting advanced air filtration and purification systems for optimal health, plus top-tier security to give pet parents peace of mind. 'We're confident there's no other pet resort in Connecticut—or even the wider tri-state area—that matches our level of amenities and attention to detail,' Laura proudly shares. 'We've drawn from the best practices we've observed over the years, combining them to create something truly extraordinary.'
And this is the part most people miss: the emotional side. Pet owners crave a sanctuary where their dogs can truly thrive, which is why they chose the name 'Wiggles'—symbolizing that ultimate happiness where tails can't stop moving. 'Parents deserve that relief, knowing they've got a reliable partner for when life's demands pull them away,' Laura adds. Rates begin at a surprisingly affordable $59 per night, with add-ons like extra grooming or training available to customize the experience. 'It's not about cramming dogs into generic spaces; we're all about fun, engagement, enrichment, exercise, and pampering,' she emphasizes. 'Every plan is tailored to the individual dog's personality, ensuring they get exactly what they need.'
Beyond overnight stays, Wiggles offers doggie daycare, positive reinforcement training (with day and overnight options), full-service grooming including haircuts, nail trims, and even doggie facials, and a dedicated 'nursery' for young puppies. Clients often share heart-melting videos of their dogs' excitement: just mention 'Wiggles,' and the wiggles begin. 'Seeing that joyful reaction to our name is the best feeling,' Laura says. 'It creates a positive vibe we cherish.' She compares it to entrusting your kids to a trusted babysitter or grandma—only this is a purpose-built paradise for pups, with superior flooring and air quality to ward off any stress.
As a quick example to help beginners grasp this, think of it like human resorts: if you dread a generic motel, imagine a dog feeling anxious in a basic kennel. At Wiggles, it's all about positive associations—much like how you'd feel at your favorite spa, relaxed and rejuvenated. But here's where it gets controversial... Is spending hundreds on pet luxuries excessive, or a necessary investment in their well-being? Some argue it's indulgent, potentially spoiling dogs who might prefer simpler play, while others see it as essential for mental health, especially in our busy lives. What do you think—does this set a new standard for pet care, or is it overkill?
Real stories from happy clients bring it home. Adrienne Sharon from North Madison has been sending her 8-month-old German Shepherd mix, Kosmos, to the Durham location two or three times a week since summer. At around $40 per day, she calls it money well spent, praising the spotless cleanliness and Kosmos's transformation. 'He adores it,' she says. 'Unlike any dog or kid I've known who resists separation, Kosmos can't wait—he perks up at the word 'Wiggles' and hops in the car eagerly. It's not essential for my part-time work, but he craves the social interaction and loves the staff. Getting him to leave is the challenge; he's made friends and even has a 'girlfriend' there. He's safe, exercised, fed, and rested—I'd recommend it to every dog owner.'
Then there's Mollie, a 4-year-old Plott Hound/Mountain Cur rescue and service dog for Cheryl Dargento of Northford. Disabled and unable to walk Mollie herself, Cheryl relies on Wiggles for three weekly daycare sessions. 'Socialization is key for her,' Cheryl notes. 'It's tough for me to venture out, but Wiggles provides a secure space for her to romp with others. She gets so excited on 'Wiggles days'—jumping up and grabbing her leash—that we've never seen from other facilities. It's been a lifesaver.'
In wrapping up, Wiggles isn't just a business; it's a revolution in how we view pet care, blending luxury with genuine compassion. Yet, as we've explored, opinions diverge: Is this progressive pampering or a slippery slope toward humanizing animals too much? Do the benefits outweigh the costs, or should we focus on more 'traditional' options? We'd love to hear your take—agree that dogs deserve this level of indulgence, or disagree and share why? Drop your thoughts in the comments below; let's spark a conversation about the future of pet parenting!
