PRIMP THAT POOCH

Strays get lux treatments in hopes of finding homes
By Anna Fiorentino
Wednesday, November 14, 2007

As sales of high-end dog products hit $1.3 million in 2007, the market continues to expand. SexyBeast, a line of perfume and hair care products for dogs, launched in April.

As sPoochies Spa worked with the Boston Animal Shelter, they agreed to sample some of the haute beauty products on Pootsy and Parido.

"The SexyBeast line is a little more high end than what we usually use. It's used on the dogs when they're dry, versus wet," said groomer Leigha Scoudan. "Dog products were traditionally seen on show poodles. Now the average dog's lifestyle is different - less utilitarian. We have just about every kind of dog and owner come in to get their pets groomed. Many say they spend more money on their dogs than themselves."

After four hours of haircuts, flea treatments, shampoos, blowouts and a once-over with SexyBeast’s luxury powder ($26), laminating mist ($28) and fragrance ($50), the underdogs were ready for their debut at the Animal Rescue League's benefit fashion show at Boston Public Meat.

A percentage of proceeds from the show went to the shelter.