Pet Pampering

Express your pet's unique personality and political opinions.

These funny political pet toys come in both dog and cat sizes and feature lots of different political figures, including John Kerry, Arnold Schwarzenegger, the I.R.S. tax man and Saddam Hussein. Let your pet decide! Found at 2 Dogs and a Cat in South Lake Tahoe, (530) 541-2322 and Tails by the Lake in The Village at Squaw Valley, 1-877-464-3364

Tails by the Lake in The Village at Squaw Valley carries a variety of unique pet tags like brass or sterling silver beauties by metalsmith Goodman Gries ($150-$240) or whimsical sterling silver creations by jewelry designer Naomi Levitin ($35). Call 1-877-464-3364 to order, or visit the online store at www.tailsbythelake.com.

Durable saddlebag-style dog packs by Ruff Wear come in five sizes ($39.95-$59.95), allowing all breeds to haul their own grub on hiking adventures. Ruff Wear packs and accessories are found at various pet and outdoor recreation shops around The Lake.

Individualize your pooch's collar with this "Make Your Own Collar" kit. Kit includes nylon dog collar (durable, washable & waterproof), paint kit with five colors, instruction booklet and design ideas ($16). Found at Tails by the Lake in The Village at Squaw Valley, 1-877-464-3364.

Mutt Hutt pet tent ($88-$98) comes in two sizes to accommodate all of your four-legged friends. Unlike some human tents, these portable pet shelters can be pitched in seconds with their Easypower® tent frame. Found at 2 Dogs and a Cat in South Lake Tahoe, (530) 541-2322 and Scraps Dog Bakery in Kings Beach, (530) 546-2725 and Truckee, (530) 582-5044.

Capture your favorite dog or cat's personality through an original acrylic pet portrait by artist Jen Raynes. Paintings range from $950 to $3800 depending on size. Call 1-877-464-3364 for details. Other pet portrait artists can be found at Scraps in Kings Beach, (530) 546-2725 and Truckee, (530) 582-5044.