Dog lover, Diane LaFemina, says parting with her dog for any period of time is heartbreaking enough, but the thought of leaving her pup caged-up in a kennel makes it worse. "It's not healthy," she says. "Dogs don't like it and neither do their parents."

When LaFemina isn't rescuing people on the job as a New York City Paramedic, she rescues stray animals and brings them home. Last October, she turned her passion into a business when she opened Camp Bow Wow in Richmond Valley-an upscale resort for dogs. She says she wanted to give owners a better place to leave their dogs when they're not home. "They're or children with fur and four legs," says LaFemina.

Sprawled across more than 21,000 square feet, Camp Bow Wow is the largest overnight dog care facility in the city. Whether dropping a pup off for day care Monday through Friday, or a longer-term stay during a vacation,  LaFemina reports that her clients can trust that their pets are in a safe and fun environment. The cage-free facility features luxury suites, pool time, orthopedic beds, and a staff certified in canine health, first aid, and CPR. The place is even wired with cameras and internet access so owners can log on and check in on their dogs.

LaFemina runs the business with her daughter, Fiori. Together they screen each and every dog that comes through the door. "We want to know that the dog is people-friendly and dog-friendly," LaFemina says. Even when passed as dog-community friendly, the camp continues to promote positive socialization among the animals. She even offers a foster care and adoption program for pets seeking a home. Even in tough economic times, she says she believes her service is important enough to weather the storm. "When it comes to your kids, she says, "Two legs or four, you still want the best care for them."

Camp Bow Wow, 4707 Arthur
Kill Road, 718.984.9663