The top dogs shop here. Literally, the Guide Dogs, the world's most elite and well-trained dogs, shop here. Or at least, mine do. I just pay for their purchases. I have two Labrador Guide Dogs, as boisterous in play and fun as they are serious in work. I found River Dogs on Yelp after hunting fruitlessly through the Boston Petcos and Petsmarts for toys and equipment that could stand up to the abuse my dogs put things through. I got sick and tired of asking Petco employees for very specific things that expert dog handlers ask for all the time: a good sturdy waterproof jacket, toys that won't fall apart after much abuse and have pieces chewed off, healthy high value treats, a backpack that is as comfortable as it is functional for my dog to wear under her harness... The Petco employees usually had almost no ideas and the things they did suggest were generic: Kongs, Pawz and other things I already own that I want to supplement. I was skeptical of trying this place though, as neighborhood pet stores usually fall short of my super high expectations. I called ahead, told them a few of the things I was looking for, and when I walked in, the sales associate already had things out and ready for me to touch and try on my dog. There were lots of dogs in back barking and playing and seemingly having a wonderful time at day care. ONe of them was working with an employee, either training or socializing. The woman assisting me was patient, showed me how to use unfamiliar products, read me labels, gave her knowledgeable recommendations,, and was friendly and competent and businesslike when handling my Guide Dog. Several other customers came in to drop off dogs or have their pets' nails trimmed. Each time, the sales associates greeted the dogs by name, and said hello to the owners. It was truly a show of why we humans walk at the back end of the leash. It's all about the dogs here. Which, in a store like this, is how it should be. They cared for the wellbeing of my dog and I as a team, and were careful to select products that will serve my guide well in her travels and will stand up to her rough play and chewing. She takes work hard, play hard to the enth degree, and her toys are how she burns off a long stressful day guiding me around the noisy, bustling Boston streets. I find toys here that wouldn't be in your average chain pet store, toys that make dogs think, and work to solve problems, and stimulate them, mind and body. My dog is relaxed and focused after a good play session with the toys I found here, and i'm sure that in future, this will be her favorite store! If it's good enough for the top dogs on earth, all dogs should go here! And bring their humans to foot the bill. Side Note: I didn't use their day care services, but I did note that there was always someone interacting with and watching the dogs in the back, someone who cares and is kind and loves what she's doing. Dogs are loved here. It's a safe, happy place for them. I wouldn't bring my dog near any place I felt wasn't the best, since my dog is my safety, and if something happens to my dog, I'm up a creek. My dog is an extension of my body, and I would definitely feel comfortable having my dogs cared for here. read more
