By Barbara De Lollis, USA TODAY

In a sign that over-the-top, luxury spending might be making a comeback, the ritzy Jumeirah Essex House in New York – the USA’s most expensive hotel city – next month will start offering doggie turndown service.Yes, you read that right – turndown service for dogs, at a time when some luxury hotels have cut back on the luxurious perk for humans to cut costs.

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The luxury hotel segment was the hotel segment hurt worst by the recession and travel downturn during the last two years. The Jumeirah Essex House, however, thinks its well-heeled customers are ready to indulge Spot.

The hotel brought in a “doggie designer” to create a memorable experience that includes “luxury bedding.”

The program lets Fido sleep on a designer dog bed or mini, pop-up tent from Wagwear New York City boutique (see photo); chew on dog treats made by the hotel’s executive pastry chef, and dine from Wagwear bowls laid on a matching placemat.

The program also extends to daytime perks. For those seeking to test a new look, they can borrow from the hotel’s collection of fashionable collars and leashes. The hotel’s concierges can also help VIP dogs if they want to be seen at the hottest, new, park trail.

Finally, no luxury perk program would be complete without a gift bag. The hotel’s doggie gift bag includes a plush logoed fleece blanket that can – seriously – be monogrammed upon request.

Posted Jun 23 2010 6:29AM
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