The Dog Days

By Melissa August, Amanda Bower, Christina Lewis, Victoria Rainert, Sylvia Wong Shih Chin, Sora Song, Heather Won Tesoriero, Josh Tyrangiel

Americans have always loved their dogs, but their fixation on treating them like humans is getting a little out of hand. People are cooking for their dogs, sending them to summer camp and treating their illnesses with pacemakers and wheelchairs. Coming next month at Bloomingdale's: Bark Avenue, a dogcentric boutique that will sell designer beds, perfumes and clothes. That's not all:

DOGMA Artist Stephen Huneck has built a canine chapel in Vermont, a sacred space for those who have loved and lost dogs. Open to the public.

BOW-LINGUAL Just introduced in Japan, this pager-like device translates dog noises into emotions so you can read Fido's mind. Arf!

PAMPERING While dog spas are thriving and command $150 for a Day of Beauty (including hot-oil bath), the supply of grooming and health products is booming. There are doggie breath mints, body wipes, perfumes and toothpaste. A new book, Dog Speak, instructs owners in massage.

DOGS ALLOWED The Loews Hotel chain not only welcomes pets at no extra charge but also provides a complimentary bowl and mat. Room-service menu includes Evian and $19 Bow Wow Tenderloin of Beef.