54 BEST OF MONTEREY COUNTY® 2023 mcweekly.com/bestof shopping and services Dr. Dau emphasizes good communication with her clients to get to the root of their pets’ issues and develop a specialized treatment plan. The P.G. native returned to town in 2010 and in 2020 took over the practice founded in 1959, bringing her lifelong love of dogs and cats to the practice, along with a background in marine science. She’s able to treat exotic pets and has a strong interest in feline medicine. Her clients praise her for her compassion, kindness and ability to listen. As one client said in a written testimonial, “These are skills one cannot learn. They are gifts.” Best Dog Groomer Suds 'N Scissors 223 Crossroads Blvd., Carmel (831) 624-4697, sudsandscissorsinc.com John Steinbeck’s dog Charley would have wagged his short, fluffy tail while getting groomed at Suds ’N Scissors. The staff would know just how to clip and brush the standard poodle’s curly coat before heading out for more travels. It’s why readers keep voting Suds ’N Scissors the county’s Best Dog Groomer. They know their pups will receive careful, specialized treatment while under the care of thoughtful, professional staff, and come home looking as fluffy as ever. Best Pet Boutique Diggidy Dog Ocean Avenue and Monte Verde Street, Carmel (831) 625-1585, diggidydog.com In May 1936, John Steinbeck wrote that his dog Toby shred about half of the only copy of the manuscript for Of Mice and Men. “There was no other draft. I was pretty mad, but the poor little fellow may have been acting critically. I didn’t want to ruin a good dog for a manuscript I’m not sure is good at all,” he wrote. “I have promoted Toby-dog to be a lieutenant-colonel in charge of literature.” Even a good dog can do something we see as bad, but we’re still going to love them and surprise them with treats and toys. Diggidy Dog is the readers’ choice for where to find goodies, toys and outfits to spoil their pups—even if they eat our only copy of a bestselling novel. Best Local Pet Store Stone's Pet Shop 1122 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove, (831) 375-4471 13748 Center St., Carmel Valley, (831) 659-5317 stonespetshop.com “A dog…is a bond between strangers.” Steinbeck said that, and he knew firsthand—he had several dogs, including Charley, who he made famous by Best Tire Shop | Sullivan's Auto Service & Tire Pros
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