Cincinnati dogs have new hangout

CINCINNATI, June 17 (UPI) -- Downtown Cincinnati boasts a new spot for dogs to romp, play and undergo training during the day while their owners are at work.

Mic Foster opened the Pet Athletic Club in September 2006 and said he's seen a steady boom in business, The Cincinnati Enquirer reported Sunday.

Foster, 27, said he saw a need for such a facility in downtown Cincinnati. Foster has reportedly worked with dogs for more than nine years.

The Pet Athletic Club has more than 10,000 square feet for dogs of all kinds to play, as well as be groomed and trained, the Enquirer said.

"Most of the discipline problems that people have with their dogs is simply a matter of not enough exercise," said Foster. "Problems such as barking, biting and chewing all result from lack of stimulation."

Foster said that since he has a high dog-to-trainer ratio, he generally charges more than similar facilities in the area. But, he said, he believes his day care offers a more personal relationship among dogs, trainers and clients.