Ruff Times for Rent-a-Dog

Is that a Schnauzer or a Shih Tzu? How should I know, it's a rental.

While American society has held the line on prostitution (at least in most jurisdictions) man can rent his own best friend at a weekend day rate of $39.95. FlexPetz is open in New York, San Diego, Los Angeles and now, Boston, despite some critics.

"Dogs need stability in their lives, they need a long-term commitment, and they need a secure environment," trainer Ray McSoley told the Boston Globe, who called the company a "four-legged escort service."

While rent-a-pet services are relatively new in the United States, Tokyo's Puppy the World leases lassies on a leash by the hour.

FlexPetz charges a $300 initiation fee, and screens applicants to weed out the sick pups. Many of their customers are overworked professionals just seeking someone to share a good snausage.

Photo © FlexPetz