High Maintenance Bitch

Doesn't your little bitch deserve the best? After all, she's your best friend. She's there through thick and thin: break-ups, heartaches, new beaus, new jobs. So treat her royally for being your loyal companion and stop by the new High Maintenance Bitch store that caters to pampered pooches. Owner Jean Powell moved the shop from Lynwood and reopened in Wallingford this month.

Almost all items in the store are designed by High Maintenance Bitch, the doggie emporium created by locals Lori and Ryan Pacchiano. The creative duo has made everything from fancy feathered boas to magnetic rhinestone ear studs. Your little princess will beg for the fashionable coats, collars, "Cosmetics," accessories, carriers, toys and premium food.

KATHY SCHULTZ

As with any high-maintenance creature, most of the apparel doesn't come cheap. "Ruff Love" faux leather collars with rhinestones, spikes, special buckles and skull emblems are $75. The Seattle-made appliquéd terrycloth and fleece hoodies are $49. Faux fur stoles with one-of-a-kind brooches are $50. Juicy Couture pet carriers a la Paris Hilton are $295. The ultimate in doggie decadence is a custom-made miniature sofa or chaise lounge by a Los Angeles designer for $999. "They hold up to 200 pounds and lots of celebrities own them," says Powell. Reggie, her Maltese mix, loves his very own camouflage chaise lounge. For little luxuries, consider Candy Paws nail polish for $7 or Whiskara doggie glitter mascara for $16.

While you're there, pick up the new 2007 HMB calendar ($12.99) with 12 months of canines in over-the-top outfits. For tips to spoil your little bitch, get a copy of the highly entertaining and informative "High Maintenance Bitch" book by Lori and Ryan Pacchiano ($14.95, Sasquatch, April, 2006).

Copyright © The Seattle Times Company