New Bethesda Apartment Pitches New Definition Of Pet-Friendly

The completed Gallery of Bethesda in early 2014 (file photo)In the competition for tenants in Bethesda’s growing apartment market, one new building is rolling out the red carpet for the four-legged demographic.

The Gallery of Bethesda, the 17-story, 235-unit building that opened earlier this year on Rugby Avenue, is hosting a grand opening of its pet spa and dog park on Saturday, May 3.

The Humane Society, a professional dog trainer, owner of a pet fitness business, pet grooming company and local restaurant will all be involved with the event, meant to show The Gallery is a “highly pet-friendly” property, according to assistant property manager Andrew Davies.

“This is something the community has not seen in any new development in Bethesda,” Davies said.

Vantage Management, the property manager for The Gallery, is trying to bring a little bit more to the definition of a pet-friendly rental. Davies said the building, from developer Donohoe Companies, has slip-proof stairwells designed to accommodate dog paws and a pet spa in-house.

When the building fills up, Davies said the property manager will start scheduling appointments. It’s equipped with a turbo blowdryer.

Davies said the building is also looking to incorporate a dog run — common on the rooftops of newer apartment buildings around the country — so that tenants won’t have to take the elevator downstairs and back each time they need to take their pet out for a quick walk.

The event on May 3 will run from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The Humane Society will install free tracking microchips to all dogs and cats and host a pet adoption. Professional dog trainer Heather Stein will conduct a free, one-hour obedience class. Fido Fitness & Play will do a free exercise class for pets. There will be free grooming and nearby Mia’s Pizza will provide food.

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