New Year, New Lara - Fit & Fabulous!

Yesterday Mike & Michelle Dougherty, owners of the posh Windsong Resort for Pets ("Best of San Diego, 2008" San Diego Magazine) in Escondido, invited Lara for a celebratory beauty makeover for the New Year. We didn't hesitate to take them up on their offer.

When we arrived at 9:30 a.m., the lobby area was packed. That made it even more special to think they wanted to pamper Lara when they were so busy.

Jessica Lynch (left) is the resort's head groomer and assistant manager. She has taken a genuine interest in Lara's rehabilitation, and almost enjoys spoiling Lara as much as Lara enjoys being spoiled.

Jessica began by giving Lara a strawberry milk bath to moisturize her skin.

"Lara's coat was thick and strong," she said. "With losing weight and her thyroid being under control, her skin has healed and is great condition."

After the bath, Jessica treated Lara to a pedicure and furmination which removes the undercoat, a process she's undergone before.

"She didn't need it very much this time because she's so healthy," Jessica added.
















Mike, who's an AKC-licensed judge at competitions including the Westminster Dog Show, was visibly impressed with Lara's condition.

"Unlike 'The Biggest Loser' on television, you have a real success," he said. "Some people would throw up their arms and say, 'It's a lost cause -- it's going to be what it's going to be.' Lara's dropped one-third of her body weight. Her life has been prolonged by 3 to 5 years."

Mike also admired Lara's new face.

"Now her jowl line has definition," he said. "Her muzzle and cheeks are also well defined."

Mike noted that Lara finally looks like the young dog she really is, only 3 years old.

Lara left Windsong walking on air.


The next stop was the off-leash dog trail between Mountain Vista and Encinitas Blvd. to meet up with her friends and show off her new look.

It's funny, normally Lara's a complete tomboy at the park, body-slamming and head-butting other dogs -- especially Dylan, the golden retriever in the video below with whom she shares a special fondness. You'll note there was none of that. This was a demure, ladylike Lara who was confident in her new body -- and lovin' that sexy, pink bandana.


Click to watch Lara parade her new look before friends at the dog park.