San José may be the political capital of Costa Rica, but the western suburb of Escazú seems like the dog capital of the nation. Dogs and their owners seem to be everywhere, as are pet stores and businesses offering pet services.

Why are pet dogs so prominent in Escazú? Victoria Jiménez of Cabaña Pets & Shop in Guachipelín de Escazú says, “There are three things needed to keep a pet healthy and happy: time, money and space. Escazú has all three. Plus a conscience to want to keep the dog neat and clean, healthy, smelling good and beautiful.”

Here are a few of the many pet stores and services offered in Escazú: