Agency provides temporary dogs

New York -- A business operating on both coasts of the United States exploits the need for companionship by renting dogs.

Flexpetz, which began in San Diego, opened branches in New York and Los Angeles last year, The New York Times reports.

The agency gets its rental dogs from animal shelters and the ultimate goal is to find them permanent homes.

Renters are carefully screened and required to watch a one-hour video. They also pay $279.95 a month membership, including four one-day rentals, plus $45 a day for any rentals past that.

Chris Haddix, a graduate student in philosophy who runs the New York branch, said New Yorkers want small dogs. Big ones are popular on the West Coast.

"A lot of people out there are looking for companionship," he said.

New York newcomer Sarah Stevenson said meeting people is easier when she is walking Oliver, a tiny cockapoo. Stacy Faulkner, a Flexpetz client in San Diego, said she rents a dog because her Rottweiler died two years ago and she's not ready to commit to a new pet.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.