When it comes to dog care, Tel Aviv takes the biscuit

There will also be a doggie spa dispensing not only the usual shampoos and manicures but also simultaneous 10-minute massages for man and beast. And this being Tel Aviv, the world's second largest consumer of raw fish after Tokyo, there will be sushi for dogs. There will also be lecture sessions on doggie emotions as well as nutritional and homeopathy solutions for canine ills.

"The Tel Aviv-Yafo municipality sets dogs' welfare as a high priority," said city spokesperson Mira Marcus. "The city shelter has a no-kill policy, and homeless animals are treated 24/7 by the city's vets."

Moreover, she added, the city is committed to creating activities specially tailored to canine-lovers: "Last month, we put on a special screening of the movie The Secret Life of Pets for dogs and their owners."

Such events are not necessarily needed, one would think, given that the dog parks have special canine playground equipment and there are several dog-designated beaches. Pets are welcome at a wealth of cafés and bars and there is even a dog lounge at Ben Gurion Airport.

But, in the city that never sleeps, this is still not enough: "We are in the process of developing a members' card for dogs in the city," said Ms Marcus, referring to an upcoming online project. Presumably, its users will be required to accept cookies.