“Carol Gran will take other people’s dogs to Double Bluff as part of her new Dog’s Day Out business.Dogs that spend tedious hours home alone waiting for their master’s return can now have some fun, companionship and travel during the daytime.South Whidbey resident Carol Gran has just launched her new business, Dog’s Day Out, after months of research and preparation.I spent a lot of time and money, said the peppy Gran. Other people offer dog sitting, where they go to the dog owner’s house, but Gran decided to expand upon that idea and take the dog elsewhere for fun and exercise, if that’s what the owner wants. A long daily romp in the park or on the beach will help with behavior problems which are typically the result of boredom and separation anxiety, she said.The expense includes a new mini-van to drive up to six four-legged clients around in. Dog’s Day Out will pick up a dog, exercise him for 30 to 40 minutes and then deliver him back home. The cost for a single dog to an off-leash area, such as Double Bluff, is $20 per outing, which includes fresh water, a towel-down and healthy treat if permitted by the owner. There are discounts for two or more dogs from the same household. Off-leash walking is a bit less, and regular pet sitting is also offered.Gran expressed confidence that there’s a market on South Whidbey for her services. At first I thought I’d have to move to the other side to do it, but even here you can’t let your dog run wild, she said. They’re stuck in the house all day. And those can be long days considering the time it takes to commute by ferry. Senior citizens, the disabled and others who can’t properly exercise their dogs are also likely to be interested.Besides acquiring a business license, bonding and joining Pet Sitters International, Gran has taken a course in canine first aid. She’s developed a client contract including veterinarian authorization and she’s well versed in canine nutrition.I have done a lot of work on this, she said, explaining the trials of starting her first business venture. Who would have thought a little dog business would take this much time?But thanks to all that time and expense, Gran is confident that she can handle anything now that Dog’s Day Out is ready for customers. For information call 321-4190 or e-mail Dog’s Day Out. “