If you’re a proud dog owner, you know that having a pet comes with fun and love. However, it also comes with some challenges, especially if you plan on moving to a big city or getting your first pup. If you want to find out which factors contribute to a dog-friendly city, what you can do to help, and what are the most dog-friendly cities in the country, keep on reading!
What makes a dog-friendly city?
Let’s start from a quick recap of aspects that can make it or break it for all the dog lovers. These include, but are not limited to, shelters, homes, parks, and businesses.
Shelters should be warm, safe, and encouraging adoptions. What’s more, cities should have community programs that humanely address the overpopulation of dogs, as well as partnerships with individuals and organizations working to prevent homelessness.
When it comes to homes, finding a landlord who’s willing to accept pets can be a daunting task. That’s one of the reasons why many dogs end up homeless and abandoned. Dog-friendly cities should enable pet ownership and have open housing policies.
Moving on to parks, dog-friendly cities create a safe environment for dogs and their owners. Not only should dogs have parks and walking trails, but also the authorities should not forget about pet waste stations. Green spaces and dog-friendly amenities are always appreciated, especially when you can relax with your dog in an active, healthy, and clean way.
So, what about dog-friendly businesses? Those that make it easy for pet owners also make them feel welcome. Dog-friendly businesses can easily communicate their pet policy by putting stickers in the windows. What’s more, cities with pet-friendly businesses, including stores and restaurants, attract both tourists and locals alike, who feel welcome and included in communities’ social life.
What can you do to help?
In case you like the more hands-on approach, there are things you can do to make your city more dog-friendly. To begin with, you can donate dog food and other supplies to your local animal shelter. Petfoodreviews.online looks at Acana for dogs, and you can find other reviews that may help make your decision about what kind of dog food you could buy for your four-legged friend and those in need. If you have time, you can volunteer at your local shelter. What’s more, you can adopt a dog rather than buy it from a breeder or run a foster home. If you have an allergy and you think you’ll never find hypoallergenic dogs for adoption, you may be surprised! Additionally, you can get involved in pet-related activities and events in your community. Acting together with other like-minded people can result in something incredible for your city and the dogs living there.
Now, let’s move on to our list of the most dog-friendly cities in the US!
Seattle, Washington
In Seattle, one of the most dog-friendly cities in the US, there are reportedly more dogs than children. Tourists and locals alike can visit dog-friendly hotels and restaurants, take their four-legged friends on Elliot Bay cruise, or even use dog-friendly kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals. What’s more, if you see posters or ads in the gist of “dog gone Seattle,” you can be almost sure the owners are going to find their lost pet. King County animal shelter, as well as other animal shelters in the area, offer great conditions for lost or abandoned animals. What’s more, they have clear and friendly pet adoption procedures that can help you find your friend in no time.
San Diego, California
San Diego may be one of the most unique cities on our list. It’s probably the only place where you can take your dog surfing. Restaurants are very dog-friendly, with many of them offering patios where pups can sit with their owners. If you haven’t had enough fun, go to a dog park or visit a dog boutique. What’s more, there are numerous dog-themed events in San Diego, including the annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon, or Paw-micon, the canine equivalent of San Diego’s Comic-Con.
Portland, Oregon
Portland has the most dog parks per capita in the country – 33! The city also has its own social network for dog lovers. You’ll be able to attend plenty of meetups for fans of a specific breed or even take part in the original Fences for Fido Fence Building Event. Additionally, if you like going to pubs, you can take your dog with you.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is considered to be extremely dog-friendly for a number of reasons. Let’s start by pointing out that dogs on a walk can stop and drink, as most bars and restaurants leave big water bowls outside. What’s more, you and your dog will never get bored in the city because there are up to 20 off-leash dog parks. Additionally, Montrose Dog Beach in Chicago is a famous location for dogs and their owners and boasts stellar reviews from those who have been there.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is known for being dog-friendly mainly because of many beautiful parks and walking trails. Not only can you walk your dog, but also you can learn about the city and do a little sightseeing. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can take your pup on a subway ride during off-peak hours or on a Boston Harbor cruise. Moreover, some local bars offer “Yappy Hours” for the patrons to bring their dogs and grab a pint. To top it all off, there are plenty of dog-friendly apartments and neighborhoods, so you won’t have to worry about moving in with your furry friend.
The bottom line
Being a dog owner is fun, and it’s an experience like none other. However, it also requires tons of responsibility and commitment. Whether you own a dog or you want to have one (or more!) in the future, make sure you get yourself familiar with all the requirements and potential limitations. However, if you do your research thoroughly and you’re attentive to your dog’s needs, you’ll gain an amazing friend and companion.