Category Archives: Pets

Fido Vs. Fluffy: What’s Your Preference?

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In the U.S., there are more than 78 million dogs and 86 million cats as pets. Thirty-nine percent of households own at least one dog, and 33 percent of households own at least one cat. Just like there are differences between these two common household pets, lots of differences separate dog people and cat people. Typically, the population of male dog people is higher, and there are more female cat people. A dog person is 50 percent more likely to be conservative, whereas cat people tend to skew liberal. Dog people are more likely to be students, but cat people are 17 percent more likely to have completed a graduate degree. Cat people are 29 percent more likely to live in the city, where dog people are 30 percent more likely to live in a rural area.

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Top Five Cities to Visit with Your Pet

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Fido loves to travel just as much as you do, so check out these great pet-friendly cities.

If you’re a pet owner, you know that some of the most rewarding experiences can be had when you travel with your pet. So read on to discover our list of the top five cities to visit with your pet.

 

Seattle

If you and your pet love the outdoors and historical points of interest, you’ll love knowing that Seattle is vibrant and full of things to do for pets and their owners. And this city’s residents have a devoted love for animals, making it one of the most pet-friendly cities in the United States

 

What to Do: For a quaint neighborhood vibe, take your dog to beautiful Green Lake, where you can stroll around an expansive lake in the heart of one of Seattle’s most charming and quiet neighborhoods. For a beautiful view, head out to Discovery Park, which is situated on Magnolia Bluff and offers spectacular views of the Puget Sound. You might even be treated to some wildlife sightings, as the neighboring waters and forests are home to harbor seals, California sea lions and Townsend’s chipmunks. If you’re hungry, chow down on some good eats at Norm’s Eatery and Ale House on 36th St., a laid-back pub that was named after a dog and welcomes pets.

 

Where to Stay: The Pensione Nichols Bed and Breakfast on 1st Ave. in downtown Seattle is one of the most pet-friendly accommodations in the city, as dogs and cats of all sizes are welcome to stay.

 

San Francisco

While it’s true that San Francisco was a revolutionary city in the counterculture movement in the 1960s, its attitude toward pets and pet owners is also impressive. In fact, in an effort to discourage unethical puppy and kitten mills, the city’s Animal Control and Welfare Commission is looking to outlaw pet sales in Richmond County.

 

What to Do: San Francisco’s natural beauty and vibrant, laid-back vibe makes it a winner for travelers and their pets. The city is a veritable playground, so start off at Point Isabel Regional Shoreline, located in the nearby suburb of Richmond. This dog park is the largest one of its kind in the country, with more than 20 acres of pet-friendly lawns, leash-free beaches and pet-friendly restaurants like the Sit & Stay Café. And of course you’ll want to check out the city’s most famous landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. You and your pet are welcome to take a stroll across this iconic piece of architecture. You and your four-legged friend can also hop on a cable car and take a tour of the city.

 

Where to Stay: While there are a ton of great hotels for you and your pup to hang your head, you’ll want to book a room at the Hotel Monaco on Geary Street near Union Square, which elevates the experience of a night’s stay. Both dogs and cats receive beds and toys in addition to specialized, in-room menus. You can also take part in the Guppy Love program, which loans you a complimentary goldfish to keep you company in your room.

 

Portland

It may surprise you, but Portland is more than just a hipster paradise. This jewel of the Pacific Northwest is also a laid-back, eclectic melting pot of different cultures and lifestyles and is very accepting of animal lovers.

 

What to Do: As one of the most pedestrian-friendly city, Portland has the most dog parks per capita in the country at 31, according to Forbes. If you happen to be in town in the fall, head on over to the pet-centric festival, Dogtoberfest, which is a dog-washing charity event that now features a street fair with live music and locally brewed beer. And speaking of beer, head to the Lucky Labrador Brewing Company, which is a great place for beer-loving folks and their pets. The craft brews have dog-inspired names and cater to all palates. If you need a pick-me-up, check out the Iron Mutt Coffee Company to get a caffeine fix while your pup enjoys a complimentary biscuit.

 

Where to Stay: There’s no shortage of pet-friendly hotels in this city, but downtown Portland’s Heathman Hotel really knows how to pamper your pet. Your pet will be treated to such perks as the “Bark of Sleep” pet bed menu and an exclusive walking tour of the city. Not only that, but all four-legged guests receive a complimentary physical examination voucher with their stay, redeemable at any Banfield Pet Hospital nationwide.

 

Austin

While “pet-friendly” might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Austin (“Live Music Capital of the World” or “Food Truck Central” might be up there), but this vibrant southwestern city in the Lone Star State is incredibly welcoming of your four-legged friends.

What to Do: Austin is known for its sunny, warm weather, so you’ll definitely want to spend some time outside. The city has 12 off-leash parks where dogs can run and play. If your pup gets a little too hot, let him cool off in the natural creek in Bull Creek District Park and Greenbelt on Lakewood Drive. If you visit Austin in the summer, you and your pooch can head to downtown’s Zilker Park and check out a concert or fun festival, or tour the city in a historic horse-drawn carriage, where your dog is welcome to ride, too. With all this fun, you’re bound to work up an appetite, so head on over to B.B. Rover’s Café and Pub, which offers covered outdoor seating and water bowls for thirsty pups.

Where to Stay: Stay in the heart of downtown and treat your pet to some southern hospitality at The Driskill. The “Pampered Pet Program” provides a comfortable pet bed and designer doggie dishes in your room, as well as bottled water and gourmet treats from the 1886 Café & Bakery. And when you’re ready to explore the town, the concierge desk can provide you with city maps that highlight pet-friendly areas, leashes and collars.

New York

According to PetTravel.com, there are more than 120,000 dogs living in the Big Apple. So, obviously, the city that never sleeps is well-equipped for travelers and the pets traveling with them. This big and bustling city has so much to do, from the shops to the subway, and your pet is invited along every step of the way.

 

What to Do: Obviously, you’ll want to start off at the heart of New York: Central Park. Here, your pup can run and play while you engage in some great people watching. For some pooch-specific fun, make the trek out to Long Meadow Dog Beach in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, where your dog can swim and have fun. Let Fido strut his stuff as you tour the city on the NYC Dog Walking Tour, which visits neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, Soho, Lower East Side and Little Italy. If you can afford it, treat your dog to a day of pampering, as New York has some of the best holistic pet stores, deluxe pet salons and posh doggie day care centers around.

 

Where to Stay: If you want to stay in the heart of it all, splurge on a room at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, smack dab in the hustle and bustle of the city. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure both you and your pet are comfortable.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/ktmoffitt

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How to Keep Your Pets Comfortable During a Move

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Moving with pets can be stressful, but here are a few tips to make it easier.

Whether you’re moving across the country or just down the street to a new apartment, one of the major factors you have to account for is your pet. Our pets are a special part of our families, and they require special attention and consideration when we move. Help your pets get adjusted quickly in their new environment and have a stress-free move with these tips.

Before the move
If you’re moving to a new state, contact the state’s veterinarian’s office and request the pet laws and regulations. Be sure to check your new city’s regulations, as some cities have breed-specific legislations. A couple of weeks before you move, visit your current veterinarian to request a copy of veterinary records, a rabies vaccination certificate and a health certificate. Additionally, ask your current vet if he or she knows of any good vets in your new city. Remember to put your pet’s collar on with proper identification and any required tags in case your pet gets lost. If possible, keep your pet’s routine normal, including feedings and walks.

Moving
Determine the best way to transport your pet. Moving is stressful enough, so if you plan on driving to your new home, it is probably in your pet’s best interest to be in the car with you on moving day. If you’re traveling with small pets, such as birds, guinea pigs, etc., keep them calm by placing a blanket over their cage. A cross-country move may require a stop, which includes an overnight stay at a hotel. Call ahead and find a hotel which allows pets. If you’re a fish enthusiast, stop by your local pet shop or aquarium and ask for special fish containers to safely move your fish.

To make your pet feel more comfortable on the car ride, bring plenty of treats and toys, as well as an old t-shirt with your scent on it. Keep your pet hydrated and fed by bringing two plastic containers for fresh water and food. Have a leash to walk your dog when you make stops on your car ride, and bring plenty of paper towels just in case your pet gets sick during your commute.

Your new home
Arriving at your new place means that your door will be open and shut all day. To prevent your pet from escaping, mark off one of the rooms as the pet room with items such as toys, bowls, treats and the pet’s bed. Even though your dog was well trained in your last home, keep Fido on his leash when going on walks so he can familiarize himself with his new surroundings. Dogs take a few days to adapt to their new home, whereas cats make take several days to a week. Keep in mind that although the transition was smooth, your pet can still be stressed and may misbehave. Clean up accidents immediately, and comfort your pets as much as possible.

It is important to stick with your routine when settling into your new home. Keep the water and food bowls in a similar spot as your old place, as well as your pet’s bed, and continue to feed and walk your pets at the same time.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/cmannphoto

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Chicago’s Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants

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Enjoy the warmer weather in Chicago by dining on a patio with Fido by your side.

With spring just around the corner in Chicago, you may find it’s becoming harder to leave your house without your dog by your side. Whether you’re craving a hot dog, a slice of pizza or just some cheese fries, here are a few of the best restaurants in Chicago for you and Fido.

Harry Caray’s Tavern
In between walking around the Navy Pier and riding the ferris wheel, stop by Harry Caray’s Tavern. It’s a hot spot for dog owners, as the tavern includes a licensed dog-friendly patio. While indulging in a juicy Holy Cow burger (make sure to add cheese and put it on a pretzel bun), your dog will get treated to a souvenir water bowl – and maybe a few butt scratches from neighboring burger enthusiasts.
Where: 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Sarah’s Pastries and Candies
Serving up more than just cupcakes, Sarah’s Pastries on Oak Street is a favorite among Chicago dessert enthusiasts. They offer up specialty cakes with fillings such as caramel crème brulee, peanut butter mousse and dulce de leche, and you can add crushed Oreos, raspberry jam or even strawberries. If you’re looking for something smaller, Sarah’s has French red velvet macarons, fudge brownies and toffee sugar cookies, as well as the popular black and white cupcake. For your canine companion, get a homemade dog treat that will satisfy your dog’s palate.
Where: 70 E. Oak St., Chicago, IL 60611

The Grill on the Alley
Since opening its doors in 2000, the Grill has been a staple on the Magnificent Mile with its sizzling steaks cooked to perfection and other first-rate fare. Stop in and dine outside with your pup, and he’ll get treated to dog biscuits and water while you cut into your prime rib. Even more popular is the breakfast menu at the Grill, which features traditional breakfast items, including bagels, French toast and pancakes, as well as omelets, cereals and eggs Benedict, served with a homemade hollandaise sauce. As the Grill is famous for its steaks, try the filet and eggs.
Where: 909 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant
Cheap beer and dog-friendly are two of the ways to describe this Wicker Park neighborhood hangout. It’s a quiet place where you can spend quality time with friends and meet new neighbors, or you can just grab a beer after a hectic day at work. If you’re there for food, start with the chili and then try the Italian beef for your meal. The Italian beef is peppery and cooked perfectly. Make it out to this tavern a few times, and you’ll be recognized like Norm in Cheers. Additionally, your dog will get treated to water, treats and lots of belly scratches.
Where: 1858 W. Wabansia Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

T Spot Sushi and Tea Bar
On a nice day, treat yourself to Chicago Fire roll while your four-legged friend basks in the sun. The Chicago Fire roll consists of spicy shrimp, super white tuna, red tobiko and unagi sauce. Pair it with the jasmine tea, and you – and your taste buds – won’t be disappointed. If you’re looking for something other than sushi rolls, try the pieces. A few of the favorites include sashimi and nigiri. If sushi isn’t your thing, T Spot also serves up various entrees, including tuna that is grilled and served in a ginger lime reduction sauce, as well as a white fish that is seared and topped with chutney sauce. Another great detail about T Spot is that it’s BYOB, so you can bring in your own wine to have with your rolls.
Where: 3925 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60613

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/mcdomx

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Best Pet Boutiques in Richmond

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Most pets and their two-legged companions don't have go to far to find great specialty pet boutiques in Richmond.

If you’re a dog owner, you know that your pet deserves only the best. Luckily, most pets and their two-legged companions don’t have to go far to find specialty groomers, bakeries and boutiques offering unique and high quality products that often rival offerings from luxury department stores. From tasty treats to custom collars, here are the best pet boutiques in Richmond.

Fin & Feather
As Richmond’s oldest locally owned pet boutique, Fin & Feather, which first opened its doors in 1959, has attracted a loyal following of the furry, feathered and four-legged variety that flocks to this charming store for its impressive selection of all things pet-related. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the store stocks a lot of specialty products that are hard to find at the larger chain stores. Check the store’s website regularly for coupons and special deals.
Where: 5208 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, VA 23228

Fido Park Avenue
Located in Short Pump, Richmond’s premier shopping district, Fido Park Avenue is a luxury dog boutique inspired by chic New York City specialty stores. From the latest designer clothes, collars and jewelry to the most technologically advanced toys and the tastiest treats, this cute boutique carries the highest quality products for your favorite pup. For especially diva dogs, you can even purchase a custom dog bed, choosing from a wide selection of fabrics and fashions so your pooch can sleep in style.
Where: 4027 Lauderdale Drive, Richmond, VA 23233

Ridge Dog Shop
The Ridge Dog Shop offers professional grooming, de-shedding and bathing services for dogs of all sizes, breeds and temperaments. Whether it’s an aesthetic or a practical choice, the professional groomers at the Ridge Dog Shop know how to give your pooch the cut of a lifetime, taking into account your opinions and your dog’s preferences.
Where: 1505 North Parham Road, Richmond, VA 23229

CritterTown Bathhouse
If you long for a clean pet but just don’t have the space to wash your pup or can’t deal with the mess, take your animal to the CritterTown Bathhouse, Richmond’s first self-service pet wash. The prices are reasonable, and if you don’t want to purchase the more expensive shampoos and soaps, you can bring your own. They even have doggie dryers, so you don’t have to worry about a wet dog jumping around in your car. CritterTown also sells premium pet foods and pet products like collars, leashes and harnesses, making it somewhat of a one-stop-shop experience.
Where: 2819 Hathaway Road, Richmond, VA 23225

Three Dog Bakery
Three Dog Bakery is on a mission to bake the world’s best dog biscuits and give dog lovers everywhere the opportunity to provide their pets with healthy, all-natural alternatives to additive-laden food and treats. And the treats are so good, you might even be tempted to sneak a taste. Favorites include the Boxer Brownies, a carob-flavored wheat flour cake topped with a delicious frosting made from honey, yogurt and buttermilk, and the Bulldog Bar, a large peanut butter biscuit dipped in carob and filled with frosting.
Where: 9200 Stony Point Parkway #152A, Richmond, VA 23220

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Yuri_Arcurs

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Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Boston

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Boston has many great restaurants where Fido is welcome.

There are not many things better than sitting down to a nice meal at a fine restaurant, discovering an amazing cup of coffee at an area café or settling into a well-worn booth with an ice cold pint at your local watering hole. But if you’re a dog lover, it’s just not quite the same without your loveable four-legged friend. Fortunately, many restaurants, cafes and bars around the world are getting hip to the idea of opening up their doors to the dogs, and if you’re ever in the Boston area, here are a few places where your pooch is welcome to tag (or wag) along.

Blunch
It’s not difficult to figure out what Blunch specializes in. So if you and Fido have a hankering for a quick and hearty breakfast, brunch or lunch, Blunch has you covered. Offering gourmet sandwiches, soups and breakfast items at very reasonable prices, Blunch also welcomes your furry little friend and even provides complimentary dog biscuits to boot, so both you and your dog can have a treat.
Where: 59 E. Springfield St., Boston, MA 02118

Brendan Behan Pub
The Brendan Behan Pub is THE definition of a local pub. Independently owned and operated by some fine folks in the Jamaica Plains neighborhood of Boston, the pub features a great selection of local beers and an unpretentious staff and clientele. Even better, the bar is canine- (and food-) friendly. For a great night out, bring your dog and some takeout, as the pub doesn’t serve food but more than welcomes you to bring your own, pony up to the bar and let the good times roll.
Where: 378 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

South End Buttery
This quaint bakery nestled in Boston’s trendy South End neighborhood is one of the most dog-friendly establishments in Beantown, named as Boston’s Best Pet-Friendly Restaurant by Tails magazine in 2010 and 2011. Owner Richard Gordon is a dog lover through and through (he has three), so canines are definitely taken care of here, with fresh dog biscuits from Polka Dog Bakery. You’ll find paintings and photographs of dogs covering the walls, and four of the bakery’s signature cupcakes are named after well-loved area dogs. The bakery even donates a portion of their cupcake sales to local animal rescue causes.
Where: 314 Shawmut Ave., Boston, MA 02118

J.P. Licks
Known as one of the best places in Boston to get a cup or cone of delicious homemade ice cream, J.P. Licks is the perfect place for dogs and their two-legged friends to kick back and enjoy each other’s company no matter what the season. You’ll love unique flavors like Red Velvet Cake Batter, Pralines & Crème and Chocolate Raspberry and your pup will love chowing down on their signature canine offering, “Cow Paws,” a frosty treat of light peanut butter and honey flavored sorbet topped off with a dog biscuit, made with all natural and pet-friendly ingredients.
Where: Several locations throughout Boston

Wired Puppy
Named as Boston magazine’s Best Coffee Shop in 2010, Wired Puppy brews up organic and fair trade specialty coffees and teas with quirky, canine-themed names such as “Sweet Puppy Love” and “Hair of the Dog” and offers delicious pastries in a quirky, comfortable environment. And the best part is that dogs are welcomed inside, the only café in Boston to do so.
Where: 250 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116

Photo credit: iStockphoto/SashaFoxWalters

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Best Pet-Friendly Festivals Nationwide

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Some of the best festivals in the nation are also pet-friendly.

If you’re a festival-goer but also a pet lover, chances are you’ve been disappointed in the past with the number of events that unfortunately aren’t okay with man’s best friend joining in the festivities. The good news is that you no longer have to choose between your two loves. Read on to find out more about some of the best pet-friendly festivals in the nation.

Do Dah Day
Founded in 1979 by a small group of fun-loving friends, Do Dah Day is one of Birmingham’s oldest and best-loved events, drawing people from all over the United States to the city’s historic Highland Avenue parks of Rhodes and Caldwell in May. What started out as a simple party has grown into an all-out music festival enjoyed by pet lovers and their four-legged friends. One of the festival’s best events is the parade, which offers prizes in categories such as Best Pet/Owner Look-Alike, Best Dressed Pet and Ugliest Pet (all in good fun, of course).
Details: May 19, 2012, Rhodes and Caldwell Parks, 2730 Highland Ave. S, Birmingham, Ala. 35205

West Fest
In addition to being one of Chicago’s most eclectic, cutting edge street fairs, West Fest is also one of the most pet-friendly festivals in the Windy City. You’ll find delicious local food, high quality live music, diverse vendors and booths and a fun, hip vibe at West Fest, but it’s Pet Fest, the “fest within a fest” dedicated to pets that really makes this festival stand out. From pet product vendors to bathing pools and a number of great pet games for charity, West Fest is the place to be in Chicago for pet lovers.
Details: July 7-8, 2012, 1800 W. Chicago, Chicago, Ill. 60622

Dog Day Festival
Nashville’s Dog Day Festival takes puppy love to new heights every September at Centennial Park. An all-day event benefiting the Nashville Humane Association, the Dog Day Festival kicks off with the Music City Mutt Strutt dog walk fundraiser. The event also features dog training classes, dog adoptions, contests with wacky awards such as “Waggliest Tail” and “Best Bark,” doggie treat samples and craft time, live music and so much more.
Details: September 2012, Centennial Park, 2500 West End Ave., Nashville, Tenn.

Aloha Pet Festival
If you ever find yourself on the island paradise of Hawaii, make no bones about stopping by the Aloha Pet Festival in Honolulu. Talented pooches can try their hand (or paws) at the pet costume and trick contests. And to end a perfect day, treat your canine companion to delicious delicacies like pet shave ice and doggie donburi while you munch on offerings from over 13 food trucks and vendors at the aptly named Bow Wow Brunch.
Details: October 2012, Kaka’ako Makai Park, 325 Pakanu St., Honolulu, Hawaii 96822

Woofstock Dog Festival
When the Woofstock Dog Festival first opened its doors in 2006, its founders wanted to create an event catered to the dog lovers in the Roanoke area, creating a super fun, family-friendly festival that attendees can freely bring dogs to. Now, just a few years later, the festival has grown to be one of the best-loved events in the area, boasting live bands, food and drink, raffles, prizes, vendors games and more each June.
Details: June 2, 2012, Elmwood Park, 706 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke, Va. 24011

Muttzanita
Oregon’s coastal town of Manzanita comes alive with furry critters in August with the Muttzanita Festival, a pet-centric charity celebration that goes to benefit United Paws of Tillamook, a local volunteer organization focusing on spaying, neutering and adoption. The canine fun never ends at Muttzanita, where dogs are treated to massages, “pawdicures” and other spa treatments, and can be featured in the hilarious pet fashion and talent shows. And just for laughs, dogs can participate in fun games like musical chairs and fetch.
Details: August 2012, 144 Laneda Ave., Manzanita, Ore. 97130

Photo credit: iStockphoto/bddigitalimages

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Let Fido Run Free at Durham Dog Parks

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Durham dog parks are great places to let Fido socialize and exercise.

There are many ways you can show your dog you love him. From bacon-wrapped treats to some extra cheese in his bowl, and from that brand new toy to a new, warm blanket to keep him warm in the cold Durham winter months, you can also show Fido you love him by keeping him healthy and active, which could include daily walks around the neighborhood or trips to the dog park. In Durham, there are several off-leash dog parks that you and your dog can enjoy. Remember to register your dog, follow the rules and regulations, bring extra baggies and have fun. Here are a few of the best pet parks in and around Durham.

Piney Wood Park
Located in the Woodlake neighborhood, this dog park is a favorite among Durham dog owners. Dogs have lots of space to play in this 3-acre park, including separate areas for larger dogs, smaller dogs and puppies, as well as a small training area for owners to work on obedience with their dogs. Piney Wood Park features plenty of benches, including some under the shade so dog owners can stay cool while Fido makes new friends. The water fountain is a hit with the dogs, and your dog can frolic through plenty of grass.
Location: 5999 Woodlake Drive, Durham, NC 27713

Downtown Durham Dog Park
This is a much smaller neighborhood park, located at Roxboro and Elliott streets. There are separate areas for large and small dogs and benches located throughout the park. Downtown Durham Dog Park is maintained by the local neighborhood, and they ask you to remember to pick up all trash when leaving the park.
Location: 422 N. Roxboro St., Durham, NC 27701

Homestead Park
Located just outside of Durham in Chapel Hill, Homestead Park is the ideal park to take your dog out. The open space is loved by the dogs, as it allows them plenty of running space. Additionally, owners can stay cool in shaded areas, and dogs love to play in the rocks, bushes and trees throughout the park. Similar to other dog parks in the area, there are two sections – one for small dogs and one for larger dogs, and plenty of water is available. Additionally, no membership fee is required at this park.
Location: 100 Northern Park Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Northgate Dog Park
One of the best parts about Northgate Dog Park is the amount of regulars. They are friendly and enthusiastic about their dogs, as well as other dog park goers. Once you start going here regularly, you’ll see familiar faces, and your dogs will meet new friends quickly. The park itself is neat, as it is an old baseball field converted into a dog park. There are plenty of places to sit, and there is a lot of room for Fido to roam. The park provides plenty of water for the dogs to share, and there are bags for clean-up throughout. For smaller dogs or shy dogs, there’s a separate area to play.
Location: 400 W. Lavender Ave., Durham, NC 27704

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/happyboarder

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Best Dog Parks in Portland

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Let your large or small dog roam free at Portland-area dog parks.

Some dogs, such as border collies and Jack Russell terriers, make great pets but require daily “runs” to rid them of what can only be described as excessive energy. If you live in an apartment community or have a small backyard, you may need to exercise your lively dog at a nearby dog park. Fortunately, dog parks are plentiful in Portland, a city known for its local culture and miles of green space. See below for our picks for the best in the area.

Chimney Park

What: This five-acre, fenced-in park is less crowded in the middle of the week, if you want an opportunity for your pup to burn off a lot of energy in a wide-open space. Chimney Park is well maintained and general clean, though it is nearly 20 minutes out of the city. Make sure you bring water along for your dog, as there are bowls to pour it in but no water source.

Where: 9360 N. Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97255

Arbor Lodge Park

What: If you take your dog to Arbor Lodge Park and happen to be caught in a sudden downpour or spring storm, you’re in luck, as the many trees provide both shade and rain protection. This off-leash dog park can become quite crowded when the weather is great, but the crowds generally make park-goers feel safe, even at night.

Where: N Bryant St. & N Delaware Ave., Portland, OR 97217

Wallace Park

What: Mostly a neighborhood park, Wallace Park also has a fenced, off-leash dog park with bark chips and lots of trees for shade.  Bring your own bags and water, as this park does not provide them.

Where: NW 25th Ave. & Raleigh St., Portland, OR 97210

Woodstock Park

What: You can typically hear live music while your dog roams free at this open, off-leash area. Dog potty bags are available sometimes, but it’s best to bring your own, as well as water.  Local musicians frequently practice in the area, so if your dog is spooked by spontaneous sounds, this park may not be for you, but if you want to hear acoustic tunes while your dog runs off energy, you will love Woodstock Park.

Where: SE 47th Ave. & Steele St., Portland, OR 97206

Normandale Park

What: Large and small dogs can roam separately at Normandale Park, which has bark chips and sand as opposed to grass and dirt, so dogs come back less muddy. Big dogs have enough room to “go deep” when fetching, and small dog meet-up groups happen frequently at the park. However, you might want to bring a bag to put poop bags in, as trash cans are frequently full in this park.

Where: NE 57th Ave. & Halsey St., Portland, OR 97255

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/Ljupco

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What to Do Before and After You Bring Your New Pet Home

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Two puppies in trouble

Prevent new-pet disasters by preparing your home first.

Congratulations on deciding to adopt a new pet! Bringing a new pet into your home is both a challenging and rewarding experience that can be made easier if you prepare yourself first for what to expect.

Now that you’ve picked out your pet, whether it’s a dog or cat, and you’ve made the appointment to pick him up, arm yourself with knowledge of what to do before and after so you’ll become the best pet parent ever.

Before
Decide where your pet will live in your space. Will he be able to run all over the house right away or need some potty-training time in the tiled bathroom or laundry room first? If you have roommates, make sure they know you will soon bring home a new furry flatmate.

Then see your space from your new pet’s point of view. Crawl around on the floor to see what your new pet may get into. Watch out for:

  • Electrical cords and wires
  • Shoes not intended to be toys
  • Houseplants
  • Trash cans and recycling bins
  • Cleaning supplies and chemicals
  • Pools or water sources outdoors

Ensure a dog does not have access to certain harmful foods, like chocolate.

Next, purchase your new pet’s necessary supplies. For any pet, this includes items like:

  • Food and water bowls
  • Collars and identification tags
  • Pet beds
  • Safe toys
  • Flea, tick and worm medications appropriate for your pet’s breed, size, age and health condition

For dogs, you’ll also need baby gates to keep them out of off-limits rooms and staircases, a crate for nighttime (for puppies) and a leash.

For cats, you’ll need a litter box, scratching post or two, supply of cat litter and litter scooper.

Set everything up before your pet walks in the door, and decide which vet you’ll use nearby in case there’s an emergency.

After
Now it’s time to bring home your pet and introduce him to his new environment – your home.

Try to pick up your pet in the morning on a weekend so he has a whole day to adjust to his new surroundings before bedtime, or schedule to bring him home when you have vacation time. Let him explore and smell his new surroundings – if you’re bringing home a puppy, make sure you give him a chance to go to the bathroom outside first.

Understand that your new pet will be a little nervous about living in a new environment, especially if he has just come from a kennel. If you have other pets already, you may need to introduce them to each other in a neutral environment – such as a family member’s house or park – so they won’t feel territorial. Cats may require a period of hissing at each other before they feel comfortable. Supervise the old pet and new pet for at least a week so you can be confident they’ll get along.

Be careful not to give your pet anything to play with except his designated toys. You don’t want him thinking that all socks, shoelaces or neckties are up for grabs.

Set boundaries from the beginning so your pet knows your limits, such as putting your dog in his crate at night – in a room other than your bedroom. Reinforce good behavior with treats and a positive tone. Try to keep as cool as possible, as accidents are bound to happen. Above all, enjoy your new pet!

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/dageldog