Nicknamed the “Star City,” Lafayette, Ind. is the county seat of Tippecanoe County, located a mere 63 miles northwest of the capital city of Indianapolis. Just across the Wabash River lies West Lafayette, home to Purdue University. Together, these two cities make up the greater Lafayette area, where residents can take advantage of the charms of small town living while still taking advantage of big city amenities. Both cities are surprisingly pet-friendly, so if you’ve just moved to apartments in Lafayette with your furry friend or are looking for new places to explore with Fido, here’s our list of the top pet-friendly places in Lafayette and West Lafayette.
Restaurant – Copper Dog Café
With a name like the Copper Dog Café, it’s no surprise that this quaint and quirky establishment caters to patrons of the four-legged variety. Located in the heart of historic downtown Lafayette, the Copper Dog Café places a heavy emphasis on vegetarian cuisine, using fresh, healthy ingredients in their offerings, which range from lighter fare like soups and sandwiches to entrees like grilled polenta. And of course, patrons are welcome to bring their dogs on the patio.
Where: 660 Main St., Lafayette, IN 47901
Store – Buckles Feed Depot & Pet Supply
Buckles Feed Depot & Pet Supply offers everything that your small and medium-sized animals need to be happy and healthy. They carry many brands you won’t see at larger chain pet stores, which means you’ll find high quality, name brand food for dogs and cats, as well as bedding, leashes, shampoo/conditioner, toys, treats and even bird seed. The staff is always helpful and knowledgeable, offering friendly advice to customers who aren’t sure where to begin.
Where: 220 S. 4th St., Lafayette, IN 47901
Park – Shamrock Park Dog Park
Officially opened in 2006, Shamrock Dog Park has been a favorite of furry critters in Lafayette, attracting dogs and their two-legged owners from as far away as Illinois. The park itself is a large fenced-in, off-leash dog area where well-behaved dogs and their owners can play, exercise and socialize in a safe and fun outdoor environment. There are two fenced-in areas for large and small dogs, and plenty of benches and shady areas for owners who just want to watch the fun.
Where: 115 Sanford St., Lafayette, IN 47905
Boarding – Pooch at Play
As West Lafayette’s newest doggie day care, Pooch at Play offers a fun, safe play place for dogs to socialize while their owners are at school, work or on extended trips. Pooch at Play also offers grooming services and training classes for pups to look and be their best.
Where: 2060 U.S. 52 W., West Lafayette, IN 47906
Grooming – Bark Avenue Dayspa
Bark Avenue Dayspa was opened in 2005 by Kerri Wagner, a resident of Lafayette for 20 years who graduated from the Animal Arts Academy in Carmel, Ind. as a Certified Pet Groomer/Stylist. She’s also certified in Pet First Aid by the American Red Cross and a member of the National Association of Dog Groomers. This cute and clean pet spa offers grooming services for dogs and cats, as well as other animals like birds, rabbits, chinchillas and ferrets. Or, treat your pet to a dead mineral mud treatment, or a blueberry facial with mini face massage.
Where: 4100 Britt Farm Drive, Lafayette, IN 47905
Photo credit: iStockphoto/choja

