As we embark upon the long dog days of summer, what better time is there to reconnect with man’s best friend? Columbus was recently voted the third healthiest city in the country for dogs (and cats) to live, so it’s fitting that the area boasts a surplus of tail-wagging activities to enjoy with your furry companion.
Parks
Alum Creek Dog Park, Lewis Center, www.alumcreekdogpark.com
Voted America’s “best dog beach” in 2007 by DogChannel.com, Alum Creek’s picturesque setting along the river provides your pooch with the perfect destination for romping in the waves without traveling to the coast. The beachfront park is sprawled across 4 acres along the Alum Creek Reservoir. The grounds also include two additional fenced in areas, a wash station and waste disposal bags.
Bark Park, near the Columbus Zoo, www.barkpark.org
Ten fenced-in acres, a pond, and an agility course stationed on the confines of a private home allow Fido to frolic in the Bark Park. It’s open each month during the first three Saturdays from May to October, from 10 a.m-4 p.m. Each Saturday features a different local animal welfare organization to donate to. The Bark Park has raised more than $950,000 for local rescue groups, and is the only dog park in the country established solely to raise funds for animal welfare. Membership fee is $150 and $5 each time you visit.
Bark Till Dark Park, Delaware, off of State Route 23, www.barktildarkdogpark.com
If you want to secure your dog’s rank among the high-tail elite, a Bark Till Dark Dog Park membership may be the way. Open year-round, seven days a week, this 6-acre, fenced-in plot provides the perfect social atmosphere for your canine companion. Times can even be reserved for doggy play dates. Annual membership costs $239 for seven day access.
Companion Club Dog Park, Delaware, www.columbusdogpark.com
All dogs go to heaven, and it’s probably similar to Companion Club Dog Park. With 11 plush, green acres of beautifully maintained grounds and a 2-acre swimming pond, your pooch may reach new levels of nirvana. The park is fully fenced-in and two mulch-lined wooded paths encompass the grounds. The membership fee for Companion Club Dog Park is $395 annually. Visitors are welcome to bring their dogs for a $25 one-day pass.
Bars
Need a bar companion? At these laissez-faire watering holes, your dog can be your wingman.
Gresso’s, German Village, www.gressos.com
Every Tuesday in April through September, dogs and their owners congregate at Gresso’s to share in the social atmosphere of one of Columbus’s premier patios. Dog treats and water bowls await the dogs, while food, cocktail specials and live music are available for their owners. Proceeds benefit The Humane Society.
The Lodge Bar, Arena District, www.thelodgebarcolumbus.com
Once a month, from May through August, The Lodge Bar hosts its “Dogs on the Deck” happy hour from 5-9 p.m. Water bowls and dog treats line the deck, and drink and food specials are available for their owners. Proceeds benefit the Ohio Pug Rescue, allowing you to party for a cause. Upcoming dates include July 11 and August 15.
Spas & Resorts
Humans aren’t the only species that enjoy a little luxury and pampering.
Animal Hospital of Polaris, www.animalhospitalofpolaris.com
Diamond-embellished French tip nails and organic silk dyes in a myriad of tints are among some of the luxurious treatments your dog can indulge in at the spa.
The brand new, $3-million facility opened in May and provides lavish spa treatments and state-of-the-art boarding, grooming and day care facilities, including exotic, vacation-themed suites.
Boutiques and Specialty Shops
Taking “do you want a treat?” to a new level …
Heidi’s Bakery, Columbus, www.heidisbakery.com
The idea for Heidi’s came when the owners’ 10-year-old dog, Heidi, was diagnosed with cancer, and they pursued the benefits of organic food over subjecting Heidi to chemotherapy treatment. All of the food is 100-percent organic, including carob-dipped pumpkin biscotti, Chloe’s carrot muffins and canine cake.
Moochie & Co, Easton, www.moochieandco.com
Getting ready for summer means one thing: finding the perfect swimsuit. Moochie & Co offers a wide assortment of accessories, collars, health and beauty products, apparel and swim suits. It also has an online community for pet lovers to share their stories.
Posh Pets, Short North, www.poshpetsboutique.com
How about a complete overhaul of your pet’s wardrobe? Posh Pets specializes in decadent accoutrements, such as jewel-encrusted skull and crossbones tees and “Bitches love me” tanks.
Tricks and Such
Get your dog to learn the tricks of the trade and your bond will be even more special.
ACME CANINE, Lewis Center, www.acmecanine.com
As with any relationship, communication is key. That's no different for you and your dog. Get your dog to "take" just by holding out the leash. Teach them to accept a new baby or pet into the family with behavior modificaiton training. Or, find your perfect canine match and help train your dog to be a well-mannered member of society.
Alexia Cameron is a contributing writer for CityScene.