Happy DOG. Happy Home.
Let's face it. For those of us who have dogs keeping them happy becomes a priority. After all they really are a part of our family. They love us on our best days and our worst days unlike most humans. As dog lovers and owners ourselves we have learned a thing or two about keeping our pups happy.
Our Favorite Dog Parks
Orianna Hill Park: This one is a Northern Liberties staple. If you live in the area and have a dog you've probably been here and been welcomed by the always friendly folks who frequent the park. So there is a $50 annual membership fee suggested which to some could be considered a con but the great thing about this is that there is better accountability should something happen. Orianna is also community. http://oriannahill.org/
CONS - $50 annual membership fee suggested, it can get muddy as there's no grass.
PROS - $50 annual membership fee suggested, water, lots of mulch, well lit and lot's of trees which means shade!
TIP - bring your own bags as they tend to run out pretty fast. Also they host a yappy hour every Friday!
Image courtesy of SpiritNews.Org
Palmer Doggie Depot: Locals go nuts for this park in Fishtown. Even though it may not have all the amenities some of the other parks in the city have, neighborhood folks flock here. The recent addition of the double gate entrance has been a huge bonus as well.
Cons - No shade, no water, can get muddy depending on the weather.
Pros - Seating, double gate entrance, baggies available before they run out.
Tips - If the weather isn't great, be prepared for your dog to get very dirty and possibly need a bath. As always bring baggies and some water for your pup!
Image courtesy of PalmerDoggieDepot.com
Schuylkill River Dog Run: Located at 25th & Spruce, this can be a bit of a hike depending where you are but it's totally worth the trip plus it's right by the river so if you're into nice views you'll love it. There are literally two parks, one for small dogs and one for the big boys (and girls) which is a huge bonus if you're favorite friend happens to be a bullied or tends to get picked on.
http://www.phillyfido.org/
CONS - near a train, fake grass and no kids allowed.
PROS - dedicated space for little dogs and big dogs, water bowls and no kids allowed.
TIP - bring your own bags as they tend to run out pretty fast.
Image courtesy of Yelp.com
Seger Park: This amazing park is located at 11th and Lombard and has everything you could dream of for the entire family. There is a park for little kids, a park for bigger kids, a recreation center with classes, tennis courts and two dog parks in one. The actual dog park has benches and plenty of shade.
Cons - $50 annual membership
Pros - $50 annual membership, rope climbing area, swing and separate small dog area.
Tips - Bring bags in case they run out and keep an eye out for events they host on their Facebook page!
Image courtesy of SegerDogPark.com
And in case our favorite four dog parks in the area don't peak your interest, here are a few other local favorites...
Doggy Delicatessen
Just Dogs and Cats: This is quite the Rittenhouse treasure that specializes in all-natural, human-grade treats for your four legged friend. From fido friendly french fries to liberty bell shaped snacks and full size birthday cakes, this place has everything your furry friend's heart could want. 1700 Sansom St. http://www.jdgphilly.com/
Image courtesy of Yelp
Amelie's Bark Shop: Passyunk Ave. seems to have it all... some of the best restaurants in the city, boutique stores and even tons of bakeries. Amelie's isn't your typical bakery though... They bake their very our own line of treats using all natural ingredients. 1544 E Passyunk Ave. http://www.barkshopbakery.com/
Image courtesy of BarkShopBakery.com
Doggy Day Adventures
If you're looking to break up the routine and want to get a little adventurous with your four legged friend we've got two great spots for you to check out...
If you're feeling up for a nature filled outing, check out Wissahickon in Fairmount Park. You and your loved pets can enjoy some hiking or even swimming. Technically you need to keep your dog leashed at the park but everyone seems to ignore this rule. As you can see above, Bill Murray, is having quite a lot of fun exploring!
Image courtesy of our awesome Transaction Coordinator, Jess.
Now perhaps you're not the outdoorsy type or maybe the weather isn't ideal for exploring mother nature, whatever the case, we love Zoom Room. At Zoom Room they offer dog parties, playgroups, agility league and even doggy disco... Yes, that's a thing and it's amazing.