Sometimes we all just need a day out – to explore new places, to alleviate boredom, to get some exercise or to meet up with friends. Our dogs deserve a day out once in a while too, don’t they? As long as your dog is well-behaved and trained, there is no reason why you can’t bring him out and about, or even set up doggie playdates with neighbors and friends.
Here are some ideas of places around the Sarasota area which cater to dogs, and will also give you the opportunity to have some fun with your furry family.
Is Your Dog Obedience Ready?
Any time you venture outside of their familiar environment, it is important that your dog is well behaved. They will encounter other animals, lots of strangers, and sights and smells which may seem irresistible. You don’t want your dog to be barking or growling at passers-by, being aggressive with other dogs, or sniffing at someone’s picnic lunch. So for their safety and your peace of mind, make sure that your canine is well trained, understands basic commands, and can be trusted in public.
Don’t forget! While many public places now have bags to pick up after your dog, many do not. Be prepared by bringing your own bags. If it is hot out, bring a water bowl for your pooch as well.
Bayfront / Island Park: This beautiful oasis at Main Street and Gulfstream in downtown Sarasota offers wide open grassy areas and a concrete looped pathway right along the water. The spot is a popular destination for humans and canines alike. Although dogs are technically supposed to be leashed, it is not uncommon for owners to let their dogs off-leash to play frisbee or play in the water (there are several small beach areas). Your dog will encounter many other pooches on any given day, so good manners are a must. Keep in mind there are also people on roller blades, bicycles and Segueways which will be sharing the same area, in case wheels are a challenge for your furry kids.
Downtown Sarasota: You don’t even have to get back in your car to take a stroll downtown from Island Park. Only two blocks away is Main Street proper, and dogs are allowed at many downtown restaurants. If you decide to leave the park and get something to eat, keep in mind that parking ay Island Park is free, but limited to 3 hours.
South Brouhard Beach Park: This Venice dog park allows dogs off-leash, and is one of the few places where dogs can play in the sand and surf of the Gulf of Mexico without worry. There are hundreds of dogs there on warmer days, so be sure of your dog’s manner and comfort level around all kinds of dogs. KEep in mind that not all humans are as aware of their dogs’ ability to be around other animals, so you will still have to keep a good eye on Fido. If you don’t want to travel all the way to Venice, you can visit Bayfront Park on Longboat Key, or the 17th Street Dog Park, located between Fruitville and University.
Doggie Daycare: Perhaps the safest place for your dog to interact with other pooches and run out all that pent-up energy is at Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training’s playcare program. Doggie playdates are supervised and watched over by skilled professionals, all dog lovers ourselves. If you want to give your dog some time to play and want to get errands done, our facility is the place to be.
From doggie playdates to obedience training classes, Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training offers everything you need to have a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted pet. If you live in the Sarasota, Bradenton, or Lakewood Ranch area, we would love for you to tour our facility and learn about what we offer.
