When picking a place to live, there are many things to consider. A big one on many folks' lists is man’s best friend. People want to know that the place they live will be a welcoming and happy environment for their dogs. It is crucial to know areas they are allowed to visit, and where you can truly let your pup play. Today we’ll look at the best parks, shops, and restaurants for dogs in Chittenden County.
Best Parks and Areas
There are countless spots throughout the state that will allow your dogs and give them space to run around, so we deemed it important to highlight a few very special areas to check out with your furry friend.
If you are either living or traveling to Vermont with your dog, you must plan a visit (or twenty) to Dog Mountain. Set on 150 acres of scenic mountain, this place is truly a magical realm. Your dog is welcome to let loose, since leashes are optional. Their official website says it best, “Dogs are free to run, play, swim, and (best of all) meet other dogs! Dogs are not just welcome here, they are cherished.” Cherishing can take place in the mountain’s dog chapel. It does not get much better than that!
When heading into Vermont’s most populated city, Burlington, it’s good to know the best places for your dog. While most parks in Burlington allow dogs, there are a few where your animal can truly thrive. The first place we’d recommend checking out is Starr Farm Park, located in the North End. Not only does Starr Farm have a designated dog park area, they have an agility course and little pool for your pup as well. They are open from sunup to sundown and offer community gardens, soccer fields, and a playground as well. Another great place to check out in Burlington is the Urban Reserve, otherwise known as the Waterfront Dog Park, right along the bike path. You can enjoy some great waterfront views and sunsets while your pup runs around leash free in the fenced in park area. It’s a great area to socialize your dog, as they are always filled with other pups ready to play.
The main street for shopping, food, and nightlife in Burlington is Church Street. The good news is you don’t have to worry about leaving your dog at home, as most stores along the street are dog friendly, as are several restaurants. The one thing you can expect from Church St is being stopped by friendly faces that want to say hi to your pup. Some of the top dog friendly restaurants in Burlington include Farmhouse, Sweetwaters, Spot on the Dock, and countless others. It is important to note that most restaurants on Church St will accommodate dogs during the Summer months in their outdoor seating areas. Options may vary in the Winter for indoor dining with your animal.
If you want to enjoy a nice beverage, but don’t want to leave your doggie at home, there are plenty of breweries in the area that are very dog friendly. Some of the best spots around are outside the immediate Burlington area, so you should not shy away from exploring and sipping on Vermont’s best beers and beverages with your dog.
Places to check out include Foam Brewers, Zero Gravity Brewery, Goodwater Brewery and Four Quarters Brewers. To see a full list of dog friendly breweries and more, check out Trips with Pets. If you prefer something sweeter, Shelburne Vineyards will pour you a glass of wine and a big cup of water for your four legged friends. Most of these locations include great outdoor seating areas to enjoy serene Summer/Fall weather in the Green Mountain State.
Where to Shop for Your Animals
Not only do we need to know where to bring our dogs, but where to shop for them. There are some great places throughout Vermont that will allow you to buy either unique treats and toys, or in bulk. If you’re needing to buy large quantities, check out Pet Food Warehouse, which has locations in South Burlington and Shelburne. They’ll have anything you need for dogs and cats alike from toys to treats to playpens. Say you’re looking for something a bit smaller, or for an animal to bring home, head over to The Pet Advantage in South Burlington. They have everything from toys, leashes, treats, and collars for your dog; plus a friendly and helpful staff there to help you pick out items and give you tips for whichever animal you are leaving with. The Pet Advantage sells rabbits, guinea pigs, mice, fish, birds, snakes, spiders, and more for those not wanting a dog or unable to have one at the moment. If you find yourself in the Montpelier area, The Quirky Pet is a must stop shop to find distinctive items for your animal.
All pet owners want to live in an area that will not only accommodate their animal, but allow them to thrive. When it comes to dog friendly people and places, we hope this post shows that Vermont has an ample supply of both. If you bring your dog to any of the above mentioned locations, send us a photo to get featured on our Facebook page! If you are in the market for a dog, cat, etc… check out some of the local rescue centers, like the Humane Society of Chittenden County and All Breeds Rescue!
If you’re in the market for a house with a big backyard for your dog, or fenced in area, email our buyer’s agent, Jamie Polli. Jamie just got a puppy of his own and can attest to the fact that a house is not a home without a dog! Email him at jamie@polliproperties.com.
