Love dogs? Then you Must. Love. Sacramento.
With its copious sunshine, abundant parks and rivers and plenty of dog-centric businesses, this town was designed for man (and woman’s) best friend. Whether you’re into long walks along the waterfront, playing fetch or just chilling with a beer and your pooch, we can’t think of a better place to raise your better, furrier half.
Read on for all the reasons why Sacramento is a top dog destination.
Park it here.
Sacramento does dog parks right, from the spacious greenways of Partner Park in the South Land Park neighborhood, to the dip-in-the-river fun of Sutter’s Landing Dog Park, this city lacks no shortage of places for your dog to play off-leash. One of the newest and coolest places is the Truitt Bark Park in Midtown. Flanked by a colorful “Bark Park” sign it makes for a canine oasis (slides for both big dogs and small!) in Sacramento’s hippest urban neighborhood.
Sacramento has an amazing new Bark Park! I don't have a dog, but it's so nice! pic.twitter.com/p0vYQqi8PP
— Lady De Luca (@foodiewinoSF) August 6, 2017
Make it a date.
Sacramento’s ever-growing foodie and craft beer scene is super dog-centric thanks to its abundance of outdoor patios. All those chill spots means your best friend will always have a place to keep you company as you nosh and sip.
Favorites include Track 7 Brewing Company in Curtis Park; the popular brewpub, located in an industrial district, has ample room for dogs to play and sleep, Likewise, Oak Park Brewing Company is a favorite for its spacious, sunny patio—plenty of room for your four-legged buddy to relax over a pint (or two). Or, head over to Ink Eats in Midtown, the popular eatery has been known to offer drink specials if you bring along your pooch. If you’re just looking for a place to enjoy an afternoon latte, visit Old Soul’s original location in Midtown. This destination coffee spot is located in a spacious alley, which means plenty of room for you and your beloved to enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
Introducing our new special Pups and Pints! $5 pints when you have your dog on the patio! Only at Ink #sacramento… https://t.co/wL26fCEFjW
— Ink Eats n Drinks (@inkeats) June 9, 2017
Day-trippin.
Sometimes you and your BFFF (Best Furry Friend Forever) need extra quality time together and Sacramento delivers big time on the bow wow wows. If you have a pooch on the smaller side then mosey on over to Old Town, Sacramento’s historic riverfront district, and enjoy a carriage ride over its cobbled streets. If even that feels like too much effort then it’s time to indulge in an afternoon of doggy spa treatments at the Sacramento Pet Resort & Spa, Here, your dog can get spiffed up with grooming services, socialize with other dogs or even (ahem) get schooled with a little training.
If you’re thinking, ‘what’s a spa day without libations?’ the Animal Den Pet Resort has the answer. In addition to the usual grooming and doggy day care services, the luxury pet center also hosts a weekend “den bar” during the summer, during which pups can do the doggy paddle while their human companions sip on beer and wine. Nice.
Drinks at the pet spa? Sacramento doggy day care applies for alcohol license https://t.co/poR35a6IEU
— The Sacramento Bee (@sacbee_news) May 23, 2017
Indulge.
Whether you’re in need of basic necessities (you know, food, collars, bed, etc) or a few treats a and toys, there are some good options for spending that hard-earned dollar. The cavernous Western Feed & Pet Supply is iconic among Sacramento pet owners for its full stock of quality chow, pet supplies and, yes, treats and toys. Plus, the staff is super helpful and knowledgeable.
Cali went to Western Feed & Pet Supply #bulldoglife #bulldog #WesternFeed&PetSupply pic.twitter.com/sMZ8goMhCS
— Cali (@LovCal) March 24, 2014
Or, if you’re looking for a more small-scale shopping experience, swing by Land Bark Pet Supplies. This compact store stocks an impressive array of speciality pet foods including raw items as well as pre-cooked frozen or dehydrated meals. Plus, toys galore, including many indie mom-and-pop brands. Finally, another choice option is the aptly named Pet Department Store, revered for its affordable pet toys, organic foods and supplies. Go ahead and stock up, your bestie deserves it.
