That Pet Blog That Pet Place Pet Blog

I want to take my dog everywhere! Let’s face it – he’s a part of the family. And the last thing I want to do is pay an expensive boarding company to keep my dog while I’m away. Why should I have all the fun? That’s why I put together this simple resource guide to help myself, and other pet owners, track down worthwhile places where the 4-legged family member can tag along too. As a bonus, I’ve added some personal thoughts on places around Lancaster County that I’ve found are GREAT for dogs!

Resources for finding pet friendly places

Bringfido.com is the ultimate resource to use when planning your vacation. They have anything, and everything you could possibly think of. From lodging to emergency pet care, it really has it all.
Dogfriendly.com has been around the longest, and is filled to the brim with awesome travel information. Feel like taking a pet friendly vacation abroad? Their database includes pet friendly travel destinations worldwide!
Petfriendlytravel.com not only shares tips for travel, but they include pet friendly vacation rentals by state. Yes, I would love a rental by the beach, Thank you!
Gopetfriendly.com has the best traveling tool called the Road Trip Planner. Just enter your departure and your destination, and check off the boxes that you are interested in. Like magic all of your pet friendly destinations are listed on your map. It’s awesome!
Petswelcome.com is the perfect site to use if you have a particular destination in mind. They list all of the top travel destinations, and you can even search by route. Stop at a pet friendly attraction on your way to your pet friendly destination.

If you are from Lancaster than you might already know of some of the pet friendly businesses that we have in the area. Visiting us for the first time? Don’t you worry your pretty little head, because I have your back.

Pet friendly places in Lancaster County

That Fish Place – That Pet Place

Pets of all walks of life are welcome in our 88,000 square foot store. You can shop until you drop, while your pet gets to socialize with other animals and our friendly staff.

Kitchen Kettle Village

Great place to bring the dog! They have places all over to put poop bags, and their entire place is accessible. Pick up some apple butter for yourself while you’re there, it’s the best!

Referenced from Kitchen Kettle’s Facebook page.

Amish House & Landis Valley Museum

The pups love the open air as much as I love the beautiful scenery. Dogs are allowed on the grounds of all of these two locations and most buildings. I always travel in a small group so that no one gets left out.

Beau’s Dream Dog Park at Buchanan Park

Referenced from Beau’s Dream Dog Park’s Facebook page

The park features a large dog play area, as well as a small dog play area. The park is chock–full of splash gardens, obstacles, and a tree that launches tennis balls! The dogs all love this park, and it breaks their hearts when it’s time to leave.

Long’s Park

This park has been a Lancaster County staple since the 1900’s. It’s beautiful from its head down to its toes. During the summer the fun never stops with their free summer concert series. That’s right, I said free summer concerts. The pups love it!

Lancaster is not shy of any walking trails, thanks in part to the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Enjoy the beautiful outdoors with your favorite furry friend, and be sure to check out some of the other local dog friendly parks along the way.

Referenced from Lancaster Brewing Company’s Facebook Page.

I don’t know about you, but all of this exercise is making me hungry! Believe it or not, there are plenty of outdoor cafés and eateries throughout Lancaster. Four54 Grill, Prince Street Café, Pig Iron Brewing Co, and Lancaster Brewing Company are just a few. If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, check out the newly renovated Splits & Giggles. With so many eateries that offer outdoor seating, there is no reason to dine without my pup.

After a long day of activities, we all need a good hard rest. Check into one of our local pet friendly hotels like Best Western Premier Eden Resort & Suites. Most of these hotels charge a small fee, but allow dogs of various sizes to stay. The best way to check on a specific hotel’s policy is to call and ask. The one I have listed here is not the only one. It’s still Always a great idea to call ahead first to determine their policies.

So what are you waiting for? Come to Lancaster and enjoy your stay.

It’s officially summer and often families will hit the road and enjoy some rest & relaxation. It’s becoming more and more common place to bring your pet along. Traveling with your dog can be rewarding and fun, and many hotels and campsites are becoming pet friendly, but what about during the car ride itself?

Traveling with your pets in the car can be stress-free if you follow some easy-to-follow safety guidelines:

1. Head for a pre-trip vet check. The vet will make sure that you pet is up to date on all required vaccinations and will give you a health certificate indicating your pet is healthy. Be sure to bring this certificate with you, along with vaccination records and microchip information.

2. Exercise your dog before you get in the car. Take a quick trip to the dog park or a nice long walk around the community park to make sure your pet has had a chance to empty his bladder and bowels and is nice and calm once you get on the road.

3. Make stops often so your dog can stretch out his legs and empty his bladder. He can’t answer you when call out “anyone need to use this rest stop?” so you should probably stop.

4. Use safety restraints in the car. In some states (ones that you might be travelling through) require dog seat belts, safety restraints or Dog car seats. If you’re using a kennel or carrier, make sure that it is securely strapped to the seat in case of an accident. Also, never let your pet sit in the front seat or on your lap. In the event the airbag would deploy your pet could be seriously injured or even killed. Lastly, do not strap your dog or cat carrier to the top of your car or in a trailer.  Read More »

Summer is swiftly approaching and many of our readers may be looking for dog-friendly vacation spots. Read on for a list (which is by no means is comprehensive) of pet friendly stops near Central PA. Whether you’re looking to spend a few days hiking the trails with your furry friend or just a day trip in the summer sun your family is bound to enjoy these fun summer destinations.

Cape Henlopen State Park – Located on the Delaware seashore you can take Fluffy for a dip on non-lifeguarded beaches as long she is kept on a leash 6 ft or shorter. No dogs are permitted on the lifeguarded beaches, sailboarding beaches or shorebird nesting areas during peak season (May 1- September 30). Read More »