Dogs never like to be left out of the fun. Though separation anxiety plagues some pooches more than others, many pet parents prefer to avoid the drama altogether by planning pet-friendly vacations and short trips. Some world-traveling dog-owners like to take their pups with them on their journeys, and are constantly on the lookout for ways to engage their dogs. You’d be surprised how many events are geared to both dog and master. There are winter-lodge resorts that welcome puppy patrons, and action-packed dog-themed parades and competitions. Get some ideas from our list below of great trips and events to attend for dog-lovers.
1. Woofstock: Just as Woodstock became an iconic event in rock music history, Woofstock presents just as much fun for dog-owners and their furry companions. Head to Toronto in the sunny month of June to partake in pet-friend festivities with the 300,000 other visitors and their pets. Is your dog in search of a mate or a new friend? Sign them up for speed-dating, or biscuit-tasting mixers, and stupid-tricks contests where they can show off their silly skills for the canine crowd of onlookers. Not only will you get to enjoy a change of pace with a little Canadian getaway, but your dog will have a week from heaven!
2. Dog Activity Weekends Away: The northeastern Minnesota Gun Flint Wilderness Vacation Resort hosts annual “Woofta Uffta” weekends where pet-parents can travel with their fur-babies to a snuggly cabin in the woods. There the dogs are the honored guests, and can opt for canine massages, social playtimes, and even partake in the K9 Olympic competition for all visiting guests. Pet parents can adventure with their pooches on excursions in the woods, or go canoeing, hiking, dog sledding or ice fishing together depending on which season they go.
3. Lundehund Gathering, Norway: Have you ever dreamt of visiting the pristine Scandinavian country of Norway? Incorporate a stop to the city of Trondheim and attend the Lundehund Gathering where the prized dogs of Norway meet at an annual convention. After nearly going extinct some 75 years ago, these triple-jointed, 6-toed canines and their owners meet to celebrate the growth of the Lundehund breed. Dog-lovers traveling to Europe should consider attending the convention dedicated to these unique dogs.
4. Dog Beach in San Diego: The California coastline is always an appealing destination for an exciting vacation or dog-friendly trip. Guests that stay in Southern California’s beautiful city of San Diego can expect to enjoy long stretches of beautiful beach to explore with their canine companion. Dog Beach is a safe, no-leash-necessary zone, where your pooch can romp free and splash in the cool waves. You may even make some puppy-pals during your days on the beach.
5. New Jersey’s Boardwaddle: Pet-parents that have an affinity for the charm and allure of saggy-eyed Basset Hounds should prioritize visiting Ocean City in New Jersey during the Boardwaddle events. Here dogs compete in Basset Hound Olympics, wear funky costumes, and feast in a community picnic where food vendors and craft huts make for a memorable event. Intended to promote the adoption of rescued Basset Hounds, the BoardWaddle includes a lengthy parade of these darling dogs, and is a heartwarming festival for both dog-owners and their pets.
6. Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade: Instead of taking a beach-side vacation in the summer, consider traveling to New York City with your dog in the lovely month of October. Enjoy jogging with your pooch around Central Park, and picnicking with other city dogs. One of the main attractions for dog-lovers visiting the Big Apple in October, is the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade. This huge event draws hundreds of stunning canines ornately clad in creative costumes. The owners jump into the fun too, coordinating colors, themes and outfits with their pups at this popular autumn event.
7. SlobberFest, Toronto: Can your adorable dog drool with the best of them? Perhaps your Boxer, Mastiff or Bulldog is well-known for the soggy puddles he leaves behind; at the SlobberFest in Toronto he will be in good company. One contest at the festival determines which dogs will be crowned the Slobber Queen and King, while others hold competitions like the hot dog eating contest, canine ice cream eating contest, the best costume awards, best dog trick competitions, and finally an epic Slobber parade for all to enjoy! Dog-enthusiasts travel from all over to attend this fun and frivolous day of play.
