Cleveland's Neighborhoods Offer Fun for Dogs

As you travel through Cleveland’s neighborhoods, it quickly becomes evident that city residents love to get out. And they love bringing their dogs with them. Everywhere you look, you notice happy dogs and dog owners enjoying the city landscape. This may not have always been the case, but our present-day Cleveland has young professionals, families and empty nesters out-and-about at every street corner. Beyond the obvious “best friend” companionship, dog life in Cleveland brings social connections to friends, neighbors and community. 

OUT IN THE OPEN

Like most people, Clevelanders are always seeking ways to get their steps in. Adding a four-legged friend to the household makes it much easier. While a walk around the block is nice, a trek around the city to witness Cleveland’s unmatched natural assets is exhilarating. Either way, you’re bound to run into familiar faces along the way and you will appreciate the experience just as much — or more — as your furry friend.  

Cleveland Metroparks provides ample opportunities for you and your dog to go exploring. Both Euclid Beach and Edgewater Beach are dog-friendly lakefront parks, with Edgewater even offering a dedicated beach area for dogs. While Whiskey Island offers varied terrain and beautiful scenery, the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail provides a protected and paved path for all hikers that connects to a number of city neighborhoods. Clark Field in Tremont, Cleveland’s famed Cultural Gardens, the Red Line Greenway and, of course, University Circle’s Wade Oval are all favorites for a good outing. And every city resident knows that a neighborhood recreation center is not far away, flush with open greenspace and friendly faces. Zone Rec in Detroit Shoreway and Collinwood Recreation Center are fan favorites.

DOG-FRIENDLY ESTABLISHMENTS

Bringing the dog along for a special occasion or a fancy night out may not always be workable, but a happy hour excursion or a fun Saturday afternoon outing Downtown should never be an excuse to leave Rover behind. A growing number of establishments happily welcome canine guests: Great Lakes Brewing Company, Brew Dog, Collision Bend Brewing Company and Masthead Brewing all invite you to bring your pups and provide a dog-friendly patio environment. Taps & Tails in Tremont takes it a step further, as it provides a special destination catering equally to both humans and dogs. 

There’s also a growing number of food and supply stores popping up in our neighborhoods. Pet-Tique, Luca Pet Nutrition and Lake Erie Pet Food are just a few local options to stock up on pet food, clothing, toys and hygienic care items that every dog-owner needs. So get your dog, pack a bag and plan a day to venture out around the city so both of you can appreciate the dog-friendliness of Cleveland neighborhoods.

ORGANIZATIONS TO KNOW

Dogs are family members, and they deserve an equal amount of care and attention. Resource organizations are in place to assist longtime pet owners as well as prospective “parents” who are seeking their first, or next, family addition. City Dogs Cleveland is the adoption and volunteer program for Cleveland Animal Care and Control. The Cleveland Animal Protective League provides full medical care, adoption opportunities and advocacy for Cuyahoga County from its headquarters in Tremont. Neighborhood Pets is located in Slavic Village. Founder Becca Britton shares, “at Neighborhood Pets, Cleveland residents can find trusted support, affordable services, and essential pet supplies — all designed to help people care for the pets who are part of their family.” 

Pet Resources: 

• neighborhoodpetscle.org

• clevelandapl.org

•clevelandohio.gov/city-hall/departments/public-safety/divisions/animal-care-control/adoptions/city-dogs