UPDATE: With the upswing in recent cases in canine influenza, dog-owners should be aware of limiting their pet’s interaction with other dogs unless they are properly vaccinated and not showing signs of infection. More on information on the dog flu is available HERE.
Even with summer solstice in our rear-view mirrors, temperatures are still teetering the triple digits and fall isn’t looking much better.
Real Floridians are more used to the heat and aren’t afraid to look that sun in the face on a day-to-day basis, often with a four-legged friend in tow. But these brave souls may not realize is the high temperatures can actually be dangerous for their pups. Dogs’ body temperatures run higher than humans and rest between 101 and 102 degrees. This causes dogs to overheat more easily if left in the elements for too long.
To keep your fur baby safe and cool, we’ve pulled together a list of social activities that are dog-friendly and even pup-encouraged:
This Orlando favorite caters to the those who love caffeine and dogs. The flagship Winter Park location offers a grassy patio alongside the building for dogs to join the social scene. In Winter Park and the new downtown location, Foxtail invites dog owners in to treat their pup to a natural, dog treats, pupa-chinos, and water.
Located in the Audubon Park Garden District, this beer parlour is a great way to beat the heat and enjoy some unique brews. The massive space offers a break from outside and invites pups to relax in the AC, enjoy their own H20 in a fancy dish, or explore the back patio.
Nestled next to the Milk District off of Bumby Avenue, this watering hole features a covered “drinking garden.” This dog-friendly spot provides a breezy covered patio complete with fans and endless refreshments for patrons and pups.
Brunch, dine, drink wine, and enjoy some quality time with your pet on the covered dog-friendly patio. Located on a more quiet side of downtown, Eola Wine is an ideal spot to escape the sun for some cool libations and some shade for your pooch.
Every Sunday, the farmer’s market in Lake Eola Park unites locals through food, drinks, and other market fare. Despite the army of vendors, the most popular spot in the market are the shaded spots under the park’s mature oak trees. Dogs are catered to as much as their owners with market tents selling dog-friendly items, offering plenty of free water and treats.
One of Orlando’s most-loved, and longest-running breweries, this taproom caters to the the consummate beer connoisseur. With a menu featuring dozens of tasty beers and a rotating schedule of live bands, this dog-friendly location is perfect for a daytime sip or easy-going night out.
Even though this Ivanhoe pub has a set of ping pong tables inside, most patrons are drawn to the massive, outdoor, breezy and covered patio. Whether in the middle of a thunderous rainstorm or under the blazing sun, this expansive courtyard invites pups of all types to enjoy the lively tunes, people and bottomless water. The free train shots are for the humans though.
A little off the well-worn Downtown path, this neighborhood market is a welcoming spot just south of the 408. Plopped next to Lake Davis, this neighborhood café is an optimal location for a light walk or a quick bite on their covered patio. We hear they make a killer mimosa too.
And don’t worry. If it’s not the social scene on the agenda and you’re just trying to get some errands done, stores like Home Depot, Lowes, Petco, Bass Pro shops and even TJ Maxx and Pottery Barn are 100% dog friendly.
Sarah, there is currently a dog influenza wave that is making lots of dogs ill. It is spread through social interaction and the virus can cling to surfaces long after the contagious pet has left the area. All dog owners should watch for signs of illness, contact their vet, and get their dogs vaccinated if their vet recommends it.
While all the places you showcased are fun for us to take our dogs, let’s make sure our dogs don’t get more than we bargained for.
Thanks!