DOGS AND THE CITY

Article by Paloma Cacho-Sousa


The Big Apple is an exciting place to visit, and what better way than sharing the experience with your furry loved ones?

In such a hectic city, you would think there are not that many dogs.  After all, when would people find time to take care of them?  Where would dogs find space to hang out and play among all the buildings and bustle?  Wouldn’t New Yorkers just hate dogs being in their way? 

As it turns out, Manhattan is surprisingly dog friendly. The city has many parks and recreational areas, and even the surliest New Yorker can’t resist the lure of a bulldog. 

Planes, Trains and Automobiles But first things first: when to go and how to get there?

If you are bringing your dog, it is best to come between April and June or mid September through November.  Summer is too hot for most dogs (and their owners) and winter is too cold.

Next up: road trip or plane?  If you choose to drive, there are plenty of rest areas along the highway where your pet can stretch its legs and have some food and water.  A place to sleep shouldn’t be a problem, as there are plenty of hotels that are dog friendly (La Quinta Inn, Marriott, Best Western, Holiday Inn and Hampton Inn, to name a few).

If you decide to travel by plane, make sure to contact your preferred airline and make the necessary arrangements since there are some rules and permits that you must be aware of.

Book a hotel in NY before you arrive! 

Manhattan can be crowded, and there are certain times of the year when no rooms are available in the city.  DogFriendly.com is a good source for finding pet friendly hotels. Note that you can only bring your dog into the New York subway in a bag or crate!

Welcome to the Big Apple!

Once in the city you can’t miss a walk through Central Park.  Located in the middle of the city, it has wide-open areas, and dedicated dog parks where you can let your pet off the leash.  While there, don't miss the statue of Balto, the famous sled dog. Thirsty dogs can drink from one of the many special doggie fountains located throughout the park.

Another fun thing to do around this area is to take one of the famous Horse and Carriage Rides with your pup. 

These depart from 5th Avenue and 59th Street at Central Park and are a nice way of enjoying a relaxing ride through the park.  Just make sure the horse doesn’t spook your dog!

If you and your pup are hardcore, you can take the walking tour of New York City, which is led by Tawny, a golden retriever. 

However, Manhattan isn’t the only place to see.  You and your dog can also take a leisurely stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge (Center Street and Barclay Street) and take beautiful pictures of Manhattan’s southern skyline.  Don’t forget to take sunscreen, water, and look out for the Statue of Liberty, which can be seen from the bridge!

Ready to go shopping?  Several big-name stores welcome pets and their owners. 

Stop at Bloomingdales at 59th and Lexington for the latest fashion.  Other dog-friendly stores are: Saks Fifth Avenue (5th avenue and 50th St.), Tiffany (5th Ave. and 56th St.), Restoration Hardware (Broadway and 22nd St.) and Banana Republic (5th Ave. and 34th St.).

When you get tired of walking or if you wish to see the city from the comfort of a car’s back seat, you can call the Pet Taxi or Pet Chauffer, both of which specialize in transporting dogs (and their owners) about town.


All this sightseeing can sure leave your dog hungry. 

For dog cookies or cute dog clothes visit Downtown Doghouse on 8th Avenue and 18th Street.  If you need pet supplies there are many independently owned and chain stores scattered throughout the city.


Time to relax…  Are you and your dog into art? How about a visit to the William Secord Art Gallery?

Located on the Upper East Side between Park and Madison Aves. and 76th Street, this gallery specializes in 19th century dog paintings and welcomes your dog.


Finally, to cool off at the end of a long day

You and your dog should look forward to an ice cream cone served by New York’s famous Mr. Softee ice cream trucks.  These white panel vans cruise the streets of Manhattan selling water and tasty cold treats.

Paloma Cacho - Sousa, a University of Miami graduate, is a professional in the digital media industry. She recently moved to New York with her two very spoiled English Bulldogs Bolinha and Picanha. Her other interests include: running, boxing, travel, photography, good food and of course dogs!

 
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