Updated August 24th, 2023
3 outdoor play dates for you and your best fur friend
Celebrate National Dog Day on Aug. 26 by treating your pooch to some quality time outdoors. Just like humans, dogs need outdoor time and exercise to maximize their happiness and wellbeing, according to Animal Wellness Magazine.
Also like humans, spending time outdoors helps your pup with weight control, depression and boredom. Once you review MetroParks’ rules with regard to pets in the parks, grab a leash and get ready for an outdoor adventure your pup will love:
1. Downtown’s for the dogs: Many may think urban areas are no place for pets because animals crave green space, but downtown Dayton is a pet-friendly place thanks to many parks and trails. In fact, leashed and controlled dogs are permitted at almost all MetroParks locations, including RiverScape, Sunrise and Deeds Point MetroParks.
Walk along the river with your favorite furry friend for some exercise, and then relax and watch the paddlers enjoy RiverScape River Run. Check out Wagtown’s Dog Trail of Downtown Dayton for additional places to walk downtown.
2. Socialize and save the date: If you have a new dog or puppy you’re training, socializing them with other pets, adults and children is an integral step in the training process. According to com, socializing your dog also promotes health and makes them less scared.
Trails and parks are filled with pets and people, many of which are delighted to greet you and your pup. Especially dog-friendly parks are Sugarcreek, Taylorsville and Englewood MetroParks and are perfect places to walk with your pet, experience nature and meet new people.
Additionally, be sure to save the date for the return of the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience presented by Huffy on Oct. 7 & Oct. 8. If you have a dog or just love being around dogs, this is a must-go event for your family. Special pup activities include the off-leash dog park, dock jumping dogs an more.
Wager Subaru Outdoor Experience presented by Huffy
Eastwood MetroPark
Saturday, Oct. 7, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday Oct. 2, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
3. Hit the nature trails: Get out and active with your best fur friend on the trails. The orange trail at Sugarcreek MetroPark is a 1.3-mile loop that features beautiful points of interest along the trail, including the Three Sisters and the Osage Orange Tunnel. The Adirondack Trail at Hills & Dales MetroPark is 1.46 miles and features beautiful views, play areas and the impressive Patterson Monument. For those who want a more extensive experience on the trails, try the orange trail at Germantown or Twin Creek MetroPark.
In search of a pet?
Looking for a companion to hit the trails with on National Dog Day? There are many wonderful animal welfare and rescue organizations in Dayton that want to connect you to pups looking for forever homes. Visit the Montgomery County Animal Resources Center, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton and SICSA to find the newest addition to your family and outdoor adventure companion.
