If you can’t find a dog-sitter for spring break, there are plenty of pet-friendly spots and events in the Kennesaw State community that you can visit during your “staycation.”
Frank Boone Dog Park is a 1.4-acre off-leash area within Swift-Cantrell Park that’s surrounded by a 6-foot-tall perimeter fence for added safety. There are separate areas for small and large dogs, and the park features a watering station, receptacles for disposing plastic waste bags and a dog wash area.
If you want to get some exercise with your furry friend, the renowned Kennesaw Mountain State Park welcomes dogs as long as they are on a leash. Be sure to provide your pet with lots of water on hikes as they can easily get dehydrated in the heat.
Looking for fun events to check out with Fido? On April 8, PetSmart will hold Easter Fun for Every Bunny. Your pup can have its picture taken with the Easter Bunny for free, go on the CritterTail Scavenger Hunt and meet other dogs.
Aside from planned outings, you may just want company while you run errands and go out to eat. In 2015, the Georgia Department of Health lightened up its rules regarding dogs in outdoor dining areas of restaurants. Those that allow dogs have to post a diagram of where dogs are permitted, so pay attention to that. Keep in mind that servers are not allowed to touch your pet, and dogs must remain on a leash and cannot sit on any chairs or furniture.
Since restaurants can legally allow you to bring your pet, a variety of dining options are available for your doggy dinner date. Options in the area include Pisano’s New York Style Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, Mellow Mushroom, The Nest BBQ, BurgerFi and many others. Bone-Appetite!
Pisano’s New York Style Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen employee Lisa Johnson said dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio, and there are currently no breed or weight restrictions.
“A lot of people enjoy it because locals that live close can walk their dogs here,” Johnson said. “They enjoy the flexibility and convenience.”
Mellow Mushroom employee Molly Lanier said there are four outdoor tables available to those with a canine companion.
“It is very convenient for the guests,” Lanier said. “[We’ve] never had a bad experience.”
After dinner, you may want to grab a drink and relax. Your furry friend can now join you for that relaxing brew at pet-friendly pubs with outdoor seating, like Paddy’s Pub and Eatery.
Keegan’s Public House is another choice, welcoming dogs on the outdoor patio. Bartenders said that guests enjoy when people bring their dogs along.
Sophomore English major Haley Sanders said she doesn’t get to take her dogs out as much as she would like due to busy school workloads. Spring break presents a great time to get more active with her furry friends.
“Dog-friendly places definitely make time with my dogs more accessible,” Sanders said. “Especially when it’s also a comfortable place for humans.”
If you’re one of many students enjoying a “staycation” this spring break, enjoy a variety of options that your dog will consider the best vacation by simply spending time with you.
