By Michael Evans
Posted On: Feb 20, 2018
If you’re a dog owner and you’re anything like me, you enjoy nothing more than spending time with your four-legged friends and spoiling them like they’re your very own child! For many households, dogs are an essential part of the family. Luckily, Ohio is a very dog-friendly state, and there are many things you can do while on your travels to cater to the canines in your life!
Credit: @carolinemoore04
Believe it or not, some wineries and breweries in Ohio are open to dogs! While the dogs won’t be sipping on the alcohol with you, they can join you on the patio in warmer months. BrewDog Brewery and Taproom in Columbus is an example of such a brewery.
Cincinnati-based Graeter’s Ice Cream is a dog friendly establishment, allowing pups on the outdoor patios. In the past, they’ve even had Purina Frosty Paws available.
To get active with your dog, most State and MetroParks in Ohio have a pet policy allowing for dogs to join you on a hike. Some have special paths designated for dogs while other portions of the park are off limits. For instance, the gardens at Inniswood Metro Gardens in Westerville prohibit dogs, but there are paths in which dogs are permitted.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Summit and Cuyahoga Counties encourages pets, but advises you to look out for wild animals such as black bears or raccoons that could potentially harm your dog. They also ask you to use discretion when sharing the hiking trail with other dogs, runners and bicyclists. Every park is different, but most trails are an open-door policy!
And while it may seem obvious, there are plenty of awesome dog parks located across the state you should check out. Some favorites of mine are Wags Park in Cincinnati, Bow Wow Beach in Stow (offering seven acres and a lake for swimming), Wood County Dog Park in Bowling Green (requires paid membership) and Scioto Audubon Metro Park in Columbus (loaded with fun obstacles).
When all else fails, get creative! My dog Slider has been on countless adventures with me, including paddle boarding. If you have a dog, big or small, they deserve to explore Ohio as much as possible!
For more fun this #SummerInOhio, check out #OhioFindItHere at Ohio.org.
