How Greater Gainesville’s Pups Would Spend Their Paw-fect Day
By Jennifer Kennedy
In the 2021 movie “Yes Day” parents that usually say no to their kids change their mindset. They commit to saying yes to all of their children’s requests for fun. The result is an unforgettable day for the whole family.
Now, imagine a version for dogs. Here is what the canine version could look like in Greater Gainesville:
1. PUP CUP
Starbucks 1614 NW 13th Street
Swing through the drive thru to fuel the morning’s adventures.
2. MORNING WALK
Alfred A. Ring Park 1801 NW 23rd Boulevard
Exercising outdoors is the ideal way for any dog to begin the day. Get an early start before the temperatures rise and hike the scenic 1.5 mile loop trail that winds alongside Hogtown Creek. Pack water and take a break under the pavilion to cool off.
3. TOY SHOPPING
Earth Pets Natural Pet Market of Gainesville 500 NW 60th Street Suite F
Humans are welcome to accompany their pets as they stroll the aisles at this store to shop for earth-friendly balls or chew, plush, rope, squeaky, interactive or treat-dispensing toys. GG dogs would choose a favorite or two on their perfect day.
4. NAP & SNACK TIME
Barkuterie Board Home
A healthy snack and a long nap snuggling with their human is the best way to recharge. Prepare a dog’s version of the popular charcuterie board with mouth-watering and nourishing foods. Choose from steak, carrots, blueberries, strawberries, garbanzo beans, peas, celery, sunflower seeds, peanut butter or Greek yogurt. Use a bone shaped cookie cutter for a Pinterest-worthy presentation.
5. SWIM & SOCIALIZE
Must Love Dogs Park, 5505 SW Archer Road
This private space has shaded areas to run plus two swimming ponds to cool off. Make new canine friends and get plenty of exercise across 15 acres of fun.
6. DINE AL FRESCO
Swamphead Brewery 3650 SW 42nd Avenue
People can enjoy dinner while dogs relax by their side under the covered patio. A water fountain and bowls are available to stay hydrated. Pack kibble or order a dog-friendly treat from the food truck menu to dine together.
7. BARKERY DESSERT
Sweet Paws Bakery 5330 SW 91st Terrace
This entire store is filled with pup cakes and cookies. Dogs can choose their own special treat for their Yes Day adventure. Owner Colleen Toledo loves seeing dogs every day at their happiest. She thinks treating them to special experiences is important.
“They bring us so much joy and love us unconditionally,” Toledo said. “Spoiling them is how we can show we appreciate them.”
Sidebar: Dog Parks in Gainesville
Dogs that like making new canine friends will have fun at these free parks:
Possum Creek Park is a multi-use preserve that includes a dog park, nature trail and playground on 76 acres. 4009 NW 53rd Avenue
Northeast Park allows you to take leashed walks along their nature paths or enjoy the off-leash fenced in area with drinking water, benches and shade. 400 NE 16th Avenue
Haisley Lynch Park is a refurbished 1.4-acre park with a fenced off-leash dog area and a garden featuring native Florida plants. 450 S Main Street
Forest Park has separate small and large dog parks plus picnic pavilions, restrooms and sports fields. 4501 SW 20th Avenue
Squirrel Ridge Park provides shade and running water to cool off after a walk around the park or playtime in the fenced in off-leash dog section. 1603 SW Williston Road
