When the humans are away, the pets will play. Dogs, cats and their owners will find Greater Gainesville to be most hospitable to those four-legged family members they love so dearly. From parks and daycare centers to boutique stores and pet spas, if it barks or purrs, there is a place for them here.
The Great Outdoors: Pet Friendly Places in Greater Gainesville
Break free of the leash and stretch those legs at one of the area’s many amenity-rich dog parks. The Haisley Lynch Dog Park on South Main Street is a small, downtown spot perfect for a canine meet-and-greet. Maintained grass and dedicated water fountains make this playground a nice detour on the way to Depot Park.
Along with restaurants, shopping and hotels — for the humans too, of course — Celebration Pointe also features an 8,000-square-foot dog park. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, this aptly named location has shaded areas, water fountains and climbing structures for the more adventurous pooch.
More off-leash dog parks:
- Forest Park on Southwest 20th Avenue
- Smokey Bear Park on Northeast 15th Street
- Squirrel Ridge Park on Southwest Williston Road
Chow for Now
Kibble and treats are fine, but not everybody shares the same tastes. When heading out for a bite to eat, discover the many local restaurants that proudly call themselves pet friendly.
One Love Café, a farm-to-table style eatery big on local flavors and homemade flair, is all about letting the dogs out. Their outdoor patio sits on a large field perfect for stretching, running and playing. Just do not forget the doggy bag.
East End Eatery, a breakfast and brunch bistro on Northeast 8th Avenue, is the right kind of doghouse, allowing well-behaved woofers to sit with guests indoors. When looking for some sun, their fenced-in, outdoor patio is just the place.
More pet-friendly restaurants and taprooms:
Cintron on NW 43rd Street
Swamp Head Brewery on S.W. 42nd Avenue
Shopping Spree
The urge to splurge on pets is a hard one to resist, and a new toy or a favorite treat is a great way to repay the unconditional love pets have for their humans. GG is rich in opportunities to give that special dog or cat the shopping trip they deserve.
Downtown Tabby Pet Store on Northwest 10th Avenue is a one-stop shop for gifts and supplies of all sorts. Featuring an extensive list of popular and boutique brands, needs ranging from play time to bath time to bedtime can be satisfied in-store or by delivery. The website’s Bark N Meow Blog offers occasional advice, stories and information for all pet owners to enjoy.
Earth Pets Natural Pet Market is a locally owned natural pet supply store located on Northwest 60th Street. Many owners are keen on avoiding exposing their pets to harsh chemicals and animal byproducts, and Earth Pets offers natural, holistic alternatives. Operating with this mission in mind, Earth Pets has been serving healthy and ethically sourced pet food for more than 40 years.
Last Resort
Going on vacation? Sometimes it is best to leave the furry friends behind. Thankfully, GG has many options for boarding pets. These professionals will have owners assured that their dog or cat will be in good paws.
Camp Run-a-Mutt Gainesville is a cage-free dog daycare and boarding paradise. With services ranging from daily drop-offs to long term boarding, this award-winning facility features grooming, training and eye-in-the-sky Muttcams to watch over pets from afar. Exercise, sociability and more await at this puppy resort. They may never want to leave.
Prestige Pet Resort and Spa calls itself “Your Pet’s Vacation Destination.” Located on Northwest 13th Street, this all-inclusive hangout features boarding and grooming services for both canine and feline clientele.
More spots around town:
- Dogs Rule on Northeast 16th Avenue
- Must Love Dogs Park and Daycare on Southwest Archer Road
- Pet Paradise Gainesville on Newberry Road in Newberry
Pet Resources in Greater Gainesville
Looking for a four-legged friend to join the family? Rescue a pet at either Helping Hands Pet Rescue or the Humane Society of North Central Florida. As these are both no-kill shelters, rescuing a pet here will save lives. And, come on — look how cute they are.
By Ryan Walsh