The Blue Grass State—home to just as many animals as it is humans (or at least it should be). Boasting the highest population of deer, turkey, and free-range elk in the region, it is safe to say Kentucky is no stranger to wildlife. This applies on the domestic front, too, as there are plenty of dog owners and lovers to keep carpets across the state covered in matted fur.
If you’re new to the area or looking for a new spot to play with your pooch, look no further. From Louisville to Richmond, Kentucky has a wealth of dog-friendly restaurants, public parks, and activities to meet your every canine need, and we’re here to share the love.
Pints and Pooches in Dog-Friendly Louisville
Considered the state’s first-class city, Louisville is Kentucky’s largest and most populated locale. Home to the famous horse racing derby, a number of Fortune 500 companies…and KFC, the Gateway to the South is the perfect place to enjoy some quality time with your canine companion.
Looking for a dog-friendly restaurant in Louisville, KY? Grab yourself a bite and a pint at Molly Malone’s, an Irish pub that welcomes all dog breeds. Featuring a large, outdoor patio area, there is always plenty of space to accommodate both you and Fido. Molly Malone’s is so fond of pets, it even creates a yearly pet calendar featuring pictures of its favorite costumed canines and donates proceeds to The Shamrock Pet Foundation.
Get Your Game Face On with Fido
Sports fans and fellow dog owners will find themselves right at home at The Sports and Social Club, Louisville’s premier sports bar. Great food, big screen TVs, and a pet-friendly atmosphere take this sports bar to another level. Not only is restaurant staff is hospitable to canine friends, but it has dedicated sidewalk tables for people with pooches. Looking for a little more variety for your next dog-friendly Louisville day date? Try Dizzy Whizz Drive-In, McAlister’s Deli, or The Anchorage Café.
When it comes time to burn off all those collective calories, head out to Sawyer Dog Park. Situated on a sprawling six acres of grassy land and with two areas for large and small breeds, Sawyer is one of the most popular off-leash dog parks in Louisville, KY. However, if that’s a bit out of your travel radius, Cochran Hill Dog Run, Louisville Waterfront Park, and Vettiner Dog Run are all excellent options for an afternoon of chow-fueled exercise.
Pack Your Chew Toys for a Doggie Day in Richmond
Heading southeast, we can’t forget about the dog lovers of Richmond, KY. While dedicated dog-friendly eateries in Richmond are limited, a short trip to nearby Nicholasville offers pet owners and their furry pals dog-friendly restaurant options like Sonic Drive-In and Bruster’s Real Ice Cream. To show they mean business, Bruster’s is known to make specialty sundaes for doggie customers— sprinkled bits of dog treats included! Talk about spoiled.
When it’s time to work off those kibble bits, Richmond dog parks like Judy Rains Memorial Dog Park at Lake Reba are a welcome retreat. This off-leash playground offers a number of water fountains for canine visitors. There is even an old fire hydrant your dog can use when nature calls.
Next time life calls you away from home, connect with our loving dog sitters in Kentucky. They know The Blue Grass State like the back of their paw and can’t wait to share their favorite pet hangouts on your pal’s next doggie day date.
Top image via Flickr/geekmonkey
