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A Vacation Guide to Pet-friendly Austin

Welcoming a New Pet
Image by Fran_Mother_Of_Dogs from Pixabay

A Vacation Guide to Pet-friendly Austin

Did you know that Austin is the nation’s 7th most pet-friendly city? In a recent survey by WalletHub, where they rated the pet friendliness of the 100 largest cities across 21 key metrics. With the wide variety of Pet-Friendly Restaurants, pet-friendly hotels and dog parks per capita.

With the holidays coming up, what better way to spend it then with your loved ones, and that includes your pet ofcourse! We all love our pets and would love to bring them along, but to save any unexpected inconveniences and disappointment it is always best to be prepared and have a plan.

1. Do your research

Luckily for you, we did most of it for you! First, get your dog or cat used to riding in a car and in their carrier. To allow them to be more comfortable and familiar, put their favourite toy inside their carrier to coax them. The scent would definitely put them at ease! Start with short trips, and slowly take longer trips so that they get used to it. Next, read up on your airlines’ pet policy. Be sure to get a veterinarian to sign a health certificate as stated by the federal and state laws for pets that fly. Be ready to present it to your airline prior to boarding.

2. Where to stay?

No idea what’s available in Austin? Thankfully, we have hand-picked 3 fantastic dog-friendly hotels in Austin for you to consider! For just $180 per night, South Congress Hotel offers a highly central location in the heart of the South Congress District. This boutique 4 Star hotel has a chic, elegant rooms and suites available. Who said you can’t have cake and eat it too? Explore the beautiful sights of the nearby historic Travis Heights neighbourhood, and finish the day off at Norwood Estate Dog park for sound quality bonding time with your pooch. Another trendy dog-friendly hotel is Hotel Saint Cecilia, the art-inspired bohemian décor would definitely get you in the mood to sit back and relax. Interestingly, this hotel was actually opened in honour of the Patron Saint of Music & Poetry, with elements of poetry and rock & roll music from the 60s and 70s. It costs about $190 per night. But we know you really want to treat yourself to something more luxurious and indulge a little more. Then Fairmont Austin Gold Experience, the newly opened 5 Star dog-friendly hotel in Central Business District might just do the trick! The stunning views of immersive, lush greenery of Palm Park and Waller Creek. Did someone say spa and heated pools? This modern oasis has facilities that would keep you and your pet entertained for hours on end! Plus, it is a stone’s throw away from Lady Bird Lake. In fact, dogs floating in canoes or kayaks are a common sight along this scenic lake. Take your dog off-leash and let them frolic along the lake against the picturesque views of the lake. Prices start from $200 per night.

3. What to do?

After a well-rested time at your pet-friendly hotel, it’s time to hit the streets! Jester King Brewery is one of the most family and dog friendly breweries in Texas. The beautiful beer garden and cornhole games would leave you with an unforgettable Austin experience like no other. There is also a partially covered area if the heat is getting to you. If you have the chance, definitely sample Jester King’s own barrel-aged beers or the guest beers, wines or ciders.

Are you a digital nomad? This newly-opened space offers a dog-friendly co-working space that doubles up as a cage-free doggy daycare and a large indoor/outdoor play park. Cue, “Work and Woof” which is situated at the south of Austin. Best of all, the play park is eco-friendly. They have a BYOB policy, where glass containers are not allowed.

4. Where to eat?

Yard Bar

Fancy a refreshing local cocktail, while your dogs play? The Yard Bar might just be the place for you! It has a large off-leash dog park, perfect for your pets to be free and roam around. Don’t worry! It is patrolled by Bark Rangers to ensure the safety of all the dogs, so you can let them play with a peace of mind. There’s even a special fenced-off area for smaller dogs. You can order wine, beer and best of all cocktails from the attached bar. A hot favourite is “Rescue Me” which has Tito’s Vodka! Yum! The dog food menu has an amazing spread from home-made ice cream to Bone & Co. sliders. While people can enjoy the Yard Bar BLT and even, spicy deviled eggs.

Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden

After a long day of sight-seeing, this quick pit-stop is the perfect place for you and your pet. Whether you are thirsting for some coffee, beer or a cocktail, Cosmic Coffee has got you covered! They even have mountain of dog treats on the counter for your dog to reenergize, as well as a fresh water dispenser. One amazing thing to look forward to is the cool selection of food trucks that serve up delectable tacos and BBQ!

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