If you’re among the many dog owners in Colorado, you’re in good company. Some areas of Colorado have more dogs than children believe it or not, and even Colorado Springs is ranked as America’s most pet-friendly city in the United States according to Forbes. Here on the Western Slope, there are plenty of dog-friendly places to take your four-legged buddies.
Right here in Montrose, is a beautiful 4+ acre fenced dog park that your pet can enjoy from sunrise to sunset. Located at the north side of Cerise Park and within walking distance to Riverbottom Park, the Montrose Dog Park offers separate off-leash sections for small and large dogs so your pets can play with similarly sized friends. Near the Uncompahgre River Recreation Trail, after romping in the mix of wild, treed areas and cleared, mulched sections, owners can leash their dogs and let them cool off in the Uncompahgre River at the water park. Ouray also has a small off-leash dog park at the corner of 8th Avenue and 1st Street by the river that has a small kiddie pool for pets to cool off after their romp.
Telluride and Mountain Village are also quite pet-friendly and allow dogs on the gondolas between the two cities. With all of the phenomenal hiking trails in the area, you can hike up to stretch your companion’s legs and then ride the gondola back down to enjoy the breathtaking mountain views.
Durango wins the award as one of the largest off-leash dog parks in Colorado with a full 24-acres of open space for your four-legged friends to roam. There is even an area that borders the Animas River for dogs to fetch in the water.
Aside from local dog parks on the Western Slope are your less conventional dog-friendly activities like Jeeping in Ouray and Telluride. Although pets will have to be leashed, they can enjoy the fresh air tour right along with you on most guided trips. You will want to call ahead to make sure there is room for your pet, and in most instances, you will be required to sign a waiver and be in full control of your pet at all times to ensure their safety as well as your own.
Additionally, there are quite a few pet-friendly restaurants in and around Montrose with Horsefly Brewing Company being one of the local spots where well-behaved dogs are welcome on the patio. Ridgway, Ouray, Telluride and Mountain Village have a plethora of restaurants that welcome leashed dogs on the patio including the delicious Panny’s Pizza in Ridgway that you won’t want to miss on your way to the next outdoor adventure.
Most dogs enjoy accompanying their owners on camping, hiking trips, and even kayaking or paddleboarding trips. Just be sure to outfit your companion with plenty of water and a doggie life jacket for safety. As with any public outing with your dogs, you will want to go prepared to clean up after your pet, make sure they are comfortable and well-behaved around people, especially children, and they are properly vaccinated to be around other dogs. So, whether you are just visiting or a local, you can enjoy Colorado with your furry friends!
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