For those of you who don’t know me well, you will learn very quickly – I am an animal lover. I have four fur babies (two dogs and two cats) who I am completely obsessed with. 
Pictured are my two rescue dogs, Jackson and Bentley, and my kitties, Nestle and Charlotte (both rescued from AC PAW). I love to be active with my dogs and include them in any possible activities! Everyone with dogs knows that finding dog-friendly activities can be a challenge. However, Traverse City is generally super dog-friendly, and I want to share with you some of our favorite things to do!
Jackson loves to play with his dog friends at the East Silver Lake Dog Park. The fenced in dog park is part of the Silver Lake Recreation Area, located at 1785 N. East Silver Lake Road. There are separate areas for large dogs and small dogs, in addition to walking trails around the park.
There are also numerous dog-friendly hiking trails and beaches at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Dogs should always be on a six-foot leash, but are welcomed in numerous areas in the park. The Empire Bluffs Hike is one of our favorites – featuring an easy hike through the woods and a gorgeous view! Visit their website for more information on areas of the park you can visit with your furry friends.
There are also numerous restaurants and wineries in the area that allow dogs on their outdoor patios. Bowers Harbor Winery on Old Mission Peninsula and Left Foot Charley both allow dogs, as well as The Little Fleet in downtown Traverse City. The Shed Beer Garden also encourages you to bring your canine companion in addition to featuring a brand new Doggie Menu!
Jackson, Bentley and I will also be joining Woofers on the Run for their upcoming Hurricane Harvey Benefit Dog Walk! Join us on Sunday, September 17 at 2:00 pm at the Traverse City Civic Center for a group dog walk, treats, and prizes (including a dog gift basket from DEK Realty!), all to benefit Corridor Rescue, Inc., a small, local animal rescue in Houston that was flooded by Hurricane Harvey. Check out their Facebook event for details and we hope to see you there! Woofers on the Run also offers pet sitting services and “Woofers Adventure Club” group dog walks.