By Kelly Sharrer

If you’re going to explore all that Jackson County has to offer, why deny your four-legged buddy the chance to do the same? With a dog park and a wide range of neighborhoods, hills and parks to walk, hike and explore, Jackson County provides ample opportunity for pet lovers to give their furry friends a chance to make their own pawmarks on the area. Here are 5 things to try:

1. Pooches Welcome

If you think bringing your four-legged buddy to Jackson County will limit your range of accommodations, think again! America’s Best Value Inn, Baymont Inn, Hampton Inn, Super 8 Motel Jackson & Brooklyn, and Travelodge of Jackson are among hotels that will welcome the wagging traveler. Either way, make sure to call ahead for details and restrictions. Be sure to ask if fees are per night or per stay and whether your pet can be left unattended in the room.

While you are out, be sure to visit PetSmart, Pet Supplies Plus and Hollywood Pets to have your pooch look posh while visiting our beautiful Jackson County. They have toys, accessories and of course, groomers to keep your pup looking good!

2. Social Hour - Dog Park

Just like us humans, dogs need a chance to bark, exercise and sniff-sniff-sniff to get their bearings if they’re far from home. Paw Playground is located beside the Cascades Humane Society; they offer a secure, fenced in area for off-leash socializing complete with an area for large breed dogs, area for small breed dogs and benches for their people.

3. Take A Hike!

Jackson County offers miles and miles of trails for you and your buddy to explore. MacCready Reserve has undeveloped hiking trails that pets love or explore the wooded trails throughout Ella Sharp Park.

4. It Keeps You Running – Jogging Paths

Sometimes a dog just needs to get a jog in to work off that pent up energy, assuming his or her leashed owner can keep up. Jogging and walking paths are plenty in Jackson County. Take laps at Ella Sharp Park or The Cascades, visit the Falling Waters Trail with 10.6 miles of paved trail and enjoy the landscape and nature found along the way. 

5. Kennel Clubbin’ – Pet Boarding

Sometimes, your pet just wants some of that alone time to clear his or her crowded mind, and there’s nothing like a pet suite to do the trick. Unleashed and Lovin It offers boarding and doggie daycare services. You can also board your companion at Country Garden Vet Clinic, and Top Dog Pet Care. Be sure to call ahead for availability.

Have a howling good time! Where have you taken your dog in Jackson?