Tampa is a pet lover’s paradise. In fact, according to a recent survey by WalletHub, it’s the second-best city in the United States for pet owners. This questionnaire looks at 100 large cities and evaluates them based on 23 metrics, including walkability, the number of pet businesses, veterinarian costs, and more. Better yet, according to Honest Paws, Tampa ranks number one for the best city to be a dog!
Tampa truly shines when it comes to being a pet-friendly city.
It’s particularly welcome to renters, with over 94 percent of rental listings allowing for pets. Additionally, there are a lot of doggie daycares and boarding facilities, which comes in handy for residents and vacationers alike. Tampa ranks at the top of the nation for both animal shelters and veterinarian options. It also boasts the tenth most dog parks per capita, including Two Shepherd’s Taproom, an impressive indoor/outdoor dog park and bar. Other popular dog parks and walking trails include:
Lettuce Lake Conservation Park
All leashed dogs are welcome at this 240-acre site (excluding the boardwalk), which has wooded picnic areas, grills, playgrounds, and restrooms. Note that there is an admission fee.
Al Lopez Park
Here, you’ll find over 132 acres of nature trails and two freshwater ponds (including one that allows fishing!). After a hike, your dog can run off-leash in the fenced dog park, which allows pups of all sizes. Users rave over the safety and cleanliness of the area.
Eureka Springs Conservation Park
Visitors can enjoy 31 acres of outdoor space, with scenic boardwalks through a forest, a rose garden, and picnic areas. There is a fee per vehicle, and dogs must be leashed.
Hillsborough River State Park
This state park, located north of Tampa, offers visitors seven miles of walking paths that feature lush landscapes, rushing rivers, and historic landmarks. You can also swim, boat, canoe, fish, picnic, and/or camp during your visit.
University of South Florida Botanical Garden
Here, you and your pup can wander through natural habitats filled with beautiful blooms.
Tampa Riverwalk
On this waterfront walk, you can start or end your day with a 2.6-mile stroll along the Hillsborough River to the Garrison Channel. Good stopping points include Heights Market at Armature Works, Curtis Hixon park, and Sparkman Wharf, not to mention the many bars and restaurants. Head over in the evening to take in the beautiful lights!
Of course, we can’t forget to mention the pet-friendly beaches around Tampa!
Three of our favorite spots include:
Dog Beach at Davis Islands
If your pup loves the water, this spot is for you! Your furry friends are allowed anywhere along the shore as long as they’re on a leash. They can splash around off-leash in a designated fenced-in area located near the dog park. Be sure to check with your vet if you have any concerns about the bacteria levels in the water.
Picnic Island Park Dog Beach
With off-leash ocean access and opportunities for sandy play, your dog is sure to have a blast. The beach offers doggy bags, water hoses, shady spots, and more. Note that this open space does not have any fully enclosed areas.
Honeymoon Island
Located near Tampa, Honeymoon Island welcomes pets to its scenic shores and trails. The island features a designated dog beach where your pup can frolic off-leash and enjoy the water. Additionally, there are pet-friendly trails for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the island. Dog owners should ensure their pets are well-behaved and follow park guidelines to keep the area enjoyable for everyone.
To learn more about Tampa and nearby St. Petersburg, click here!
Let The Urban Dog Group help you with your real estate needs. Contact Christine Elias at caerealestate@gmail.com.
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