The winter months are a perfect time to snuggle up at home with your pets. If you already have cabin fever and want to spend time with your four-legged friends outside of the house, here is a list of winter dog parks, events, and dog-friendly indoor spaces.
Bechtel Park
This dog park is located just off University Ave at 185 Bridge Street. This City of Waterloo run park features free parking, and at the south end, a large leash-free area for dogs. The large, fully fenced area, features a natural walking path, perfect for keeping you and Fido in shape this winter. No treats or toys are allowed in this park; the idea is that you are walking your dog off leash, where they can interact with other dogs.
McLennan Park
Located at 901 Ottawa St S, this City of Kitchener dog park features lots of free parking, and a medium size fenced in area with plenty of garbage disposal. McLennan Park is more of an open area, than a walking track, but a great place for your dog to meet and socialize with other dogs.
Benjamin Tree Farm
Looking to pick out your Christmas Tree? If you head to Benjamin Tree Farm located at 770 Benjamin Road, you can bring your furry friends. Dogs are allowed in the over 30 achers of Christmas Trees and it’s a perfect space for a winter walk, where you can harvest your own tree or pick from a beautiful selection of pre-cut trees.
Wonders of Winter
Wonders of Winter is an annual event in Waterloo Park from Nov. 30 until Dec. 31. The lights are on display from 5:30 – 10:30 p.m. every evening. Avoid New Year’s when they have a firework display, and Friday and Saturday nights there are horse-drawn trolley rides. Two different dog friendly nights occur during December. On Dec. 11 at 7 p.m., walk through the park with The Dog Haus, and enjoy hot cocoa. Feel free to dress your pup festively. On Dec. 19, join Leaders of the Pack for their 2nd annual HOWL-iday Pack Walk starting at 7 p.m. near the Lions Splash pad. Both events are free to attend and organizers have requested that for the safety of the pack, attendees refrain from using extendable leashes.
TWB
Together We’re Bitter Co-operative brewing located at 300 Mill Street, Unit #1, creates hand crafted locally made beer. Dogs are welcome in the front tap room, but can’t go into the back production room. Take your pooch while you sit and enjoy a local brew.
Photos with Santa
Looking for places to have a photo with Santa or Christmas themed photos, check out these different options:
Dec. 7, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Huron East Animal Hospital.
Minimum of a $10 donation or unopened bag/case of canned dog or cat food. Proceeds to be donated to Ground Search and Rescue KW to help pets in need.
Dec. 7, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. & Dec. 8 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Ren’s Pets Kitchener. $10 per pictures goes to the Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society
Dec. 8, 6:30 P.M. – 8 p.m.
Conestoga Mall. Please enter through the mall doors near Winners (at rear of mall). All other doors will be locked.
DEC. 14, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Global Pet Foods at Laurelwood Shopping Plaza (FREE)
Dec. 14,
Must call store to book appointment.Christmas Photos at Pet Valu Stanley Park ($25+)
Dec. 15,
Must call store to book appointment.
Christmas Photos at Pet Valu on Bridgeport and Weber ($25+)
Dec. 21,
Must call store to book appointment.
Christmas Photos at Pet Valu on Highland Rd ($25+)