New Orleans is a dog-loving city and our canine-centered facilities and accommodations certainly reflect that ideal. The dogs in New Orleans are most often treated as equals and participating community members. It can be hard to plan a trip as a pet – specifically dog – owner: coordinating a dog-sitter, boarding a dog, dealing with separation anxiety…the list goes on. However, it can be quite feasible, and pleasant for that matter, to include little Fido or Ms. Prissy Pants (don’t judge) on your next trip to New Orleans with these top five dog-friendly features. And if you want to bring your four-legged best friend along to Mardi Gras, there’s Barkus– the parade dedicated entirely to dogs!
Dogs can people-watch, too at Johnny White's! (johnnywhitesneverclosed.com)
1. Yappy Hour – It’s easy and fun to go drinking with your furry friend in New Orleans (water only for the pup, of course). Dogs are regulars as much as their owners in bars here, especially at places like The Bridge Lounge where you can sit with your dog while enjoying a craft cocktail or Johnny White’s on Bourbon Street that makes a calendar every year of their canine patrons. Other dog-friendly bars include Cosimo’s Bar in the French Quarter, and Pal’s Lounge in Mid-City near Bayou St. John.
2. Canine Hospitality at Ritz-Carlton – Though many luxury hotel chains have adopted a pro-pet policy like the W, Lowes and Westin, for a $150 deposit, your dog can live like a king or queen at the Ritz-Carlton. Included in the deposit, a pet bed, chew toys, bowls, designer collars, leashes and more are furnished from the hotel for your dog’s comfort and pleasure.
3. City Bark – City Bark is the ultimate dog park. As part of City Park, the park opened in 2009 after reaching a funding goal of $500,000 and has had continued sponsorship from local donors and businesses for improved landscaping and amenities. City Bark has everything you could want in a dog park: off-leash areas, a walking trail, an obstacle course, a partitioned small dog play area and more.
THe "Hollywood Hounds" Suite at Camp Bow Wow
4. Camp Bow Wow – Yep, that’s right. A day-camp for dogs. Located in the Irish Channel neighborhood, Camp Bow Wow is a place for your dog to play all day in spacious outdoor areas with paw-shaped pools and agility play equipment. If your pup is spending the night, they have a “turn-down service” in their cabins, or the option of seven different themed luxury suites like the “Mardi Paws” room or “King Pup” tomb. This would be a perfect boarding alternative for vacations or business trips to New Orleans.
5. Dog-Friendly Dining – Many restaurants offering al fresco dining in New Orleans also invite dogs to join the party. On the Garden District side of the Magazine Street dining and shopping district, restaurants like Reginelli’s, Nacho Mama’s and Byblos welcome dogs as well as other casual restaurants like El Gato Negro in the French Quarter, The Joint in the Bywater and The Basil Leaf in Uptown. If you feel like treating Rex to an upscale dinner, try Patois, Bayona, Lilette or La Crepe Nanou for sidewalk or patio dining.
Honorable Mention: Belladoggie, the resort dog spa as part of Belladonna.
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