Pet Friendly Howard
Howard County has a lot to offer when it comes to furry friends. Whether you're visiting or engaging in hometown weekend fun, there are plenty of places to stay, places to eat, pet services and more. Pets and their owners will be purring - or howling - with delight!
Enjoy some time outdoors!
Howard County welcomes leashed animals and their owners to many parks. You can find a list of many of the great parks here.
Leashed dogs are welcome to wander the The Howard County Conservancy trails dawn to dusk everyday with a human friend. Please clean up after your pooch.
Bring your horse! This 192-acre park in Highland features an equestrian ring and riding trails. If you don’t have a horse, that’s okay, additional amenities include playing fields, picnic areas, historical interpretation and a state-of-the-art playground. Open from 7 a.m. to dusk
Dogs are invited to enjoy socializing and running without the confines of a leash. Park features include separate enclosures for large, small, timid & elderly dogs. A $5 day- pass fee and proof of current license and rabies apply. Handlers must be 18 years of age; children under the age of twelve are not allowed in off-leash area. Open seasonally, weather permitting.
Columbia DogPark is an off-leash area operated and maintained by Columbia Association. Columbia DogPark offers a recreation and park setting for dog lovers and dog owners to enjoy. The park consists of 2.7 acres divided into two fenced areas one for small and one for large dogs.
Relax for the night at a pet friendly hotel.
No need to leave your pooch at home, the Residence Inn by Marriott, Sheraton Columbia Town Center and Turf Valley Resort are ready to welcome you and your dog when your travels require you to be away for the night.
Take them to dinner!
Leashed dogs are allowed on many restaurant patios. Perfect for when you and your furry friends both want to enjoy some time al fresco. Lisbon Town Grill. Stella Notte and Rams Head Tavern in Savage Mill are just a few.
Pet Friendly Businesses
HOWARD COUNTY CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Howard County Center for the Arts studio artist, Art Landerman, does pet portraits.
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome in the wine bin!
Events
Pet owners can give thanks and ask for blessings upon their pets. All pets need to be on a leash. Blessing takes place in October in the piazza before the Shrine of St. Anthony in Ellicott City.
Once a year the Columbia Association hosts this free event which is open to the general public. Come see local pet vendors (including vets and animal rescues), face painting for kids, a caricature artist who does drawings of your dog, two leash free areas for small dogs and large dogs to run around and play, contests including “Best Kisser,” and “Best Costume,” and much more. This is one of CA’s most popular events!
SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS TAIL LIGHTS
Once a year treat yourself and your dog to a walk through the 1.4 mile Symphony of Lights displays. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the holiday season and to make this dog friendly walk your families new holiday tradition.
Yappy Hour happens the first Friday of each month April through November. Bring your well behaved dog to a wine tasting. During nice weather, Yappy Hour is held in the parking lot with live music and wine. Inside the store enjoy a wine and parfections chocolate tasting.
