If you love going to dog-friendly events outdoors, spring time is the season to find them. There are also plenty of opportunities to hang out with other animal lovers at meaningful fundraising events.
Our Good Dog Hotel & Spa gang is always on the lookout for more dog-friendly things to do in the Indianapolis area. If you know of other special events coming up, please let us know. Share it in the comments section below, or hop over to our Facebook page and tell us about it there.
And don’t forget, spring is a great time to get your dog groomed and beautified. Make your appointment now, and enjoy the outdoors!
Saturday, April 13
Noon – 3 p.m.
1200 East 42nd Street, Indianapolis
This Easter egg hunt is hosted by Helping Paws and The Four Legged Ranch, two 501c3 Animal Rescues based in the Indianapolis and surrounding area. This special event will feature treats and prizes in all the eggs. Some will have gift cards, dog toys, and other items donated by local companies. There will be a contest for best dressed dog, pictures with the Easter Bunny, vender booths and a raffle. Fee: $10 per dog, humans are free.
Saturday, April 20 7:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Decatur Township School for Excellence, Indianapolis
The Hero Dog Jog 5k Run/Walk is a fast and flat route on Decatur school property. Proceeds go to the IMPD K-9 Unit, in support of local dogs who put their lives on the line daily for their handlers and the city. Post-race, awards will go to the Top 3 Overall Male & Female finishers. An after-party celebration will recognize sponsors and participants, and feature snacks and refreshments. Fees vary.
Saturday, April 27 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indianapolis
The Mutt Strut is a one-of a-kind event for pets of all shapes and sizes! Join the over 3,000 people and 4,000 pets who attend Mutt Strut each year from across Indiana. Walk the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway track and kiss the bricks while supporting IndyHumane. Music, vendors, food, and activities will be available. Fees vary.
This event is for wine connoisseurs and animal lovers 21 years or older, wearing their favorite cocktail attire. Network, mingle, host special guests or reward your staff with an evening of wine tastings sure to please the palate at Wine, Wags & Whiskers.Proceeds help fund Humane Society for Hamilton County’s daily operations, and the shelter’s Survivor Program. Individual and table tickets available.
Pours for Paws will be the largest beer, wine, and cider event to benefit the Humane Society for Hamilton Co. In partnership with the Embassy Suites of Noblesville and hosted by Monon Beverage Brokers, this one of a kind event will be held indoors in their newly built conference center. A Friday night full of beer, wine, and cider to benefit animals, with a goal of raising $20,000.00 for this cause. Ticket prices vary.
Valentine’s Day isn’t just for human couples. Here’s how you can enjoy the day with your dog.
Valentine’s Day isn’t just for human couples. It’s also a special day to celebrate the unconditional love from your pets. Of course, here at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa in Broad Ripple, we are a little partial to sharing the day with our favorite dogs. Always on the lookout for good Valentine’s Day celebration ideas, we are happy to pass along some of our clients’ favorites.
Let us know what you think, and if you have something special planned that’s not on the list, tell us about it. No matter how you celebrate, we wish you and your loved ones a wonderful and love-filled Valentine’s Day!
1. Get Active
What are the activities your dog loves to do the most? Whether it’s taking long walks through the woods, running around in circles on open fields, fetching tennis balls or hanging out at a dog park, get outside and treat him to his favorite form of exercise.
2. Give Special Treats
Stop by your favorite dog bakery and pick up something special for your furry friend. Or peruse the internet for a great dog treat recipe and experiment in the kitchen. A delicious treat is a perfect V-day surprise that will show your pet how much you love her, plus you’ll get to see her dig in and enjoy it.
3. Go Shopping
Dogs love to wonder the aisles of pet stores (if they’re allowed). Go on a shopping trip together with your entire family if you want, and check out all the newest gadgets and toys. See what your dog is drawn to, and buy it! They’ll be so excited to get home and start playing.
4. Plan a Playdate
Who doesn’t love some good play time with friends? Plan a special Valentine’s Day playdate, complete with special treats and maybe those new toys you buy from your shopping trip. Your dog will love some time with her pals, and it’s fun for owners too!
5. Have a Photo Shoot
You probably already take plenty of photos of your dog from your phone, but why not step it up a notch with a little extra planning? Buy him a new doggie coat, outfit or other accessory (make sure they are safe and comfortable), and take a little extra time with props, lighting and angles. Or better yet, do it up right by hiring a pet photographer. Be creative, and let your imagination go wild.
6. Visit a Professional Groomer
Pamper your dog with a visit to a professional groomer. Spring for a full package that includes a bath, brush and complete groom. And remember the previous suggestion of a photo shoot? Schedule your grooming session right before it’s camera time, and let your dog shine.
7. Take a Nap
If your dog loves to cuddle up on your lap or next to you on the sofa for naps, take some time from your day to join him. Get those blankets out, turn off your phones and give your pooch time and undivided attention.
Keep your dog and other pets safe during the holidays with these food, decorations and party safety tips.
‘Tis the season for twinkling lights and holiday festivities. We’re already in the spirit at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa in Broad Ripple, and we can’t wait to spread some cheer. As you plan your family gatherings and get out all those decorations, we wanted to share some important information for pet parents.
2. If you like to get your pooch spruced up for the holidays and visitors, our professional groomers have you covered. But again, act fast to schedule an appointment.
3. If possible, keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible.
We also wanted to pass on some excellent holiday safety advice from the folks at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). They’ve outlined pet safety tips for seasonal plants and decorations, food, and all those parties and gatherings. Gear up, friends, and get ready to celebrate!
Be Careful with Seasonal Plants and Decorations
• Oh, Christmas Tree: Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.
• Avoid Mistletoe & Holly: Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. And many varieties of lilies can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.
• Tinsel-less Town: Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching “toy” that’s easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It’s best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.
• That Holiday Glow: Don’t leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on a stable surface. And if you leave the room, put the candle out!
• Wired Up: Keep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws’ reach. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet’s mouth and digestive tract.
Avoid Holiday Food Dangers
• Skip the Sweets: By now you know not to feed your pets chocolate and anything sweetened with xylitol, but do you know the lengths to which an enterprising pet will go to chomp on something yummy? Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.
• Leave the Leftovers: Fatty, spicy and no-no human foods, as well as bones, should not be fed to your furry friends. Pets can join the festivities in other fun ways that won’t lead to costly medical bills.
• Careful with Cocktails: If your celebration includes adult holiday beverages, be sure to place your unattended alcoholic drinks where pets cannot get to them. If ingested, your pet could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure.
• Selecting Special Treats: Looking to stuff your pet’s stockings? Stick with chew toys that are basically indestructible, Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods or chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible. Long, stringy things are a feline’s dream, but the most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating surgery. Surprise kitty with a new ball that’s too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer.
Plan a Pet-Safe Holiday Gathering
• House Rules: If your animal-loving guests would like to give your pets a little extra attention and exercise while you’re busy tending to the party, ask them to feel free to start a nice play or petting session.
• Put the Meds Away: Make sure all of your medications are locked behind secure doors, and be sure to tell your guests to keep their meds zipped up and packed away, too.
• A Room of Their Own: Give your pet his own quiet space to retreat to—complete with fresh water and a place to snuggle. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their carrying case or in a separate room away from the hubbub.
• New Year’s Noise: As you count down to the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat’s intestines, if ingested, perhaps necessitating surgery. Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage to sensitive ears. And remember that many pets are also scared of fireworks, so be sure to secure them in a safe, escape-proof area as midnight approaches.
Costume parties, brunch and fun runs – and all dog friendly! Check out this list of things you can do in Indy this fall with your furry friends.
Fall is upon us, and with it comes more dog-friendly events that are perfect opportunities for outdoor fun. The Good Dog Hotel & Spa team in Broad Ripple loves keeping tabs on all the happenings in our community, and has named some of the top picks for the season.
Whether you want to work up a sweat with your pooch, get in the spirit of Halloween, or just hang out and enjoy the scenery, there are plenty of outings to choose from. We hope you find time to get out and enjoy!
Sundays in September & October
7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Conner’s Kitchen + Bar, Indianapolis
If you love Sunday brunch, you’ll love hanging out on the patio at Conner’s Kitchen + Bar during Yappy Hour. Your four-legged bestie will get a free treat from Three Dog Bakery, and each human will get a free corn muffin. Even better, a portion of the proceeds from every pint of Metazoa craft beer on tap sold during Yappy Hour will be donated to FACE, a local low-cost spay/neuter clinic.
Sunday, September 16
6 p.m.
Three Dog Bakery, Broad Ripple
Sunday, October 21
6 p.m.
Three Dog Bakery, Noblesville
Join two- and four-legged runners for a special pop-up Cooper’s Fun Run on Sunday afternoons, August 19th at Three Dog Bakery in Broad Ripple, and October 21 at Hamilton Town Center. Stick around afterward for treats and time with friends, plus a raffle drawing.
This is an all-ages event. Dogs on leashes, kids and strollers are welcome. Suggested donations of $10 are accepted in lieu of a registration fee. All money raised will benefit Indy Humane. Cooper’s Fun Run merchandise – including sweatshirts, t-shirts, hats, stickers, and coffee – will be for sale at the event with 10% of all proceeds donated to Indy Humane.
Sunday, September 23
Noon – 6 p.m.
Bier Brewery & Tap Room, Indianapolis
“A Local Pure Bred Mutt Dog Show” is presented by Bier Brewery & Spay-Neuter Services of Indiana. If your dog has a knack for friendly competition, you’ll love this gathering. There will be first, second and third place prizes awarded to a total of seven categories, including the: Will Do Tricks for Treats Group; Strut Group; and Best Wiggly Butt Group. A portion of the proceeds goes towards Spay-Neuter Services of Indiana and includes a bier ticket! Bier Brewery opens at noon. Registration closes at 1p.m. First grouping starts at 1:30 p.m., with additional groupings every half hour.
Sunday, September 23
1 – 5 p.m.
Mallow Run Winery, Bargersville
Join an expected crowd of 500 at Mallow Run Winery in Bargersville for the 8th Annual family-friendly Labapalooza. Enjoy an afternoon of adorable pups, live music, food and wine. Visit the Love of Labs website for more information, including the full list of bands performing. The winery is open from noon – 6 p.m. Free admission. Wine available for purchase by the glass or bottle. All non-Mallow Run alcohol is prohibited by Indiana law.
Saturday, October 6
Noon – 5 p.m.
The Vet, New Palestine
This free event is an afternoon of fun, featuring a Pet Costume Contest, Smiling Dog Photography photos and Youngblood Animal Massage Therapy. Attendees can enjoy plenty of food and the wares of local vendors, and prize baskets will be awarded.
Saturday, October 8
11:30 a.m. – 6 pm.
Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, Fishers
It’s all about “Pets, Love, and Rock & Roll” at Indiana’s largest, pet friendly music festival, featuring dozens of vendors, activities for kids and canines, live music, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, and more. No backpacks or coolers are allowed inside the event.
Saturday, October 20
Noon – 5 p.m.
Buck Creek Farm, Indianapolis
This festival to benefit Tails & Trails Rescue includes live music, animal rescues, merchant booths, contests and more. Bring Fido to enjoy an afternoon out in the country with auctions, games, craft beer and demonstrations! Note: attendees can save time by filling out the registration form and waiver in advance.
Saturday, October 27
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Asa Bales Park, Westfield
Bring your furry friend and help support the Humane Society for Hamilton County.
You will find pet-related vendors at the Mutt Mart, activities for humans and dogs at the Canine Cabana, a canine agility course inside of the Agility Arena, a chance to win prizes at Humane Society Hut, and a pet costume contest. In addition, there will be plenty of food vendors offering a variety of menus. All proceeds will be donated to the Humane Society for Hamilton County.
Wednesday, October 31
7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Good Dog Hotel & Spa, Broad Ripple
Calling all Good Dog Hotel doggies! It’s going to be a fun day on Halloween, especially since Tiki will be in costume and strutting his stuff for the party, which will include cider and cookies for all! Any pooch who comes in costume will get a voucher for a free day of daycare (for future use). Even better, if one or two owners show up in costume, you get another free day of daycare each. So, for example, if two owners come in with two dogs, all dressed in costumes, you’ll receive a total of four vouchers. It’s all a part of Halloween fun for our team at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa. We can’t wait to see you there!
Labor Day weekend tips for keeping your dogs safe and healthy during outdoor gatherings.
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Labor Day is a special time to acknowledge and appreciate workers in America, but for many, it’s also an unofficial celebration of the end of summer. And one of the most popular ways to mark the holiday weekend is with a backyard barbecue.
Many of us at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa in Broad Ripple can appreciate that, because who doesn’t love a chance to spend time with family, friends – and of course, our family pets? But all those outdoor gatherings can also include potential hazards for our furry friends.
We’ve put together some of the most common safety concerns for Labor Day weekend, or any other time you throw or attend an outdoor party. The team at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa wishes you a safe and wonderful Labor Day weekend.
Outdoor Grilling
• Charcoal. While charcoal isn’t poisonous, if ingested, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea, or a lack of appetite. Large pieces could even lead to obstruction. Make sure to pick up any wayward pieces immediately.
• Heat. Obviously, your grill will be hot. But smaller grills that are less stable can be jostled and even tipped by running children and pets. Your grill master should keep an eye out to ward off possible accidents.
• Food drippings. If ingested, the grease, fat and drippings from meat can lead to an inflammation of the pancreas – or worse. Look for symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain. And again, be alert for any liquids and other matter that need cleaning immediately.
The Menu
• Bones. It’s so tempting, but avoid giving your dog the leftover bones (and keep them out of reach in a dog-proof trash bin). Bones can get lodged in the teeth or throat, splinter, and even puncture the intestinal tract.
• Corn on the cob. Corn isn’t toxic for dogs, but when it’s on the cob, a chunk can be swallowed and cause blockage. Again, make sure those cobs get thrown away quickly and in that same dog-proof trash bin.
• Grapes. Fruit trays are staples in most spreads this time of year, and most fruits are perfectly fine for dogs (in moderation). Grapes, on the other hand, can result in a toxicity concern, and even kidney failure. Keep your eye out for wayward grapes (and raisins too).
• Desserts. The dessert table is always tempting, but remember to keep anything chocolate away from your dog’s reach Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, agitation/hyperactivity, a rapid heartbeat, tremors, and seizures.
• Sugar substitute. If you’re baking recipes include Xylitol, which is a natural sugar substitute, beware. Even small pieces of baked goods containing xylitol can cause a life-threatening drop in the blood glucose (hypoglycemia), and possibly liver failure.
Other Safety Concerns
• Decorative open flames. Petroleum distillates include gasoline, kerosene, mineral oil, lamp oil and paint thinner. Some of these are used in Tiki torches and other types of outdoor candles and votives, and are very irritating to the skin and stomach. But the greatest danger for your dog occurs when the substance is ingested and then vomited, when the liquid can slide into the lungs (aspiration). This could cause immediate coughing/wheezing, choking and even sudden death. If left untreated, this could be very dangerous and could cause a chemical pneumonia. If it gets on your dog’s skin, wash quickly with a dish soap to prevent further irritation.
• Bug Sprays. Most brands are a low toxic risk when ingested or applied to the skin, but some may cause mild irritation to the skin of sensitive pets. If this is the case, bathe your dog with dish soap to quickly remove the spray. Products with high concentrations of DEET can cause toxicity following heavy application or ingestion. When applying the spray, stand away from your pets to avoid getting it in their eyes or nose/mouth, and keep the containers out of reach.
It’s back-to-school time, and for families with kids at home that probably means shopping for supplies, organizing schedules, and getting back in a regular routine. It can be a stressful time for humans, and your dogs can be affected as well.
Many of us at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa are dealing with it too, including team members and customers alike. We know and see how this time of transition can impact your dog – he may feel neglected, confused and even show signs of depression. Here are behaviors to look for, and things you can do to help your pooch through this difficult time.
Signs of Depression & Anxiety
Dogs can suffer from depression and anxiety, just like humans. This can often happen when your students go off to school, and suddenly his or her playmates are gone. Keep an eye out for these signs.
Depression:
• Listlessness
• Cowering or hiding
• Low energy
• Loss of appetite
• Inactivity
• Lack of interest in playing
Separation Anxiety:
• Destructive chewing
• Extreme barking and whining
• Going to the bathroom in the house
• Frenzied clawing to get out through windows, doors, or fences
If your dog is suffering from depression, for example, he might be lethargic and stay in his bed when a family member gets home. If he’s suffering from separation anxiety, on the other hand, he’ll be frenzied and hyper in the same situation.
How to Help Your Dog
There are simple things you can do to help your dog and prevent or provide relief from depression and anxiety. However, keep in mind that if the back-to-school experience is new to your pooch, it might take a little more time. It all comes down to establishing a routine and making sure plenty of exercise and attention is involved.
Morning activity: Exercising your dog early in the day will be key. Include family members in creating a schedule, and take turns spending an extra 15 minutes every morning taking her for a walk or playing in the yard before leaving for school or work. This helps her feel loved and burns energy, which reduces the chance for destruction in your absence.
Departure time: When it’s time for your student (or anyone else in the household) to leave, don’t make it a big production. Pet your dog just as you normally would, but refrain from showing emotion, as he can sense it if you are distraught or upset. Use a new toy or special treat as a distraction, and consider leaving a radio or television on as a soothing mechanism during your absence.
Afternoon break: Plan on having a family member go home around midday if possible, so your dog can get out for some quick exercise. This helps break up her alone time, and allows her to run or play off some energy. If your schedule doesn’t allow for an afternoon break, consider soliciting help from a neighbor or hiring a dog walker. Another good solution is to take her to a dog daycare two or three times a week.
End of school/work day: When you or your student gets back home for the day, refrain from making it a big production. Why? Because if you do, dogs with anxiety will conclude that you’ve been gone forever. The better approach is to ignore him when you first get home, then after a few minutes, greet your dog in a calm manner and take him outside for a bathroom break, if needed.
Evening activity: No matter your daytime responsibilities, evenings are usually hectic during the school year. Because the focus turns to dinner, homework and after school activities, it’s easy to put your dog on the back burner. Remember that she has been waiting all day for your attention, and is sure to have built up some energy that needs to be burned. Take her out for play and exercise every evening after dinner or at a time that suits your family.
Getting back into the swing of school is an adjustment for everyone, including your pooch. If you notice any signs of depression or anxiety that don’t improve over time – or even worsen – contact your veterinarian.
Check out these late summer events in the Indianapolis area you can enjoy with your dog – and other humans.
Late summer is the perfect time to get out and about with your favorite furry friends. Plus, our team at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa loves running into our regular dog daycare and hotel guests at special community events. Check out some of the happenings going on in the Indianapolis area soon. We hope to see you out and about having fun in the months to come.
This summer social and dog-friendly event at Metazoa Brewing will be the second installment of their event series: Homegrown. Homegrown is a laid-back event for creatives. Whether you like to mingle or observe, you’ll have a summery good time. Attendees can participate in an outdoor chalk art contest and a social media photo contest – prizes will be awarded. There will be additional games and snacks provided by Metazoa. And a perk for AIGA members over 21: your first beer is free.
Enjoy a morning run from one of downtown’s newest coffee bars. This untimed 3-mile run or walk will start and finish at Foundry Provisions, 236 East 16th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202. Stick around afterward and enjoy samples of Tinker Coffee and time with friends. As always, listen for your name in the raffle drawing. Dogs on leashes, kids and strollers are welcome. Suggested donations of $10 are accepted in lieu of a registration fee. All money raised will benefit Back on My Feet Indianapolis as they combat homelessness in our city.
The 2nd Annual Pups and Pints Series is presented by Indy Animal Eye Clinic, and is held every third Friday of each month, beginning in May. It’s “Yappy Hour” for you and your dog – a night on the town for pups to hang out and socialize with other four legged friends. Enjoy treats from vendors, and socializing with other humans. Grab a pint for you, water for your pups, and let the fun begin.
Picasso Puppies
August 18, noon – 3 p.m.
Garfield Park, Indianapolis
Picasso Puppies is an opportunity to create pet-friendly art pieces with four-legged friends and to meet adoptable dogs. Nontoxic paints and other doggie-safe materials will be provided to create keepsakes with pets, including a Robert Indiana “LOVE”-inspired painting and a clay paw print ornament. Activity fee is $10.
In addition to the art projects, guests can participate in a dog kissing booth, silent auction and collaborative art projects. A wading pool and hose will be available to keep pets cool in the heat. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Register at www.indyparks.org or call 317-327-PARK.
One of Indy’s favorite dog-and-suds event, Ales for Adoptable Tails is hosted by Tomlinson Tap Room and the Indianapolis City Market. This is a benefit for IndyHumane that brings together some of the Midwest’s greatest brewers for an event like no other. Attendees can enjoy beer, food and dancing to live music. Meet adoptable pets from IndyHumane’s Pet Adoption Wagon and win raffle prizes.
Ticket purchases benefit IndyHumane and homeless pets in Central Indiana.
Basic and VIP tickets available at $20 – $30. For more information, visit indyhumane.org/indypaaw or contact indypaaw@indyhumane.org.
Designated Driver/Under 21 Ticket: A donation of $5 or more is suggested.
Help celebrate National Dog Day with this third annual virtual event. Complete a 5K or 10K anytime in August with your favorite four-legged friend. 15% of every registration will be donated to Freedom Service Dogs of America, a nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by rescuing dogs and custom training them for individual client needs. Clients include children, veterans and active duty military, and other adults. Their disabilities include autism, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and post-traumatic stress disorder. By completing a virtual 5K or 10K, you’ll receive a Day of the Dog Medal, plus an attached dog tag for your dog. To register, visit the event website.
Join Metazoa Brewing Co. for the first annual Indy Pet Parade & Tappings Party. Attendees are invited to walk in the pet parade through Fletcher Place neighborhood, followed by a party at Metazoa Brewing Co. that will feature live music, food trucks, local vendors & more. You must be 21 or older to attend the Indy Pet Parade, Tapping Party and/or enter the Metazoa taproom. The parade route is 1.54 miles. Costumes and festive outfits are highly encouraged. For more information, or to register and purchase tickets, visit this event website.
Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about dog adoption from local rescues as well as other dog-related companies in the area. Enjoy yappy-hour music, games, giveaways and much more. Admission is free. For event directions and information, click here.
What can you say about a dog? Plenty – check out these awesome quotes for dog lovers that’ll make you smile.
It’s no surprise that most of the conversations at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa have something to do with dogs. Whether it’s furry friends playing at our dog daycare, or overnight guests at our Good Dog Hotel, we love and care for all our visitors. It’s difficult to express how much we enjoy working with dogs every day (and how it enhances our lives), so we thought we’d let others do it for us.
Here are some of our favorite quotes for dog lovers. Some are funny and others are philosophical, but we appreciate them all. We hope you enjoy them too.
1. Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail. – Kinky Friedman
2. My little dog – a heartbeat at my feet. – Edith Wharton
3. It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog. – Mark Twain
4. No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversation as the dog does. – Christopher Morley
5. I love women, but I feel like you can’t trust some of them. Some of them are liars, you know? Like I was in the park and I met this girl, she was cute and she had a dog. And I went up to her, we started talking. She told me her dog’s name. Then I said, ‘Does he bite?’ She said, ‘No.’ And I said, ‘Oh yeah? Then how does he eat?’ Liar. – Demetri Martin
6. Outside of a dog, a book is a man’s best friend. Inside of a dog it’s too dark to read. – Groucho Marx
7. When the dog looks at you, the dog is not thinking what kind of a person you are. The dog is not judging you. – Eckhart Tolle
8. Fall in love with a dog, and in many ways you enter a new orbit, a universe that features not just new colors but new rituals, new rules, a new way of experiencing attachment. – Caroline Knapp
9. Your best ideas, those eureka moments that turn the world upside down, seldom come when you’re juggling emails, rushing to meet the 5 p.m. deadline or straining to make your voice heard in a high-stress meeting. They come when you’re walking the dog, soaking in the bath or swinging in a hammock. – Carl Honore
10. Don’t accept your dog’s admiration as conclusive evidence that you are wonderful. – Ann Landers
11. When a man’s best friend is his dog, that dog has a problem. – Edward Abbey
12. You want a friend in Washington? Get a dog. – Harry S Truman
13. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring – it was peace. – Milan Kundera
14. My main characters are the most sunny, happy, optimistic, loving creatures on the face of the Earth. I couldn’t be happier that’s where I start. I can put as many flawed people in the dog’s world as I like, but the dog doesn’t care. Dog doesn’t judge. Dog doesn’t dislike. Dog loves. That’s not so bad. – W. Bruce Cameron
15. A boy can learn a lot from a dog: obedience, loyalty, and the importance of turning around three times before lying down. – Robert Benchley
16. If a dog will not come to you after having looked you in the face, you should go home and examine your conscience. – Woodrow Wilson
17. I have never met a dog I couldn’t help; however, I have met humans who weren’t willing to change. – Cesar Millan
18. My fashion philosophy is, if you’re not covered in dog hair, your life is empty. – Elayne Boosler
19. I read the Odyssey because it was the story of a man who returned home after being absent for more than twenty years and was recognized only by his dog. – Guillermo Cabrera Infante
20. You cannot share your life with a dog, as I had done in Bournemouth, or a cat, and not know perfectly well that animals have personalities and minds and feelings. – Jane Goodall
21. The great pleasure of a dog is that you may make a fool of yourself with him and not only will he not scold you, but he will make a fool of himself too. – Samuel Butler
Four famous dogs who took their place in history for being a part of something big, ranging from land exploration and a cross country road trip, to providing service to humans.
Bud Nelson
We know how awesome dogs are. After all, we get to witness their behavior and varied personalities every day at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa. Whether they are staying overnight, or visiting during the day at our doggie daycare, we see them do some pretty amazing things all the time.
So, it’s no surprise that dogs have quite a place in history. And even though there’s no way we can list them all, here are five of the most well-known dogs and how they’ve contributed to our world. We hope you enjoy.
Bud Nelson: The first dog to travel across the U.S. by automobile.
The story: Horatio Nelson Jackson was an American physician and automobile pioneer. In 1903, he and driving partner Sewall K. Crocker became the first people to drive an automobile across the United States. The expedition began in San Francisco, but somewhere near Caldwell, Idaho, Jackson and Crocker obtained a dog, a Pit Bull named Bud. As it turns out, Jackson had wanted a dog companion since Sacramento. Newspapers at the time gave a variety of stories of how Bud was acquired, including that he was stolen. But in a letter to his wife, Nelson said a man sold him the dog for $15 (equivalent to $409 in 2017). It turned out that the dusty alkali flats the travelers encountered would bother Bud’s eyes so much (the car had neither a roof nor windshield) that Jackson eventually fitted him with a pair of goggles. At one point, Bud drank bad water and became ill, but survived. They arrived in New York City on July 26, 1903, 63 days, 12 hours, and 30 minutes after commencing their journey in San Francisco, in the first automobile to successfully transit the North American continent. Their trip expended over 800 gallons of gasoline.
Chinook: The dog team leader for the Byrd Antarctic Expeditions and dubbed an All-American Dog in in the 1920s.
The story: The Chinook breed owes its existence to Arthur Treadwell Walden of Wonalancet, New Hampshire. The breed derives principally from one male ancestor born in 1917, named “Chinook”, who was Walden’s lead dog and stud. “Chinook” derived from a crossbreeding of husky stock from the Peary North Pole expedition with a large, tawny Mastiff-like male. Photos of “Chinook” show a drop-eared dog with a broad Mastiff head and muzzle. Walden’s leader was bred to Belgian Sheepdogs, German Shepherd Dogs, Canadian Eskimo Dogs and perhaps other breeds; the progeny was bred back to him to set the desired type and was apparently a strong reproducer of his own traits.
Arthur Walden was a dog driver with years of experience in the Yukon; he was the lead driver and trainer on Byrd’s 1929 Antarctic expedition. He is credited with bringing sled dog sports to New England and with founding the New England Sled Dog Club in 1924. Unfortunately, the 12-year-old “Chinook” was lost on the Byrd expedition.
Seaman: Member of the first American overland expedition.
The story: Seaman, a Newfoundland dog, became famous for being a member of the first American overland expedition from the Mississippi River to the Pacific coast and back. He was the only animal to complete the entire trip. He was purchased for $20 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania by Captain Meriwether Lewis while he was in the city awaiting completion of the boats for the voyage in August 1803, for his famed Lewis and Clark expedition.
Endal: A male Labrador retriever in Britain whose abilities as a service dog and as an ambassador for service dog charitable work received worldwide news media coverage.
The story: Among other distinctions, Endal was described as “the most decorated dog in the world” (including Dog of the Millennium and the PDSA Gold Medal for Animal Gallantry and Devotion to Duty, the highest award available to an animal) and possibly the most famous assistance dog in the UK. He was filmed by over 340 film crews from around the world, and had a number of world “firsts” as an assistance dog to his credit.
Looking to get some playtime in at a dog-friendly park or outdoor space? Here’s a list of Indianapolis area dog parks for you and your pooch.
If you’re looking to spend some quality playtime with your favorite furry friend in outdoor spaces, we’ve got you covered. Of course, our favorite play area is the Good Dog Hotel & Spa in Broad Ripple. Our Dog Daycare has both indoor and outdoor space, and our guests are full of energy and ready to play.
But if you’re looking to get outside in a neighborhood near you, there are plenty of dog parks to choose from. Here are some of the most popular. And if you have your own favorite dog-friendly space to enjoy outdoors, please let us know! Leave all the details in the comment section below.
Broad Ripple Park (est. 1946) borders the White River and has a rich history in the community. Broad Ripple Park features a family center, a seasonal swimming pool, playgrounds, picnic shelters, picnic knolls, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, multi-use athletic fields, woods, fitness trail and a bark park. To purchase a daily or annual dog park pass, visit the Family Center office or call (317) 327-7161.
The Dog Park is located on the north side of the Fort Harrison State Park property, and cannot be reached by entering through the Main Gate or from inside the main body of the park – it’s located on the north side of Fall Creek. The dog park has three separately fenced play areas. Platoon Run, closest to Fall Creek Road, is around 3.6 acres. It has numerous large trees for shade and a wooded area on the west end. Herrin Hill is about 1.3 acres and is located in the middle of the dog park. This area is mostly open grass, but does have some trees offering limited shade. Brigade Landing is approximately 5 acres and includes a pond and a larger wooded “adventure” area for exploration (Brigade Landing is currently under construction and not open to the public). Passes can be purchased at the Visitor’s Center at Fort Harrison State Park (enter at 59th St and N. Post Rd), from 8:30am‐4:00pm, Monday‐Friday.
Eagle Creek’s bark park is a place where owners and their four-legged friends can socialize and enjoy the company of others off-leash. One of the Indy Parks and Recreation Canine Companion Zones (CCZ), to participate, your dog must be equipped with a Pooch Pass. Pooch passes consist of a tag for your dog and a gate access card for you. For Pooch Pass pricing and purchase location, visit the dog park website.
Central Indiana’s first pet park is on the campus of the Humane Society of Indianapolis. The park is a place for owners to hang out with their pets in a safe, fenced area. Watch Rover romp through the canine agility course while you and your family relax at picnic tables. You can also hike through 1.5 miles of wooded trails. Annual registration is $75 for your first dog and $50 for each additional. You will be given a key fob to the Pet Park, which allows you to use the park even if the shelter is closed. Call (317) 872-5650 for membership information.
This 82-acre park was acquired in 1970 and features beautiful trails, a small fishing pond and playground, making it a popular attraction on the east and south sides of Indianapolis. Pooch Passes for the bark park can be purchased at Post Road Park, 1313 S. Post Road. For more information, call (317) 327-0143.
Smock Bark Park – 4200 E County Line Rd, Indianapolis IN 46237
One of the Indy Parks and Recreation Canine Companion Zones (CCZ), the Smock Bark Park features a large fenced-in area and offers space for your dog to run off leash and socialize with other dogs. To participate, your dog must be equipped with a Pooch Pass, which can be obtained from one of the Indy Parks locations participating.
The 423-square-foot park is equipped with play stations like a doggie crawl and “king of the hill.” The enclosure is free to the public and open during daylight hours seven days a week. Located behind Kona Grill and near St. Vincent Sports Performance. Open to all dogs, rules apply posted at entrance. No proof of veterinary care is required.
Waggin’ Tails Bark Park is part of the Louis J. Jenn Memorial Park, and features obstacle training equipment, benches, and a double-bubbler water fountain that serves both humans and canines. Memberships are limited to 500 humans. One-year memberships for Lawrence residents are $40 per dog. Non-residents may join for $50 per dog. All members must pay a one-time key deposit of $25. Residents who wish to join should bring a completed application and their Lawrence water bill (for proof of residency) to the Parks and Recreation Department at 8950 Otis Ave. For more information, call (317) 549-4815.
Fall is upon us, and with it comes more dog-friendly events that are perfect opportunities for outdoor fun. The 
