Gilbert, Arizona, with its sunny skies and warm hospitality, is a welcoming destination for dog owners. The city is home to Cosmo Dog Park, renowned for its amenities including a dog-friendly lake. Gilbert’s extensive trail system, like the Riparian Preserve trails, provides scenic routes ideal for dog walking. The mild climate, especially in the cooler months, allows for enjoyable outdoor activities year-round with your furry friend.

In Gilbert, the community embraces a pet-friendly lifestyle, evident in numerous dog-friendly restaurants and cafes. Outdoor dining spots frequently accommodate dogs, ensuring a pleasant mealtime experience for both pets and owners. Moreover, Gilbert frequently hosts dog-centric events, reflecting its inclusive and vibrant community spirit. The town also offers a variety of pet-friendly accommodations, making it easy to plan a comfortable stay with your canine companion.

Should You Travel with Your Dog?

Whether or not you should travel with your dog depends on your dog’s personality and health. If your dog gets anxious easily, bringing them on a trip isn’t ideal. However, some dogs are great at adapting to new situations and love exploring different places, so those dogs would probably do well on the go.

Regardless of your dog’s temperament, there may be times when they need to travel with you, such as if you’re moving to a new location. If that’s the case, you may need to take extra precautions to ensure they’re as comfortable as possible. That could include stopping more frequently during a long drive or asking your vet about whether or not medications could help.

What to Pack When Traveling with Your Dog

Your dog may not need as much stuff as you do for a trip, but they still need the essentials. Plus, bringing items that look and smell familiar to your furry friend can help them feel more comfortable.

Here’s a list of supplies you should bring for your dog:

Up-to-date identification tags
Collar, harness, and leash
Plenty of healthy dog food
Medications (if they have any)
Pet first aid kit
Food and water dishes (collapsible bowls are the most convenient)
Poop bags
Vet records (some airlines, hotels, and events may require them)
Crate (if you need to confine your dog in the hotel)
Dog seat belt for car (unless you’re keeping them in a crate)
Airline carrier (if you’re flying)
Treats, toys, dog bed, and anything else that could help your dog feel more comfortable

This list is just a general guide of things you may need. Your packing list may vary based on where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and what activities you have planned. If you have space to spare, it can’t hurt to pack extra pet supplies out of caution.

What to Include in a Dog First Aid Kit

A dog first aid kit should include essential items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, a thermometer, and a muzzle for safety. It’s also important to have saline solution for eye washing and a blanket for shock or cold. For a complete list of everything you need, see a comprehensive dog first aid guide here!

Finding a Dog-Friendly Hotel

While planning your trip, make sure you find a dog-friendly place to stay. Many lodging options, whether they’re a large hotel chain or a small local property, are willing to allow pets with some restrictions. The best way to know if your dog is welcome is to call the property before booking.

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Other Lodging Options

Even though most popular hotel chains allow pets to some extent, they still might not be the right choice for you. Many prevent large dogs or more than two dogs at a time. Some may also prevent you from leaving your dog alone in the hotel, which can be difficult if you have some plans that aren’t pet-friendly. In this case, consider finding your pup a pet sitter who can take care of your dog while you’re enjoying a quiet dinner, seeing the sights or even taking in a show.

Book a Rover dog sitter and give your dog the best day ever!

So, if you’re struggling to find a good hotel, you may want to check other types of lodging, such as campgrounds or booking sites like Airbnb and Vrbo. Those options are often more flexible with pet restrictions because they don’t need to follow the policies of big chain hotels. Like with hotels, you should always contact the property to get the most detailed information on their pet restrictions.

Dog-Friendly Transportation Options

For most dogs, the scariest part of going on a trip is getting there. Dogs who aren’t used to riding in a car are likely to be anxious during a road trip and even more so on an airplane. So, here are some tips for how to keep your dog safe and comfortable when heading to your destination.

Driving with Your Dog

If possible, driving long distances with your dog will usually be easier and more comfortable than flying, especially if you have a large breed. However, you should make sure your dog is okay with riding in the car before you bring them on a road trip. If they don’t ride in the car much on a regular basis, start by taking them for short drives in preparation for the trip.

Here are some tips for taking a road trip with your dog:

Get your dog’s energy out before the long drive (take them for a walk, play fetch, etc.)
Make sure your dog is secure and comfortable (use a crate or dog seat belt, and make sure they have a cozy bed)
Stop more often than you need to so your dog can stretch their legs and do their business
Offer your dog fresh water every time you stop
Never leave your dog alone in the car on a warm/hot day

Flying with Your Dog

Most dogs have ridden in the car at one point or another, but flying with your dog is a much different experience. If your dog is under 20 pounds, they can ride in the cabin on most airlines, but if your dog is larger than that, they may have to fly in the cargo hold. Not being able to see your dog during the flight can be stressful, which is why families with larger dogs typically prefer to drive when possible.

Almost every airline allows dogs, but some have stricter rules than others. Always check an airline’s pet policy before planning to fly on it with your pup.

How to Travel with an Anxious Dog

If you have an anxious dog, driving and flying might both seem tricky. Luckily, there are things you can do to help a stressed-out dog feel more at ease while on the go.

Get your dog familiar with travel – take them to places they enjoy, such as the park, instead of only the vet.
Bring familiar items, such as their favorite beds and toys.
Keep their feeding times and bathroom breaks as close to their normal routine as possible.
Give them lots of exercise before getting in the car or entering the airport.
Stay calm – your dog may pick up on if you’re stressed and become more worried as a result.
Try anti-anxiety products, such as ThunderShirts and heartbeat toys.

While the above tips may reduce your dog’s anxiety, extremely anxious dogs will likely still show some fear in unfamiliar situations. Pet CBD Products, such as those made by Cannanine, can help calm down nervous pups during travel. Cannanine offers CBD oil and soft chews, both of which effectively calm dogs while being THC-free. Plus, every Cannanine product purchased donates meals to shelter dogs.

Top Tourist Attractions in Gilbert, Arizona

Gilbert, Arizona, is a rapidly growing town with a unique blend of agricultural heritage and modern amenities, offering a variety of attractions and events for tourists:

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch: This ecological sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers, with over 200 species of birds observed. It offers walking trails, fishing, and educational programs.
Downtown Gilbert (Heritage District): Known for its charming ambiance, this area is a hub for dining and entertainment. It’s home to popular restaurants, shops, and the iconic Hale Centre Theatre.
Gilbert Historical Museum: Situated in the Heritage District, this museum showcases the rich history of Gilbert with exhibits that reflect the town’s evolution from an agricultural community to a thriving modern city.
Freestone Park: A family-friendly park featuring playgrounds, a miniature train, a carousel, sports facilities, and picnic areas, ideal for a day out with the family.
Gilbert Farmers Market: Held weekly in the downtown area, this market features local produce, artisan goods, and food trucks, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Gilbert Art Walk: This seasonal event in the Heritage District showcases works from local artists, offering a great opportunity to explore the local art scene.
Hale Centre Theatre: Known for its high-quality, family-friendly productions, this theatre is a cultural gem in Gilbert, providing entertainment for all ages.
Gilbert Days: An annual celebration that includes a parade, rodeo, and carnival, Gilbert Days is a tribute to the town’s heritage and community spirit.
Agritopia: A unique agricultural community that promotes urban farming, Agritopia is home to organic farms, residential areas, and the popular Joe’s Farm Grill, offering a farm-to-table dining experience.
SanTan Village: An open-air shopping center that offers a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, perfect for a day of shopping and leisure.

These attractions and events highlight Gilbert’s commitment to preserving its history while embracing modernity, offering a diverse and enriching experience for visitors.

Picking Activities Your Dog Can Join in Gilbert, Arizona

If you’re traveling with your dog for vacation, you should make sure they can join you for most, if not all, of your activities. Since dogs aren’t allowed indoors in many places, you should travel when the weather is nice to ensure you can spend time outside with your furry friend.

Gilbert, Arizona, offers numerous dog-friendly activities, making it a great place for visitors with canine companions. Here are some of the highlights:

Dog Parks: Gilbert is home to several dog parks, including the popular Cosmo Dog Park, which features a lake where dogs can swim, and fenced areas for safe off-leash play. Other notable parks include the Discovery District Park and Crossroads District Park.
Walking and Hiking Trails: The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch provides trails where dogs on leashes can enjoy walks alongside their owners, set against a backdrop of beautiful natural scenery and wildlife.
Outdoor Dining: Many restaurants in Gilbert offer dog-friendly patios. Places like Joe’s Farm Grill and Liberty Market welcome dogs in their outdoor dining areas, allowing you and your pet to enjoy a meal together.
Shopping Centers: Outdoor shopping areas like SanTan Village are pet-friendly, allowing you to shop and browse with your dog by your side.
Community Events: Gilbert often hosts dog-friendly events such as pet fairs, adoption events, and community gatherings in parks where pets are welcome.
Parks and Recreational Areas: In addition to dog-specific parks, many of Gilbert’s general parks allow leashed dogs, making them perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with your furry friend.
Dog-Friendly Accommodations: There are several pet-friendly hotels in Gilbert, ensuring that you have a comfortable place to stay with your dog.
Pet Boutiques and Services: Gilbert has a variety of pet boutiques and grooming services where you can pamper your pet or pick up special treats and accessories.

Engaging in these activities can enhance your visit to Gilbert, making it enjoyable not just for you but also for your dog. This is just a list to get you started because the dog-friendly activities will vary based on where you’re visiting. While most outdoor events welcome pets as long as they’re well-behaved and you clean up after them, it’s always a good idea to check the event’s details to be sure. With enough planning and good weather, you can hang out with your dog the entire vacation!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there any dog-friendly hotels in Gilbert?

Yes, Gilbert offers several pet-friendly hotels like Hyatt Place Phoenix/Gilbert and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Phoenix-Gilbert, which provide amenities for your furry friend.

2. Can I bring my dog to restaurants in Gilbert?

Many restaurants in Gilbert have dog-friendly outdoor patios. Places like Joe’s Farm Grill and Liberty Market welcome dogs in their outdoor dining areas.

3. What are the best dog parks in Gilbert?

Cosmo Dog Park is highly popular among locals and visitors for its great amenities, including a dog-friendly lake. Other good options are Discovery District Park and Crossroads District Park.

4. Are there any hiking or walking trails suitable for dogs?

The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch offers lovely walking trails where dogs on leashes are welcome, amidst scenic natural beauty and wildlife.

5. Is downtown Gilbert dog-friendly?

The Heritage District in downtown Gilbert is somewhat dog-friendly, with several shops and eateries allowing pets in outdoor areas.

6. Does Gilbert host any dog-centric events?

Gilbert often hosts dog-friendly events, including pet adoption fairs and community gatherings in parks.

7. Can I take my dog shopping in Gilbert?

Yes, outdoor shopping areas like SanTan Village are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy shopping with your pet.

8. Do I need to keep my dog on a leash in public areas?

Yes, dogs should be kept on a leash in public areas, except in designated off-leash areas like dog parks.

9. Where can I find emergency veterinary care in Gilbert?

Gilbert has several veterinary clinics and hospitals. It’s wise to know the location of the nearest one to your accommodation in case of emergencies.

10. Are there any pet supply stores in Gilbert?

Gilbert offers various pet supply stores like PetSmart and Petco, where you can find food, toys, and accessories for your dog.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with a dog to Gilbert, Arizona, can be a delightful experience, thanks to the town’s warm, pet-friendly atmosphere and array of activities that cater to canine companions. Here are some final thoughts to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit:

Climate Considerations: Gilbert’s desert climate means hot summers and mild winters. It’s important to protect your dog from the heat, ensuring they have plenty of water, avoiding hot pavement, and scheduling outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
Choose Pet-Friendly Accommodations: There are several dog-friendly hotels in Gilbert. Ensure you understand their pet policies, including any fees or size restrictions, to find the best fit for you and your pet.
Explore Outdoor Spaces: Take advantage of Gilbert’s parks and trails. Places like the Riparian Preserve offer beautiful, natural environments perfect for leisurely walks with your dog.
Dining with Dogs: Enjoy Gilbert’s array of dog-friendly restaurants and cafes, especially those with outdoor seating, where your pet can join you for a meal.
Respect Local Guidelines: Always adhere to local pet regulations, including leash laws and cleaning up after your pet, to maintain a welcoming environment for all visitors.
Stay Hydrated and Protected: The dry, often warm climate requires both pets and owners to stay hydrated. Be mindful of your dog’s exposure to the sun and heat, particularly during summer months.
Emergency Preparedness: Know the location of nearby veterinary services. Having this information readily available can be crucial in case of an emergency.
Enjoy the Community Spirit: Gilbert’s pet-friendly events and social scene offer great opportunities to meet local residents and other travelers with their pets.

Traveling to Gilbert with your dog not only enhances your own experience but also allows you to explore the town from a unique perspective. With its welcoming community and variety of dog-friendly activities, Gilbert is an excellent destination for those wishing to experience their adventures alongside their furry friends.

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