4 minute read

Road trips are epic for so many reasons. You get to discover the length and breadth of your country at your leisurely pace. Taking along your pet pooches is a bonus.

Exploring new places off the beaten track allows you to experience new and exciting things. Plus, passing through cities you’ve never been to before adds a level of excitement.

When road-tripping again with your furry pals, take a U-turn into Nashville TN. You won’t regret it.

Mind Your Manners

Being a guest in another town or city requires some decorum. Etiquette starts with you picking up after your pet. If staying at a friend’s home or a guesthouse, always mind your dog’s manners.

Here’s where a reputable pet waste pickup service in Nashville will come in handy. Dog owners don’t get tied into any contracts and decide how often they need their services.

Believe it or not, many companies offer an affordable service and work around your schedule. Professional dog waste removal relieves the headache of doing dirty work and keeps your hands clean.

Pet waste removal services include coming to where you are, doing a thorough search and removing all dog poop from outdoor spaces.

Scoop Soldiers advises customers to request an estimate online or by talking directly to staff. That way, you’ll know what you’re paying for upfront.

Now that we’ve spoken about the house rules, we’ll move on to the fun part of visiting Nashville!

#1. A Gumball Machine for Dogs

Doug Owen’s East Nashville neighborhood is a constant hub of lively dogs and kids playing on the sidewalks.

While working from his standing desk in his living room and looking out the window, Owens had a eureka moment. A dog treat machine!

He repurposed an old gumball machine he found online and turned it into a machine that dispenses dog treats.

Since the dispenser appeared in Owen’s front garden, it’s been the talk of the neighborhood. Pet owners from around Nashville visit the area just to try his genius invention.

Oh, and the dogs love it too. Often a hive of activity outside the home, Owen also set up a GoPro so he doesn’t miss out on adorable puppy action.

If you plan on treating your pup to Owen’s machine, don’t forget to take a quarter. The home is located on Riverwood Circle, East Nashville.

#2. Visit a Bookstore Roaming with Pups

This is by far our favorite thing to do in Music City. Ann Patchett owns Parnassus Books in Green Hills. Most of her customers spend the day loitering around but she doesn’t mind.

She doesn’t think the other visitors mind too. It’s not unusual to see puppies accompanying their owners while roaming the independent bookstore.

Patchett tells News Channel 5 Nashville her shop’s a great place to hang out and pet a dog. The store’s become such a huge social media hit, that she’s constantly updating their account with what the dogs are up to.

At one time there can be four to six dogs in the store, all belonging to staff members. However, Patchett encourages pet owners to bring their pooches as well.

Parnassus Books can be found at 3900 Hillsboro Pike in Nashville.

#3. Dogs in the Wild

Urban Dog Bar is Nashville’s first off-leash dog park, bar and restaurant. It features a 15,500-square-foot outdoor park and 5,000 square foot indoor area with restrooms, TVs and seating areas.

Owners Austin and Rebecca Gauthier say the establishment is free for humans and dogs. The only requirements are that your dog’s vaccinations are up to date and they have a friendly temperament.

Located at The Nations, Urban Dog Bar is a safe space for your pups to run wild and socialize with other four-legged friends. Don’t worry, pet parents are also taken care of. Trivia nights and live weekend entertainment allow you to connect with friends and fellow dog lovers.

Pet families can be signed up for daily, monthly or annual membership passes.

No Dog Gets Left Behind

Nashville is also home to several dog parks. Free for use and accessible to the public, all the parks function under the same rules.

Off-leash dog parks include Warner Dog Park, Shelby Dog Park and Centennial Park. The surrounding areas have pet-friendly parks, just ensure your pup is on a leash at all times.

So, when you find yourself in Nashville with your doggies, visit one or all of these unique places. They’ll love you for it. Here’s to making memories in Nashville!