Vacations are more fun when your furry friend can join the adventure! Bringing your dog to a pet-friendly hotel means you can enjoy quality time together while exploring new places. With the right accommodations and a little planning, Fido can feel just as relaxed and welcomed as you, making your getaway even more memorable.
Traveling with your Dog
TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH YOUR DOG
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IDENTIFICATION | Make sure your dog has a collar with a tag imprinted with their name, your name, and a phone number you can be reached at while traveling. Its a good idea to bring a recent photo as well.
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CRATING | A crate is a great way to keep your dog safe in the car and is required for airline travel. The USDA recommends a crate that is well ventilated and allows your dog to comfortably stand, sit and turn around.
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FLYING | In addition to the above suggestions, if you think your pet may become afraid, anxious or uncomfortable mid-flight ask your vet if they think your dog needs a sedative for the trip.
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DRIVING | Keep your car or crate well-ventilated. Stop often for exercise and potty breaks. Never leave your dog unattended in a closed vehicle, especially during warmer temps, and be sure to bring plenty of water!
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PACK FOR YOUR POOCH | Everyone needs to pack for vacation! Bring your dog's leash, favorite toys, blanket or pillow, disposable poop bags, food, bowls and any medications your pet needs.
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LODGING | Respect other guests, staff and the property. Try to keep your dog as quiet as possible and don't leave them unattended. Ask management where you should walk your dog and pick up after them.
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PLAN | Familiarize yourself with dog-friendly establishments, local parks and any trails or beaches that allow dogs.
DOG-FRIENDLY FUN IN WHITEFISH
DOWNTOWN WHITEFISH | Many business in downtown Whitefish are dog-friendly, especially if there is seating available outside. Nonetheless, it's still a great idea to check with specific bars, restaurants, and other businesses before your bring your four-legged friend along. Here are a few places that are fido-friendly:
- Blackstar BrewPub | 2 Central Avenue
- Bonsai Brewery | 549 Wisconsin Avenue
- Firebrand Restaurant | 650 E Third Street
- Huck's Place | 129 Central Avenue
- Montana Coffee Traders | 110 Central Aveune
- Piggyback BBQ | 102 Wisconsin Avenue
- Sweet Peaks Ice Cream | 419 E Third Street
- Tailwaggers Pet Supplies | 334 Central Avenue
CITY PARKS | All Whitefish city parks welcome leashed dogs except Whitefish City Beach. Your furry friend can also enjoy swimming off leash at designated river access sites as well as at the "Dog Beach" at Les Mason State Park and Whitefish Lake State Park.
WHITEFISH DOG PARK | Located at 121 Dodger Lane, this 5-acre playground for pooches boasts stunning mountain views with plenty of space for play including a small dog area, agility course, and pond with dog beach. Voted Top 10 Dog Park by USA Today, the park also offers fully accessible paved paths, benches, and a community pavilion.
FISH TRAILS | Whitefish has an impressive network of well maintained bicycle and pedestrian trails. A portion of the trail runs from the Riverfront Hotel along the Whitefish River between various parks. Remember Whitefish does require your dog to be leashed and that you clean up after your pet.
THE WHITEFISH TRAIL | Over 55 miles of natural-surface trails and 15 trailheads offer a variety of easy-to-locate and navigate recreation opportunities. Trails wind through beautiful forests, sweeping vistas, pristine lakes and inter-connected recreation areas -- perfect for biking, hiking and walking your dog! Dogs may be off leash, but must be under voice control.
If you're staying at the Riverfront Hotel, be sure to say hi to our hotel Assistant Branch Manager, Koda the Miniature Australian Shepherd, and ask him for his dog-friendly map of downtown Whitefish. Koda has sniffed out all the best places to take your best friend.
BEYOND WHITEFISH
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK | No visit to Montana is complete without a trip to Glacier. While dogs are not allowed on any trails in Glacier, they can still enjoy the fresh alpine air from the car window and sniff out the scenery on leash at scenic pullouts and parking areas along Going-to-the-Sun Road.
FLATHEAD NATIONAL FOREST | If you and your dog would like to hit the trail outside of Glacier National Park, there are plenty of amazing hikes throughout Flathead National Forest. Dogs are generally allowed off-leash in much of this area, though they must be under strict voice control. Montana is home to diverse wildlife, so be sure to stay aware and make noise to avoid surprise encounters while exploring.
Happy Trails!...or should we say HAPPY TAILS!!