Activities For Dogs In Indiana On Cold Days

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Activities For Dogs In Indiana On Cold Days

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Introduction

Even if the weather is chilly in Indiana, you can still enjoy a variety of activities with your beloved pooch. Sure, you might have to bundle up and if your dog is short haired, they will benefit from a doggy jacket but getting out in the refreshingly cool air is a healthy excursion that can be a real adventure. The Hoosier state is a dog-friendly place with innumerable cities and countryside to explore with your furry sidekick by your side. If you are vacationing in the state, then be sure to make advance hotel reservations at pet-friendly lodging before embarking on your trip.

Bonneyville Mill

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Normal

2 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Water

Treats

Waste Pickup Bags

Activity description

The Bonneyville Mill in Middlebury Indiana is not open during the hard winter months, but it is open from Wednesday to Sunday from May to October, so it is a great activity to enjoy with your pet on a cold spring or fall day. The mill opened in the mid-1800s. The massive grist stones used to grind the buckwheat, rye, and corn remain and operate. In the autumn, the leaves on the trees are starting to change, and it is truly breathtaking. When spring arrives, the meadows are awash in wildflowers. It's a great place to tour with Fido.

Step

Prep for the day

Before heading out, pack a small bag with the leash, treats, water and waste pickup bags so that you are well prepared for the adventure. When you first arrive at the Bonneyville Mill you will want to put the leash on Fido. If your small dog rides in a stroller, they should still have a leash attached to their collar.

Step

Mill tour

The mill tour shows you how the grist stones function to grind the grains into flour. Cornmeal and flour are sold on a seasonal basis. Seeing the process is highly educational. Be sure to take the time to read the various historic plaques which are very informative, all the while keeping a close eye on your pup.

Step

Explore the trails

The grist mill sits on over 200 acres of pristine wilderness and meadows that offer many trails for exploring. Put on a coat and soak in the changing of the seasons with your furry side kick by your side. If it is autumn, then you will be sure to see a variety of squirrels hoarding food for the winter months. In the spring, the meadows are awash in wildflowers and if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a female deer with her baby.

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The Village at Winona

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Normal

2 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Collar

Waste Pickup Bags

Activity description

The Village at Winona was once the home of the Potawatomi Indians. In 1994, the region was completely renovated and is now a trendy district filled with art stores, restaurants, galleries, small shops, and studios. Many of the establishments welcome dogs so it is a pleasant excursion on a cold day. You and your furry friend can window shop and then duck into the warmth of one of the businesses. The art district often has activities going on, and a visit is never dull. The region sits right on Lake Winona, so there are ample biking trails, hiking trails, and picnic areas where you can soak in the beauty of the blue lake and the countryside.

Step

Trip prep

A day trip to this lovely region deserves a little prep. You may want to spend several hours there and if so, water and snacks are a necessity. Pack a jacket for both you and your furry buddy in case the weather takes a turn and colder air moves in. When you first arrive and find a parking spot it is time to leash up Fido. Pet strollers are welcome too, just be mindful of others as you maneuver the stroller around.

Step

Explore the art

It is time to explore the upscale art district. If you see a shop that you want to enter, be sure to look for a "pets welcome" sign or if you are unsure then ask the establishment's workers if they welcome dogs. Most do, but you must check beforehand. While in the shop, keep your dog right at your side. There will be time to explore outside later.

Step

Eat and rest

There are numerous restaurants throughout the district. Many welcome pets. Some have outdoor seating. Even if the weather is chilly, many restaurants place outdoor heaters on the patio for guests and their furry friends. Read your pal's signals - when they have had enough, head for home and plan to come back again another day.

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Shipshewana Flea Market

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Normal

4 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Collar

Activity description

This predominantly Amish region boasts Shipshewana Flea Market, the largest flea market in the midwest. It is open every Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 am to 5 pm. The market runs from May through September and it's a great place to explore on a cold fall or chilly spring day. There are over 900 vendors with stalls that span 100 acres. Pets are welcome in the vast flea market expanse. Some booths sell crafts, artwork, home decor, jewelry, fresh produce, furniture, and numerous other items. Every Wednesday, they hold an antique auction that has a variety of items each week for sale.

Step

Be prepared for the walk

The Shipshewana Flea Market is huge. Park as close to the entrance as possible. Leash up your pooch and start exploring, being mindful of the cars and people. If you have a dog that rides in a pet stroller, you may be wise to use it because doing so keeps your pooch from accidentally getting their paws stepped on by someone in the huge crowds.

Step

Snack booths

While exploring, you can to stop at the food booths for a snack for you and Fido. Many food booths provide water and dog biscuits for well-behaved dogs. You will find numerous tables to sit at where your dog can also lay beside you for a rest.

Step

Pet booths

One of the fun things about this flea market is that there are many vendors selling pet supplies such as leashes, collars, toys, treats, and even doggy furniture. They are fun places to stop and explore. You will probably find an item that your pooch will adore. Load up the pet stroller and head back to the car with your wares.

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More Fun Ideas...

Scottish Bed & Breakfast

Imagine a wintertime retreat with your pooch in the Scottish Bed & Breakfast in Northern Indiana. The rooms feature king and queen size beds, televisions, and a full breakfast is offered each morning. However, the best part about this bed and breakfast is that pets are welcome and adored. Your pooch can enjoy all of the amenities right beside you. Some of the rooms have fireplaces that you can curl up beside with your furry buddy on a cold wintery night. The Scottish Bed and Breakfast is a great way to get away for a weekend for a bit of rest.

Fun in Indianapolis

In the heart of Indianapolis, you will find the Indianapolis Cultural Trail which is an excellent adventure for you and your pooch even on a cold day. You can head down Fletcher Street to lovely Fountain Square. La Margarita welcomes canines if you are hungry. The walking might make you thirsty so why not grab a cold beer at the Fountain Square Brewery? On Mass Avenue, you can stop at the Three Dog Bakery for a tasty dog snack. You and your pooch can shop at the City Dogs Grocery. How about spending an hour or two at FURR where your doggy can enjoy a pad treatment or even a doggy facial? Everywhere in Indianapolis there are fun activities to enjoy.

Conclusion

Indiana spans 36,418 miles and is home to a population of 6.6 million people. The expansive state has a wide array of things to enjoy with your furry sidekick no matter what the season. Even if it's cold, you can put on a coat and enjoy the breathtaking countryside with your dog. There are dog parks, trails, and numerous other activities throughout the state. Many of the cities have businesses that welcome pets. You can dine and shop with your canine best friend by your side. If you are entering an establishment, always take the time to make sure that dogs are welcome. Undoubtedly, you will find a multitude of amusing functions to enjoy with your dog.