Activities For Dogs In Oregon On Hot Days
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Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
Ahh, Oregon. Alis Volat Propriis. She flies with her own wings. Sandwiched in between California and Washington, "she" has to, as Oregon is often forgotten by those who have never been, even though it is equally as gorgeous as all neighboring states, shares the same shorelines and mountain ranges, and even has a similar socio-political landscape. Best of all, it is just as equally dog-friendly, boasting tons of dog-accessible parks, businesses, and places of interest, all primed for its temperate weather year-round. It still gets hot in summer months, boasting average highs of 75 F or above in June through September, which means there are plenty of dog days to dig your way out of. But thanks to this handy list, it shouldn't be a problem, as we're here to bring you the best of Oregon's hot-weather activities, all on a silver (dog) platter.
Bob Wenger Memorial Spray Park
Popular
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Hot Day
Free
Easy
20 - 120 min
Items needed
Leash
Dog Bags
Towels
Activity description
No matter where you are in Oregon, chances are if you are anywhere near civilization, there will be a dog park nearby that you can visit. But when the weather gets hot, there is one particular park that should receive extra attention, and for good reason: Bob Wenger Memorial Spray Park at Pine Nursery Park. Not only is it a great off-leash space to run and play, but it boasts several hydrant-shaped features that spray cool water out of them to help keep you and your dog cool. Plus, it's located right near the Deschutes River, which is another great spot to take a dip if either of you need to cool off. It's free outside of basic dog park registration and fees, will be a great way to stay cool in the hot sun, and gives you both something to do for a short time or several hours if you so choose.
Step
1
Quick prep
Unless you live across the state, this one doesn't take all that much preparation. All you really need to do is check the operating hours, make sure all your tags and paperwork are in line, any necessary dog park fees are paid, and you are close to being on your way. We suggest bringing some towels and at least dressing in clothing you don't mind getting wet, if not a swimsuit so you can get soaked if it gets too hot. Just make sure to bring a leash for areas that are not designated as off-leash, as well as dog bags to keep the park clean and possibly some sun screen, depending on how hot and sunny it's going to be (some areas don't offer as much shade). Once you've got it all squared away, you can load your dog up and hit the road!
Step
2
Play and spray
Step two is the easy one: have some fun in the sun! Once you arrive, you'll discover that there are several different areas to check out in the park outside of the spray park itself, although that's a great place to go for a quick cool-down if you haven't committed to jumping in the river. Our best suggestion is to check out all dog-accessible areas, then stop in for a cool off, explore more and come back to hose down again. You'll be able to get wet, which will keep you cool for exploring other areas, then once you start to dry, you can go another round and keep your temperature balanced no matter how hot it gets. If it's just too hot to do that, go for a dip in the river! Given where the water is coming from, it should be perfectly cool and refreshing.
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Java Hound
Popular
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Hot Day
Cheap
Easy
15 - 30 min
Items needed
Money
Leash
Dog Bags
Activity description
If you are anywhere near Nob Hill in Portland, there's a great place that caters to both you and your pooch: Java Hound Coffee Bar. Attached to the Hip Hound, a boutique pet shop, Java Hound offers local coffee drinks, teas, as well as pastries, along with the Puppachino, a dog-friendly drink. They also host occasional events for both people and dogs, including food and drink events, creative events, and even doggy yoga. It's inexpensive, a great way to get out of the hot sun, and can be an escape for as long as you like (or as long as it's open for the day).
Step
1
Before you go
Before you head down, make sure you grab dog bags and some money so you can enjoy everything Java Hound has to offer. Also be mindful if your dog is not well socialized that this may not be the best spot for them unless it's relatively empty, which might be tough on a hot day, as many others may have the same idea. Once you're over those hurdles, you're ready to go!
Step
2
Relax and enjoy
Although there are plenty of options for you and your dog to eat and drink, make sure to try out the specialties, as they will likely be something you can't get many (if any) other places. You can either take a seat and relax with your purchases, or walk around and check out the entirety of the facility. It happens to be attached to Hip Hound, so if you get bored just sitting and sipping, you can always walk around their store, stay cool, and shop for new toys, treats, food, and other accessories.
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Pamper at the Hotel Monaco
Popular
0 Votes
Hot Day
Expensive
Easy
12 - 24 hrs
Items needed
Internet-accessible device
Packed Overnight Bags
Activity description
Sometimes it's just too hot to enjoy the great outdoors, and for those days, if you have some extra cash to spare, consider booking yourself and your dog a room at the Hotel Monaco. If it wasn't enough that there's no extra cost for bringing your barker, the hotel also greets your dog by name (including a possible reception from one of the Directors of Pet Relations), supplies complementary loaner plush pet beds, water and food dishes, mats, and courtesy bags. Plus, if the weather finally cools, the hotel supplies a full list of nearby dog-friendly parks, restaurants, groomers and other boutiques. It is certainly not cheap, but it is about as easy as can be thanks to the helpful staff. Plus, it will give you a reason to check out a new area both inside and around the neighborhood if the weather is forgiving enough.
Step
1
Pick your day
Chances are, if it's suited for a hot day, you'll likely be booking this trip only slightly in advance unless it's a destination spot for an out-of-towner. That way, you'll know when hot weather is coming and what days might be best (if not the day of). If you do plan on getting out of the hotel, do your best to plan around days when nearby businesses will be open longer and more active, so even if the hot weather keeps you inside more during the day, you'll still have cooler hours later in the afternoon and evening to get out on the town. Once you've picked an appropriate day, book your room and make sure to note that you have a dog in tow, and provide their name and any other necessary details.
Step
2
Check in and chill out
Once you arrive, you and your dog will be greeted (and possibly fawned over) at the front desk. You'll be given a full slate of details and then provided the key to your room, which you can then get settled into. If it's too hot, you can always hang out in your room and play with dog toys, relax and watch TV, or even get out and tour the beautifully-decorated and designed hotel. If the weather isn't too hot, you can check in with the concierge and see what dog-friendly establishments are nearby for the pair of you to check out.
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More Fun Ideas...
Paws in the Falls
Both Ramona Falls and Dillon Falls offer cool running water, falls, and pools to play in and the latter of the two does allow dogs to be off leash as long as they are in or close to the water. Of course, having the shade of nearby trees doesn't hurt either.
Enjoy Some Doggy Ice Cream
Because of Oregon's (and specifically, Portland's) universal dog-friendly vibes, numerous eateries have opened up in various cities across the state that offer dog-tailored menu items such as Tin Shed's peanut butter-banana ice cream and Groaning Board's yogurt-based peanut butter dessert and salt-less dog burger and fries combo.
Conclusion
Whether it's too hot or just hot enough, there are certainly still plenty of things you can do with your dog in Oregon, both inside and out, no matter if you're hungry, thirsty, tired, energetic or just plain looking for some fun. Feel free to use our list to get inspired to check out new "hot" spots, in the city or out, and do your best to enjoy the beauty of Oregon with your hopefully not-too-hot dog.