In the southern part of beautiful, technologically savvy, Santa Clara County, Gilroy, California is known as the Garlic Capital of the World. The town is a main producer of garlic, and has a garlic festival every year where they feature garlic-flavored foods that even includes garlic ice cream! The city, which was founded in 1870, is at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains and was named after a Scotsman, John Gilroy, who married the daughter of a wealthy rancher he was employed by. The family owned many dogs, and now the town of approximately 51,700 people own an estimated 11,613 dogs. This means you should bring Fido when you visit because there are many dog-friendly places in town.
Morgan Dog Park on West Edmundson is the favorite for the local pups. There are separate sides for large and small dogs, double-gates for safety, lots of water buckets and dog toys everywhere, shade trees and benches galore, and right outside the park is a lake with ducks where you and the pup can hang out and chill out a bit before getting back in the car. There are always a lot of friendly dog owners and fun-loving dogs.
Gilroy Dog Park on Mantelli Drive is separated for big and small dogs and has about two acres of open area to run and play on. With a fountain, dog toys, poop bag dispensers, natural gravel so no mud and lots of benches and shade trees. The park outside has a playground, tennis courts, skate park, picnic tables, horseshoes, hiking trails, ball fields, BBQ areas, and restrooms.
Looking for a great place to spend your day with your pooch in Gilroy? Look no further than Gilroy Dog Park, tucked away inside the 23-acre Las Animas Veterans’ Park. The dog park, which used to be a pond, is spacious, with plenty of room for pets and owners. There are some trees to provide shade after a long day or quick run. This dog park is completely closed in with fencing which allows your furry friend to run free off his leash. This park is also divided into two sections for large and small dogs. Have a wander down by the West Branch Llagas Creek after a long day of play -- just make sure to keep your pawesome pal on his leash when venturing into other areas of the park.
Want to pamper your pooch? Stop by the Pet Smart in Camino Arroyo in Gilroy. This Pet Smart has a great grooming team that will take excellent care of your dog. The grooming salons are open 7 days a week for your convenience. Not only can your pet look healthy and happy, but if need any type of supplies for your pup, this is a one-stop shop. You can get dog food or even purchase a new toy for your pup to play with. This Pet Smart also offers behavior training for your pet as well. If Fido’s been a good boy, stop by Starbucks to treat him to a small cup of whipped cream. The baristas will just love fussing over your furry friend.
If you want to hit the trails with your pooch while you’re in Gilroy, don’t forget to stop by the Mount Madonna County Park, just a 30-minute drive from Gilroy. This park is one of the most majestic sites you can explore with your fantastic furr-end in Gilroy. The park is filled with beautiful redwood trees, which provide much-needed shade on a sunny California day. Within the 3,688 acres, there are several trails that cover a 14-mile radius. This is one of the biggest parks in Santa Clara County. After a visit, your pup will be so tired he’ll make everyone wonder why they ever called it a “cat nap.”
Fancy a little bit of shopping? Gilroy Premium Outlets, located on Leavesley Road in Gilroy, has got you, and your pup, covered. There are 145 amazing stores to choose from. The outlet allows you to bring your pup with you as long as they stay leashed. You may want to check with individual stores about their pet policies. Your pawesome pal might not be able to give you an opinion on that outfit you want to try on, but he’ll certainly love coming along for the shopping spree. Afterward, you can stop by In-N-Out Burger for a quick bite. Your dog is welcome as long as he stays on a leash. They’ll even give him a cute hat! New outfits for everyone.