Dog Walkers in Zilker

Located in south central Austin, Zilker is a neighborhood known for its walkable distance to downtown shops and restaurants as well as a residential haven for families looking for an area with many green spaces and good schools. If you want to take Fido shopping during your adventure, you'll find Great Outdogs, a local pet store, in the northern part of the neighborhood. In the south along South Lamar Boulevard is Barkin' Creek Dog Kitchen & Bath and Kriser's Natural Pet, two pet stores selling supplies and treats. Along the same street is Bluebonnet Animal Hospital and AM/PM Animal Hospital. 

Zilker is a unique neighborhood with plenty to discover for you and your pup. Make sure you plan ahead, though! Although Austin's climate stays warm year-round, check the forecast for storms. Plan early morning or evening walks in the summer when the sun heats up the sidewalk and can harm canine paws. 

Despite its downtown location, Zilker has a very suburban feel. During your walk, you'll stroll past many single-family homes, sprawling lawns, and tree-lined streets. The roads are very flat,  perfect for an easygoing walk with older dogs or dogs with less energy. It's important to be cautious though, because many of the streets don't have sidewalks, but cars don't pass by often, and you'll find many people still walking their dogs. 

Most of the roadways are set along quiet residential homes, but there a few busy streets to be aware of. South Lamar Boulevard runs from the north in the east to Zilker's southern border and is where you'll find most of the community's retail and dining establishments. It's a busy, four-lane road that sees a lot of traffic. When walking down South Lamar Boulevard, keep your pet on a tight leash and stay cautious when crossing the street. 

Zilker is well-known for its abundance of parks. One of the most popular is Zilker Metropolitan Park, a sprawling area to the northwest that encompasses a botanical garden and several park areas. Butler Shores and Auditorium Shores are two greenways where you will find walking paths, athletic facilities, and, best of all, scenic riverside views of Austin. There's even an off-leash park where you can let your pet run free and make friends. Just remember to clean up after them to keep the area safe for others.

Take the trail that leads west and you'll find the Zilker Botanical Garden and the Nature Preserve. You might even cross the bridge to one of the many riverside parks there where you can relax and enjoy a nice day with your pooch. Connected to the parks is the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail that follows the Barton Creek south, all the way to the Barton Creek Wilderness Park.