Colorado cities frequently make the list of best places to live, and that’s not just for humans – it’s a pretty great place for dogs, too! Despite Denver’s Breed-specific Legislation outlawing certain breeds, there are still many dog friendly events around town. If you prefer to avoid cities with BSL, Boulder has some fun things to do with your four-legged best friend, too!
Denver
1. Rocky Mountain Pet Expo
The Rocky Mountain Pet Expo is held annually in May, and has pet friendly vendors, a contest for cutest dog, a scavenger hunt, a fun fashion show, and various demonstrations.
2. Western Stock Show Fly Ball
The Denver Western Stock Show is a huge event held every January focusing on all things cow and cowboy related. It’s been going on for 110 years, and has animal auctions, rodeo performances, booths, and all kinds of shows, including SuperDogs and Fly Ball competitions. SuperDogs are 20 dogs that perform a variety of athletic feats, while the Fly Ball games are open to entry from the public.
3. Puppy Up! Denver Walk
This 2-mile walk in north Denver promotes awareness of canine cancer and fundraises for canine research.
4. Bark at the Park
Most MLB stadiums around the United States have a bring your dog to the ballpark day, and the Colorado Rockies do, too! Last year the event was in August, but details aren’t out yet for this year, so keep an eye on the website for updated information.
5. Denver Dumb Friends League Furry Scurry
Every year, hundreds of dog lovers get together to fundraise and walk for one of Denver’s biggest shelters, the Dumb Friends League. The 2-mile walk around the popular Wash Park includes vendors and fun events throughout the morning. You can also earn prizes for fundraising different amounts of money.
6. Doggie Plunge
Don’t worry – it’s nothing like the Polar Bear Plunge! The Doggie Plunge is held in the summer at a local pool. It’s really an opportunity for your dog to get some swim time (and an ice cream!), with the proceeds benefiting Freedom Service Dogs.
7. Lucky Mutt Strutt
This 5K fun run/walk benefits another local shelter, MaxFund. Besides the walk, there are vendors, prizes, food trucks, and more! It’s usually held in June, but the information isn’t posted yet for this year. Check out the MaxFund website for more information as it becomes available.
8. Denver Pet Expo
The Denver Pet Expo is held in August, and has pet-related exhibits, as well as vaccinations, free nail trims, lure chasing demos, book signings, a costume contest, and prizes!
9. Walk, Run, & Wag 5K
International Hearing Dog, Inc. hosts this annual July event at Sloan’s Lake. Not just a fundraiser, it is also to raise awareness of the deaf community, and will even provide ear plugs so you can experience the event as a hearing-impaired individual would.
Boulder
10. Scott Carpenter Pool Dog Days
For two weeks at the end of September, the Scott Carpenter Pool closes to humans and goes to the dogs! Keep an eye on the Scott Carpenter Pool website for more information as September gets closer.
11. Humane Society of Boulder Valley Doggie Dash
The Doggie Dash is a 2-mile fun run/walk around the Boulder Reservoir, held in September and benefitting the Humane Society of Boulder Valley. There is also a pet expo, demos, and pancakes for participants!
Other
In addition to the specific events, many rescues and shelters offer professional photos in exchange for a donation during just about any holiday you can think of (Halloween, Christmas, Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, etc.).
One of the reasons so many people love Colorado is because of the focus on the outdoors and on health, which means there is a road race almost every weekend (and multiple options to choose from in the summer!). Most companies allow you to bring your furry friend along for the run, but be sure to check out the race website ahead of time, and consider leaving her at home if it’s too hot or cold.
