In the final installment of the series “A Perfect Summer Day,” the RoundTable has not forgotten the furry, tail-wagging members of the community. Dogs are loyal friends, devoted to their owners, and it only seems fair that they get a special day, too.
Morning
Let Them Be Free
Dogs and their owners can start the day at Evanston’s Dog Beach, located north of the Church Street boat launch facility at 1631 Sheridan Road. The beach is open between May 1 and Oct. 31. Owners must have a dog beach pass to be admitted. Passes cost $50 per dog for Evanston residents and can be purchased at the Evanston Recreation Division, 2100 Ridge Ave, or an application can be downloaded at www.cityofevanston.org/dogbeach and returned by mail.
Pooch Park
If sand and water are not pup’s idea of a good time, then maybe a park is more like it. The Skokie Park District and City of Evanston have jointly developed a 2.7-acre off-leash, fenced-in dog recreational facility. In this area on the east bank of the North Shore Channel, between Main and Oakton, dogs can run wild with their canine friends. The park has a separate agility area and even a space designated just for puppies and small dogs. Drinking fountains for both people and dogs are provided. Membership fees are $40 for the first dog, $10 for each additional dog. For rules and a list of paperwork required, dog-owners can pick up a brochure at Robert Crown Center, 1701 Main St. or visit www.cityofevanston.org.
Afternoon
Time for a Treat
Dog-owners can treat their furry friends to something special at The Happy Husky Bakery, 2601 Prairie Ave. This doggie bakery offers all-natural and nutritious pet treats made on site. This summer dogs can relax outside on the sidewalk seating area, while enjoying the new “Snow Dog Sundae.” Owner Todd Ruppenthal, who opened the store in the fall of 2008, says the pet-friendly, frozen soft-serve treat was inspired by his love of his huskies, Astaire and Ginger, who can almost always be found at the bakery welcoming visitors. Go to www.happyhuskybakery.com to learn more about specific ingredients or to custom-order treats.
Doggie Play Date
After a rest and a tasty snack, it is time for a play date. “Unleashed,” a dog daycare and training center located at 1908 W. Greenwood, offers drop-in classes every Saturday. Dog-owners can choose from a variety of classes such as “Play and Train,” an hour-long class that gives pups an opportunity for social play and exercise while practicing basic obedience behaviors at the same time. Owner Becky Trisko, currently working on a Ph.D. on canine social behaviors, says these classes give dogs the exercise, socialization, training and just plain fun they need to live happy and healthy lives. To find out more go to www.unleashedinevanston.com.
A Puppy Boutique
There is something for every dog at The Hungry Pup, 941 Chicago Ave. This two-story “puppy boutique” sells everything from unique toys to party dresses for dogs. The downstairs is packed with gourmet and organic pet food, including a freezer full of frozen meats. The upstairs has a bakery case full of treats that look good enough for people to eat. Husband and wife David and Ramie Gulyas opened the store five years ago as an extension of their dog-walking business. This is the perfect place to treat a dog to something special such as a free-range, all-natural buffalo chew, or a warm sweater for those cool nighttime strolls.
After this full day, the pooch will be pooped. Dog-owners and their pals can head back early for a quiet night at home. Owners can rest assured their dog will sleep well knowing he is loved and cared for.