Pet lovers rejoice! A visit to Sanford, NC doesn’t necessarily mean you have to leave your fur babies behind. There are a number of pet-friendly places and spaces here that will make you and them feel right at home.
Pet-Friendly Restaurants
Many North Carolina restaurants offering outdoor dining or patio seating also allow guests and their pets to enjoy themselves in these spaces. The town of Sanford is no exception. Take for example Smoke and Barrel – the unique gastropub serving up great food, drinks, live music and plenty of good cheer. Dogs make regular appearances at this restaurant’s pet-friendly, outdoor tables while their owners enjoy some of the finest smoked meats, southern sides and NC craft beers around.
Speaking of craft beer, Hugger Mugger Brewing is another great spot to visit, not just for the brews, but also for their outdoor beer garden where food trucks regularly set up shop. While all furry friends are welcome to lounge outside, only tagged service animals are allowed inside the brewery building.
If you’re in the mood for some Neapolitan pizza made with the freshest ingredients, dine al fresco over at La Dolce Vita Pizzeria. While there, your pooch has the chance to be featured as one of the “Pups of LDV” on the restaurant’s Facebook page.
Pet-Friendly Lodging
Lodging your pet while enjoying an overnight stay in Sanford is as easy as booking a hotel reservation at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites. Both you and your four-legged friend will enjoy warm hospitality and great amenities which include a dedicated pet walking area on-site. Additional lodging fees may apply, so be sure to verify at time of booking.
Pet-Friendly Attractions & Activities
A visit to the pet-friendly parks in the area offers the chance to spend the day with your pet and appreciate local, natural beauty at the same time. For example, you can unleash your pooch at the Lee County Dog Park to run, frolic and play with other dogs for hours on end. Besides two large, fenced-in dog runs and a watering station, the park boasts adequate shade and seating so owners can comfortably catch all the canine action.
Does your pet love nature trails as much as you do? Then, explore the 275 acres of pristine beauty that is White Pines Nature Preserve. Trails here meander along the Deep and Rocky Rivers and hikers have observed all manner of native plants and wildlife.
If that’s not enough park for you, swing by San Lee Park where you can hike, bike, canoe, camp and more. When visiting here or at White Pines Nature Preserve, you’ll want to keep your pet leashed for their protection and that of fellow park goers.
Pet-Friendly Shops & Businesses
Whether you’re shopping for supplies, gifts or care services for your pet, Sanford has you covered on all fronts. Looking to pamper your puppy with a day at the spa? Book her or him an appointment over at Simple Dog Co. Pet Spa. One-on-one pet grooming at the spa includes services like nail trims, baths, de-sheds and full grooms. You can also shop handmade pet collars as well as pet-themed hats and t-shirts, both online and in store.
For another great option for supplies, head over to Carolina Town & Country. Known as the “Best Feed Store in Town,” both locals and visitors stop here to not only shop, but also visit, hold and even buy live animals housed at the store. We’re talking everything from kittens, puppies and parakeets to horses, potbelly pigs and peacocks. It’s a regular zoo, but in the most delightful way.
Finally, while Sanford does offer a lot in the way of pet-friendly spots, there some experiences here best enjoyed without your furry friends in tow. In those situations, a local pet daycare might be just the solution you need.
Rae-zor Grooming, Boarding & Daycare prides themselves on keeping your dog safe, healthy and happy while you’re away. Taking a holistic approach to pet care, Rae-zor GBD provides their guests with healthy food and treats, relevant training and a fun, playful environment. Your pet is also under the watchful eye of friendly staff always on site as well as the facility’s 17 security cameras.
Dog Spoiling Dog Boarding and Day Care can also be home away from home for travel companions. Rest easy as your fur baby enjoys a fenced-in yard with plenty of room to run and play, a doggy playroom with loads of toys and treats and a family of caretakers who eagerly and happily love on all their tail-wagging guests. Owners will also appreciate Spoiling Dog’s affordable boarding rates and flexible pick-up and drop-off times.
