BEST OF OTTAWA 2019: Place for Pets

After over 20-years writing about life in Ottawa, we think we have a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer.
In this weekly series, we’ll share our picks with you – our top hotels, live music venues, local brews, bands and more.
Check, share and discuss.
#OLMBest every week!

Feline Café (1076 Wellington St. W.)

This café is a great place to come for coffee and a good cause. The concept of this cozy, little place is a “cat lounge,” so while you enjoy a satisfying cup of java and a baked good, you can also hang out with some adorable cats! What makes this place so great is that all the cats in the lounge are foster pets seeking adoption. So, if you connect with one of the cute kitties, don’t hesitate to talk to one of the employees about their adoption process.

The Ruff House (800 Industrial Ave., Unit #16)

Ruff House is a great 2-in-1 business, doubling as both a groomer and doggy daycare/hotel service! Located in a spacious and clean facility, whether you leave your dog there for a day or a week, you can rest assured that they’ll be comfortable and happy. Prices are reasonable and the staff is highly professional, putting the dogs’ safety and wellbeing at the top of everything they do. If you’re missing your pup while on vacation, you can watch the camera feed on their website to see what your furry friend is up to.

Hampton Park Dog Run (Trans-Canada Hwy)

Spend a summer day at Hampton Park! This spacious dog park has trails, tons of green space, and is fully enclosed so you can let your dog go off-leash and not worry about them running into the street. Great place for both you and your furry friend to get some exercise and for your dog to meet some furry friends!

Pet Circus (274 Bank St.)

With almost 40 years of being in business, Pet Circus is arguably one of Ottawa’s most beloved and established pet supply stores. This family-owned shop carries a wide range of pet accessories, supplies, and food for not only cats and dogs, but also amphibians, reptiles, birds and fish. The staff has a deep love for and care for animals and are super friendly, so stop by the next time you need to grab something for your pet!

The Pampered Pet (2446 Bank St.)

This pet boutique, located on Bank Street, specializes in all-natural dry food for dogs, cats and pocket pets. You can even pick up a brand-new pet – they sell small birds and reptiles, including lizards, snakes, and chameleons. They also feature a frequent shopper loyalty program, as well as grooming services and walk-in nail trims.

Conroy Pit (Conroy Rd.)

Conroy Pit is pretty much dog heaven. This path way and large clearing is one of the city’s most popular dog parks. Dogs can run around unleashed here, so it’s the perfect place for you and your pet to get some fresh air and exercise. This place is really rural, with no busy streets or residential areas around, so you don’t have to worry about your dog’s safety.

Cricket & Company (21 Murray St.)

Cricket & Company is your go-to spot if you’re looking for high quality pet food and supplies. They have a vast selection of organic raw food, dry food and various supplements for both cats and dogs. Also, we bet your pup won’t be able to resist their selection of bones and natural chews! The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and ready to assist you with any questions.

Barrkhaven Pet Boutique & Spaw (4100 Strandherd Dr., Unit #104)

Your furry friend will love you forever if you treat them to a day at Barrkhaven! Not only is it a boutique of high quality pet food and supplies, but they also offer really well-price grooming services. Whether your dog needs an emergency skunk bath or your long-haired cat is due for a good groom, you will not be disappointed by their fast and professional service.

Tech Wall Dog Park (551-575 Laurier Ave. W.)

This fenced-in dog park is located downtown, so it is perfect for the busy, city dog owner who doesn’t have access to a lot of green space for their furry friend to freely run around. It’s a great place for you and your dog to socialize with others, and the colourful and cool street art on the wall makes for an awesome selfie background for you and your pup!

Bruce Pit (175 Cedarview Rd.)

Bruce Pit is another dog park ideal for you and your dog to run around or even just chill out at after a busy work week. The park is a green clearing with a pond and surrounded by trees, so it is a lovely place to get away from the busy and loud city for a couple hours. Let your dog roam and run free while you sit on one of the benches with a snack and a good book. There are also handy poop bag disposal stations and a human restroom to ensure your visit is comfortable.