Dog walking, canine cruises, doggie daycare, dog parks, dog agility: Alexandria, Virginia, offers it all, and plenty more!
The city is consistently ranked by publications such as Rover, Expedia, Tripadvisor, and Redfin as one of the most pet-friendly cities in the country. In fact, Bringfido.com says there are 95 dog friendly restaurants scattered throughout Alexandria.
Take heart, pet lovers; this town is filled with all of the amenities you’ll need to take care of your pet at home and while away. There is a resource for everything you’ll need, from the basics, like veterinary care, to the up and up, like yappy hours.
You’ll even find bowls of dog water and treat bins lining Old Town streets. Attached to this goodness, however, are high prices. There is no shortage of services, but expect to pay premiums for convenience and quality care. These are some of the top picks within the area which have plenty of customer feedback documented, which helps sift through some of the options. But, plan on doing your own research before buying or hiring services.
Pet Adoption in Alexandria
If moving to Alexandria means you'll be settling down for a while, it might be the perfect time to adopt an animal in need. Check in with:
- Humane Society of Fairfax County
- Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is a beloved institution. Not only do they adopt out animals, they have community engagement programs that teach training and how to handle difficult behaviors.
Alexandria Pet Groomers
DIY, simple washes, or full grooming selections are available at various price points. Here are a few:
- VIP Pet Salon
- Woof Gang
- Pet Supplies Plus
- Pretty Pets
- From Head to Tail
- Wag & Brew encourages the whole family to hang out while your pup is groomed. There’s coffee, wine, and beer while you wait.
Pet Boarding and Daycare
Boarding and daycare are among the priciest services in Alexandria. People often try to find a favorite individual through national companies like Rover or Care.com to alleviate cost, such as:
- Your Dog’s Best Friends
- Reserved Barking
- A Dog’s Day Out
- Bed & Biscuits (attached to Hometown Veterinary Clinic for extra peace of mind while you travel)
Did you know Alexandria has its own Amtrak station? Check out Train Travel with Pets: An Amtrak Update for details about traveling with your pet.
Alexandria Veterinarians
Customers are exceptionally dedicated to their vet once they’ve found the perfect fit. These offices are scattered throughout Alexandria and have loyal followings:
- Del Ray Animal Hospital
- Hayfield Animal Hospital
- Fort Hunt Animal Hospital
- Belle Haven Animal Medical Center
- Caring Hands Animal Hospital
- VCA Alexandria (two locations)
Alexandria Dog Walkers
If you can’t find an individual you trust, try one of these companies who specialize in dog walks:
- Becky’s Pet Care
- Alexandria Pet Care
- Fairy Dog Mom
- Run My Dog not only provides walking services, but runs dogs who need to burn more energy.
Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Alexandria
Finding a dog-friendly restaurant is as easy as it comes. Expect patio seating, with some tables designated for dogs on a leash. Try these local spots:
- Lost Dog Cafe
- Southside 815
- Haute Dogs & Fries
- The Dairy Godmother is a beloved custard shop, but also known for their puppy pops.
Alexandria Activities and Shops that Welcome Pets
There's no reason to leave your dog at home! Alexandria has dozens of locations that look forward to your pet’s visit:
- The Dog Park (boutique)
- George Washington’s Mount Vernon
- Frolick Dogs (agility)
- Sit Means Sit (training)
- Yappy Hour at Barks, Brews & Bites (Thursdays at Jackson 20)
- The Potomac Riverboat Company has regularly scheduled 45-minute canine cruises available.
Alexandria Dog Parks and Trails
Take note before setting out with your pooch--dogs require licensing in both the City of Alexandria and Alexandria, Fairfax County.
- City of Alexandria: dogs can be off lease in Potomac Yard, Simpson Stadium Park, Duke Street, Montgomery Park, Dog Run Park, Ben Brenman Park.
- Fairfax County off leash: Westgrove, Lenclair Park, Grist Mill.
- George Washington Parkway trail, part of the National Park System, requires leashed dogs.
For more fun events, recommendations, and general information about pet ownership, NOVA Dog Magazine is a useful source. You can read online or copies are regularly found in dog-friendly businesses, especially veterinarians’ offices.
If you want them, pet-friendly businesses are common in Alexandria. You’ll just have to meet your perfect match. Your friends and neighbors will be quick to talk up their favorite vendors, so just put the word out, and you’ll find plenty of recommendations.