May is every animal lover’s favorite month as they celebrate furry or feathery friends for National Pet Month! For residents of Ryan’s Crossing, spoiling those squishy family members is quite simple with loads of pet-friendly activities and businesses just around the corner. Pittsboro has always been known for its small-town charm, but the many open-paw policies, make it even more appealing. Whether you prefer a parrot on your shoulder, toting a cat in an open-air carrier, or walking with a leashed dog by your side, there is something enjoyable just around the corner.
- Is your dog ready to run? Head over to one of the recommended off-leash dog parks found on Bring Fido. Visit Chapel Hill’s Southern Community Dog Park, the Apex Nature Dog Park, or Durham’s Piney Wood Dog Park. For those wanting to hit the open road with their favorite woofer, tap into the Bring Fido database for pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities nationwide.
- For those wishing to hike, the Pittsboro area is packed with trails that welcome leashed dogs. North Carolina’s State Parks appreciate sharing nature with four-legged friends, including Jordan Lake. Fit your four-legged friend with a canine life vest for a quick dip in cool waters post-hike!
- If your pet is a true water bug, why not try a kayak or canoe for two? Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co welcomes pets to play co-pilot in water rentals. Whether a first-time paddler or an experienced floater, Haw River has an option. From self-guided tours to instructor lead courses to group adventures, a trip on the Haw River will guarantee memories for owners and pets alike.
- If it’s baseball season, then the Durham Bulls Athletic Park has gone to the dogs. There are five more Bark in the Park games on the Bulls’ schedule – a perfect opportunity for a unique date with your best friend. Dogs will need to be leashed and purchase their own ticket (perhaps with a little help). Proceeds will be donated to Second Chance Pet Adoptions, the Triangle’s oldest no-kill shelter. Second Chance will have dozens of volunteers on hand to sit with pets should owners need a quick break.
- Just like people, not every pet is seeking the next big pursuit. Perhaps a lazy afternoon chatting with friends is the speed your pet prefers. Spend some time at Bynum Front Porch listening to live music or storytelling. Art shows are also a favorite at this repurposed general store that thrives on giving back to the local community.
- Fearrington Village, just around the corner from Pittsboro, is full of beautiful walking paths, boutiques, and restaurants – all pet-friendly. Even the Fearrington House Inn offers pet-friendly accommodations for those who cannot imagine a night away from their favorite furry pals.
- Of course, not everyone is able to own a pet, but that doesn’t mean they cannot celebrate the wonder of animals.
- Carolina Tiger Rescue offers an amazing experience for animal lovers through guided tours of its educational facility. This big-animal rescue is focused on conservation and protecting wild cats.
- Chatham Animal Rescue has opportunities to adopt, foster, and volunteer year-round. Perhaps time is limited in your home, making pet ownership impossible. Dedicate some time to an adoption event, returning phone calls, or a fundraising effort. This is an amazing way to promote the safety and wellness of animals in the local area. Check out this rescue today!
For residents of Ryan’s Crossing, the surrounding community offers endless opportunities to celebrate National Pet Month. You might even say Pittsboro has gone to the dogs! And isn’t that just purrfect?