Take a Shaded, Hydrated Hike
Even when the heat is up and the sun is beating, there are ways to burn some energy without scorching any paws. Concord boasts a plethora of wooded walking & hiking trails that can keep the sun away and prevent scorched paws on the pavement. Don’t forget to bring plenty of fluids for yourself and your pet.
🐾 Poppy’s Recommendation: Try the Jim Hill Riverwalk—the terrain is relatively flat for a hot day and there are several spots for jumping in the water, cooling off, and grabbing a drink.
Go Shopping!
Downtown Concord is home to a bounty of unique boutiques, and several welcome dogs. Try out local favorites like Gibson’s Bookstore or Lilise Designer Resale. Plenty of businesses leave out doggy bowls with water on warmer days, too. Don’t miss the Concord Farmers Market that runs on Saturdays all summer and early fall to stock up on everything from local produce to dog treats (and yes, they have samples)! If you’re at the South End, Blue Seal carries everything from dog food to treats.
🐾 Poppy’s Recommendation: Sandy’s Pet Food by the airport is a dog’s dream; there are treats aplenty, things to sniff, and options galore.
Stop by a Park
Concord’s parks offer a safe place for dogs to play while offering respite from hot pavement. White Park, right by downtown, features meandering paths, places to sit, and a pond with ducks. The South End’s Rollins Park has a gazebo, paved walking paths, and a large playground.
🐾 Poppy’s Recommendation: Terrill Dog Park is a dedicated dog park stationed right by the Merrimack River—and a great place to meet new friends!
Dine Al Fresco
During the summer season, Concord’s local restaurants and eateries open up outdoor dining, and dogs are often welcome. Our friends at Intown Concord compiled a list of dog-friendly downtown businesses and restaurants.
🐾 Poppy’s Recommendation: Twelve 31 Café offers a selection of delicious bites and dog treats too!
Check out the SPCA
The Pope Memorial SPCA is always offering community events, vaccination clinics, pet therapies, and other engaging activities. Keep up with them to see what summer fun they have planned!
🐾 Poppy’s Recommendation: Check out the SPCA’s volunteering opportunities, or donate to their Pet Food Pantry to give back to Concord’s pet community.
Although Concord benefits from New England’s temperate summers, there are always times where the heat really cranks up. Be sure to stay hydrated, be mindful of surface heat—especially hot pavement—and make the most of the Dog Days of summer!