Summer in St. John, Indiana is perfect for pet lovers looking to enjoy the outdoors with their four-legged companions. A mix of scenic parks, pet-friendly establishments, and nearby destinations guarantee plenty of tail wags. Make the most of the warm weather this year, and don’t forget to pack the essentials for on-the-go comfort and safety.  

Road Trips Are a Fantastic Summer Activity

Road trips are a blast for you and your pet. You can either choose to stay within a couple hours or drive even further. I love to take my pups to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. My favorite place to go is to a resort called The Ridge. They have everything and they are super pet friendly. They even have 2 dog parks. There are so many things to do in Gatlinburg. My dogs really enjoy hiking there!

One challenge though is combating car sickness. Ria gets car sick, so we try to feed a bigger meal at the end of the day when we're done driving and a small amount in the morning to go with her calmers and some ginger capsules to help with nausea.

Turkey Run State Park is also another fantastic destination with plenty of dog-friendly hiking trails. For something overnight, Mackinac Island in Northern Michigan has plenty of trails and wonderful suites to stay in. The easiest way to get there is via Ferry which is dog-friendly if on a leash. One thing to keep in mind for road trips is in-vehicle safety. Try out pet safe seat belts, dividers, or crates while having extra towels, water to make the journey more pleasant for your pet.

Dine & Relax at Pet-Friendly Patios

Take a break from adventuring and enjoy a meal together at a dog-friendly restaurant. Spots like Bedarra Bar in Crown Point feature pet-welcoming outdoor patios perfect for a summer brunch or casual drink. These settings are ideal for pets who do well in public environments and owners who appreciate dining with their best friend by their side. Another great location to try out is Fuzzyline Brewing Co in Highland. For drinks, they offer a wide variety of beers, such as IPAs, stouts and lagers. Try their brunch burger, deviled egg cheese dip, winter salad or sourdough pizza for food.  

Local Activities for a Quick Day Trip

You don’t have to travel far to find fun and exciting activities for you and your pup to enjoy. Gabis Arboretum & Gardens in Valparaiso, IN is a pet friendly arboretum a part of Purdue Northwest University.

Another Hungry Hound team favorite is Diana of the Dunes Dare. This pet-friendly hiking challenge follows the path of Chicago native Alice Mabel Gray, who left behind a career in the U.S. Naval Observatory to live in what is now Indiana Dunes National Park. This unusual lifestyle earned Alice the nickname Diana of the Dunes. Dogs are allowed as you follow in Diana's footsteps, but dogs must be kept on a leash
  

Travel-Friendly Products & Summer Necessities

No matter where your summer plans take you, ensure you have these handy essentials on board:  

  • Portable collapsible bowls: Keep your dog hydrated, especially during longer walks or hikes. Put a carabiner on your travel water bowl and attach it to your dog's leash.  They will need water and most dogs won't drink very well from a bottle.  You can also use that bowl for other things, like scooping something up, if absolutely necessary.  I've loaned my travel bowl to quite a few other hikers who forgot theirs.  

  • Freeze dried food is a must for travel. It offers a tasty meal without sacrificing your pet’s nutrition. It’s also super lightweight, allowing you to take it anywhere with ease. Bonus: Rehydrate your freeze dried food with bone broth for added nutrition and gut health.   

  • Lickmats: Great for stress relief and entertainment, especially when pets need a calming distraction at outdoor restaurants or campsites. If frozen, lickmats will also help cool your pets down.  

  • Travel-friendly treats and waste bags: Always bring more than you think you’ll need. When out on a trail, treats can be a great distraction when you encounter a surprise.   

  • Harness that has been tested and quality. At our locations, we have Two Hounds Harnesses that can withstand up to 1500 lbs of pull for increased durability and peace of mind.  

  • Shade cover or umbrella: Essential for picnics, rest stops, and ensuring your pet always has a cool place to escape the sun.  

   

Make this summer memorable by exploring everything St. John, the Northwest Indiana region, and beyond.