The 5 Best Pet-Friendly Events In San Antonio

Home to the Alamo, San Antonio is the second most populous city in Texas. Visitors can enjoy San Antonio’s thriving downtown scene, take in a San Antonio Spurs game, or even explore the Natural Bridge Caverns. The city has a plethora of museums, gardens, and zoos to choose from. But, what about pet-friendly event in San Antonio?

If you’re new to the city, or maybe you’re just visiting temporarily, and you come equipped with a furry (or scaly) companion, then you might want to check out some of San Antonio’s best pet-friendly events. Here, we’ll take a look a some of the funnest, best loved of all the pet-friendly events in San Antonio. 

Keep reading to find out just what you and your canine companion can get up to in this incredible city!

Dachtoberfest 

Taking place every November, Dachtoberfest just might be the best kind of doggo race: a race among dachshunds. That’s right: Dachtoberfest is a dachshund race, organized annually by the Diamond Dachshund Rescue of Texas (DDRTX). Entrants can expect to compete against other dachshunds, both young and old. The only requirement for entry into this pet friendly event in San Antonio is that your dog be at least part dachshund. 

But, Dachtoberfest isn’t just about the long-dog races, it’s also about family, fun, and awareness. DDRTX aims to educate everyone on responsible pet ownership, particularly when it comes to dachshunds. They also rescue and rehabilitate dachshunds all over the state. So, this November, gear up and head out to Dachtoberfest (even if you’re dachshund-less) to watch the one-of-a-kind dachshund races!

Trails Fur Tails 5K

Organized by the volunteer run Alamo Area Partners for Animal Welfare (AAPAW), this 5K directly benefits pets in need. Occurring annually in the fall, San Antonio’s own Trails Fur Tails 5K is both dog and family friendly. But, racing isn’t the only thing happening at this pet-friendly event in San Antonio—there are also adoptable pets on sight!

So, if you’re in the mood for some running, live music, food, games, photo opportunities, and more, check out the Trails Fur Tails 5K! The AAPAW provides funding for veterinary care and support to various animal rescue groups in and around San Antonio. So, not only will you have a fun, dog-filled day, you’ll get to help pets in need!

First Day Hikes – “Walkies”

Taking place on the first day of the new year (January 1st) this pet-friendly event in San Antonio combines the best of two worlds. With registration, you and your dog(s) get to explore Government Canyon State Natural Area on a guided walking tour. But, there’s more! You’ll be joined by other dog-parents, as well as experts on the park’s local ecology and history.

So, if you love the outdoors, and so does your dog, check out the First Day Hikes—also known as “Walkies” at Government Canyon State Natural Area. The park lies just outside San Antonio. Worried that the hike might be too intense for you or your dog? Keep in mind that the chosen trail is 2.25 miles long, and features almost no elevation gain. Just don’t forget your water, and a bowl for your doggo!

Doggie Days at Chicken N Pickle

Have you ever wanted to play pickleball, eat chicken, and hang out with dogs? Well, on Wednesday’s at Chicken N Pickle in San Antonio, you can! Every Wednesday, this community hub hosts Doggie Days, one of the best pet-friendly events in San Antonio. Dogs are welcome from 6-9 every Wednesday at this eclectic indoor/outdoor eating, drinking, and playing venue.

But, what’s even better than bringing your dog out for a night on the town at Chicken N Pickle? Getting to choose from a wide variety of fabulous doggie product vendors of course! Doggie Days doesn’t just welcome your dog, they also welcome dog-specific vendors of all kinds. You just might want to pick up a gift or two for the dog lovers in your life while you’re at it!

Downtown Dog Market

Looking for something fun to do with your dog in San Antonio this fall? Love farmers markets? Then the Downtown Dog Market at Legacy Park might just be the perfect pet-friendly event in San Antonio for you. Happening on the third Saturday of every month in the fall, this event features free parking, and even free coffee on occasion. 

Interested in maybe adding a new furry friend to your family? The Downtown Dog Market also hosts adoptable dogs looking for homes. Or maybe you’re in the market for some new doggo toys, beds, or treats—there are also dog-centric vendors on hand! Without a doubt, the Downtown Dog Market is a must-sniff for all dogs and dog-parents in the San Antonio area!

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The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/TRAVELARIUM