Living in New Jersey, you know that good weather means a great time for you and your pet. From hiking to swimming, or just enjoy the sunshine, there are tons of local places you can visit with your furry friend. Read on for a list of places to go for a dog-friendly day trip — including beaches and other parks that allow dogs in New Jersey.
How to Pack Your Bags
- – Bring water for you and your dog — and lots of it.
Tip: Do not give your dog ice water if it’s very hot. It can send your pup into shock.
- – Get sunblock for you and your dog.
Yes, dogs get sunburnt too.
- – Pack the poop bags.
Because cleaning up after your pet is a must wherever you go {ah-hem, Hoboken}.
- – Grab an extra leash.
One could break by getting caught on something while walking or from being damaged by the water your dog’s swimming in, other pets, etc.
- – Buy a tick key or tick twister.
Removing ticks is tricky because you want to make sure you get all of its legs. A tick key or the tick twister are great, easy-to-use tools to safely and completely remove ticks off you and your pet.
- – Include towels and wipes.
These aren’t just for cleaning — if your dog overheats put cool water on a towel and wrap it loosely around its neck
Read More: Here’s Where You Can Shop for Your Pets in Hoboken + Jersey City
How to Make Sure Your Pet is Safe + Sound While Traveling/Outdoors
There are several things to watch out for while you’re traveling or playing with your pet outdoors.
Overheating and dehydration
- – Some warning signs include: Fast breathing, excessive panting, vomiting, diarrhea, collapsing
If you see any of these signs, put a cool, wet towel around your dog’s neck and contact your vet ASAP.
Ticks
- – Although many dogs receive flea/tick treatment, ticks can and will still latch onto your pets.
- – Examine your dog all over frequently. If you see a tick, do not pull it off with your bare hands. Instead, use a tick key or a tick twister to safely and effectively remove the tick. If you fear your dog has been bitten or that the tick is one of the species that carry Lyme Disease, contact your vet immediately.
Beaches That Allow Dogs
Asbury Park
The 8th Avenue Dog Beach
This dog-friendly beach allows licensed, non-aggressive dogs with adult supervision. Make sure not to bring your dog if he/she is in heat. Dogs may be off-leash but need to be controlled.
Wonder Bar Yappy Hour
Wonder Bar hosts a fun happy hour for dogs and alike! It’s open seven days a week.
Manasquan
Fisherman’s Cove
Fisherman’s Cove Park opens at 7AM daily, year-round. Dogs must be leashed, and are allowed on the front, east portion of the beach but not the back, west portion.
Ocean County
Island Beach Park
Island Beach Park’s main gate is typically open from 8 AM – 8PM. During summer weekends and holidays the park opens at 7AM. Dogs must be kept on a six-foot-or-less length leash and cannot go on the swimming beach during the summer season. Dogs also cannot go on the Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail.
Sandy Hook
Gateway National Park at Sandy Hook
The Gateway is located on the Inlet side of the Hook. Dogs must be leashed and cannot go on the eastern or Atlantic shore.
See More: A List of Dog-Friendly Places in Hoboken
Places to Take a Hike with Your Dog
Jersey City
- – Liberty State Park is open from 6AM to 10PM daily. Dogs must be leashed.
- – The Jersey City Reservoir is open Saturdays from 10AM to 3PM, weather permitting. Dogs must be leashed.
Essex County
South Mountain Reservation
- – Dogs must be leashed except in the dog park. Visit the Essex County Parks website for dog park rules and regulations.
Long Valley
- – Hacklebarney State Park is open from dawn until dusk. Dogs must be leashed.
